Leah Carlson, Director of Customer Experiences & Operations + Yoga, Barre, and Fitness Teacher

She/They

E-RYT@200, YACEP@

What brought you to yoga?
I initially found yoga in 2010 while healing a foot injury, though it didn't take long to find a passion for practice.

What’s your yoga background and what are you most passionate about teaching?
I completed teacher training at Yoga Oasis in 2014, and continued study at Balancing Monkey Yoga in Hilo, Hawaii. I love to craft creative and challenging sequences designed to give students an overall sense of well being. I strive to provide clear, alignment-informed instruction to emphasize strength and form.

What would your students be surprised to know about you?
Outside the studio, I love spending time with my four wonderful dogs.

What you should know about the qualifications of instructors at Yoga Pod Tucson!

• What certifications do your instructors hold?

  Our instructors have diverse and extensive certifications across yoga, barre, and fitness. Below are some of the prestigious credentials they hold.

  • Yoga Teacher Certifications:

    • Yoga Alliance Certifications:  E-RYT®500, E-RYT®200, RYT®500, RYT®200, RCYT® (Children’s Yoga), RPYT® (Prenatal Yoga), YACEP® (Continuing Education Provider),

    • Specialized Yoga Certifications:  Aero Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Buti Yoga Bands, Buti Yoga DEEP, Buti Yoga Sculpt, Chair Yoga, Ghosh Yoga, Hot Buti Yoga, Hot Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Primal Flow, Restorative Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Yin Yoga, Yoga for Athletes, Yoga for Seniors, Yoga for Women’s Health

  • Yoga Therapy Certifications: International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), Trauma Release

  • Mindfulness & Meditation Certifications: Breath & Meditation, Crystal Bowl Sound, Integral Sound Healing, Living Yoga Alchemy, Meditation & Mindfulness, Reiki Master, Yoga Nidra

  • Barre Certifications: Barre3, TDM Barre, Yoga Pod Tucson Barre

  • Fitness Certifications:  ACE Personal Trainer, CrossFit Level 1, Cycling, NASM Group Fitness Instructor, NASM Personal Trainer, NASM Women’s Fitness Specialist, TRX Suspension, Yoga Pod Tucson Fitness

  • Sports & Rehabilitation Certifications:, Chinese Medicine & Myofascial Release, Orthopedic Yoga, Traditional Thai Yoga, Yoga Anatomy, Yoga for Athletes, Yoga for Women’s Health

• How do these certifications enhance my experience?

  Each of our instructors brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to your practice, ensuring that you receive safe, informed, and effective guidance. Their certifications provide:

  • Safe and effective teaching rooted in anatomy and alignment principles.

  • Tailored sessions for specific needs such as prenatal care, restorative yoga, and injury recovery.

  • A commitment to ongoing learning, so you receive the most up-to-date practices in yoga and fitness.

• Are your instructors continuously updating their skills?

  Yes, our instructors are committed to lifelong learning. Many of them participate in:

  • Advanced certifications in areas like Yoga Nidra, Yoga Medicine, and Somatic Practices.

  • Continuing education through workshops, retreats, and specialized training.

  • Regular professional development to stay current in the yoga, barre, and fitness industries.

• Can I see individual instructor certifications?

  Absolutely! Each instructor’s page features a detailed list of their certifications and specializations. You can learn about their unique qualifications and areas of expertise to find the perfect teacher for your journey.