There is a Chinese proverb, “Tension is who we think we should be. Relaxation is who we are.”
As an instructor, educator and healer in the wellness industry since 1985, Mona Michelsen has realized that there are many paths leading to higher states of well-being and fitness.
Mona was born and raised in the Chicago area and is a life-long student of the human body and movement. With a BA in Physical Education and a Master’s Degree in Kinesiology, she also received a license from the Chicago School of Massage Therapy and is a certified reflexologist. Her professional experience includes resorts, health clubs, yoga studios, private homes and management of corporate fitness centers in Chicago, IL and Telluride, CO.
In 1998, Mona was certified by the Himalayan Institute as a yoga instructor and after 10 years of teaching and practicing vinyasa yoga, she was introduced to TriYoga. Feeling inspired by the gentle flow and depth of this style of yoga she went on to receive training and certification in Santa Cruz, California directly from TriYoga’s founder, Kali Ray.
While in Santa Cruz, Mona discovered Qi Gong by taking a class with Qi Gong master, Lee Holden. She immediately felt its power and connection to what she was already achieving through yoga. As with TriYoga, Qigong uses slow movement, rhythmic breathing and mental focus to harness intrinsic life energy and experience greater clarity and awareness. She continued her training with Lee, and became a certified Qigong instructor in 2011.
With thousands of hours of teaching and bodywork, Mona is most inspired by healing systems that honor prana and chi, helping us to uncover our true nature and potential, not as we think we are supposed to be, but as we truly are.
She believes the best practice is the one that inspires you to return to your yoga mat or workout routine every day. Discovering what that is will provide the inspiration to commit to a practice and help create a transformation in body, mind and spirit.
Mona will always remain a student and continue to train with Kali Ray, Lee Holden and other masters. Her students and clients are her greatest source of inspiration as she continues her never ending journey of peace, happiness and empowerment.
