About Nicole-
Nicole draws from many styles to guide classes that are slow, deep, and appropriately intense. Strongly influenced by the Buddhist practices of Vipassana (insight) and Metta (loving-kindness) meditation, she invites students to practice with compassionate awareness and to explore the many layers of their human experience.

Nicole has been practicing Hatha yoga since 1996, completing her first teacher training at the Sivananda Ashram in Kerala, India in 1997. In 2001, she completed her 200-hour RYT certification with Sarah Powers at Yoga Studio of Mill Valley. She founded Devi Yoga in Menlo Park in 2002 and sold the business in 2007, following the birth of her second child.

Since 2005, Nicole has studied with her long-time meditation and spiritual teacher, Jennifer Welwood, and has completed additional trainings with Sarah Powers, Erich Schiffmann, Judith Hanson Lasater, and others.

Nicole currently teaches a few public classes in Portola Valley, as well as private sessions for individuals, small groups, families, and corporations. She also leads wellness retreats in Northern California and internationally several times a year, weaving together yoga, meditation, and mindful living practices to support transformation and connection.

Testimonials

I first became a student in Nicole’s class about  1.5 years ago.  She’s competent, supportive, and warm, so I doubled down and had her work with me 1-1 at my home for almost a year.  Nicole is exceptional.  There are several components to yoga: the physical, the mental and the spiritual.  Nicole encourages me, and never makes me feel bad about my obvious weaknesses.  With her help, my journey continues.  There’s more to this yoga thing than just stretching and core strength – with the right yogini.   ~John Novitsky, Woodside, Ca. 2x US national champ, multi time state champ State champ bicycle racer

Nicole's yoga and meditation retreat is an opportunity to go deep within and discover all of your hidden, beautiful qualities and embrace your true essence. I left feeling empowered and knowing exactly what I need to do moving forward to honor and fully nourish my body and soul. Thank you Nicole! ~ Kristine, Woodside

I loved every minute of our retreat! Can't wait for the next one :) ~ Emilia, PV

Nicole knows how to create a week-end retreat that is so nourishing, calming, and enjoyable, that it feels like three weeks.  Nicole is a phenomenal yoga teacher, because she excels at engaging the spiritual and meditative qualities of yoga, in a gentle and inclusive way that encourages those of all experience levels.  I will be back! ~ Annie, Woodside

"We don't get to use the word 'transcendent' very often in our day-to-day lives, but that is the best way I can describe the experience of being with the exceptionally-talented Nicole on retreat. Whether it was her vigorous yoga sessions or the more contemplative ones....the morning meditation, long walks alone or sharing meals with new friends, I treasured every moment. From the subtle to the more pronounced, the shifts one goes through during a retreat like Nicole's are lasting and profound." ~Joan, Los Angeles

Nicole, thank you for arranging and leading an amazing retreat weekend!  It was my first yoga retreat, and you've set the bar high for the future.  I enjoyed your yoga and mindfulness teachings, in all their varied formats.  The location was incredible, rooms were comfortable, and the food was delicious!  My intention for the retreat was to connect with self, with others, and with nature.  Under your guidance, I was able to meet my goals in retreat.  Namaste! ~ Sabrina, Woodside

There have been moments over this weekend retreat where I have felt the most relaxed in peaceful in my life. ~ Peggy, age 78