Ishmael Sonico
In the spring of 2010, ishmail received his 200 hr, Vinyasa Yoga (basic, intermediate, advanced) certification in Aliso Viejo, California. In addition to yoga, he enjoys climbing, difficult hikes and bouldering in the desert!
“realize that your breath is most important and that the Difficulties/challenges are secondary.”
Practicing yoga reminds him to be present, appreciate where he is and know that every life experience supports personal growth.
“Come learn more, because a yoga practice teaches us more than what our bodies can do; your mind and breath (energy) are key too. After practice, you’ll feel stronger and wiser too! “
Meghan Matas
Meghan is stoked to join the Vertical Hold Yoga team! She earned her 200-hour yoga teacher certification earlier this year and has been practicing yoga for the past six years. For MEGHAN, yoga is more than just movement—it's a place to slow down, quiet the mind, breathe deeply, find balance, and cultivate a sense of peace amid the busyness of everyday life.
When she's not flowing, you'll most likely find her climbing both indoors and out, running, surfing in the summer, snowboarding in the winter, heading off on her next camping trip, or cuddled up with her cat, Miso.
As a lifelong runner, Meghan has come to appreciate that yoga builds strength, mobility, and flexibility, while also teaching the power of intentional breathing to calm the nervous system, improve focus, and create a deeper connection between mind and body.
She is excited to share this practice with fellow climbers to help them move better, recover stronger, and find a little more flow both on the mat and on the wall.
KAREY GARCIA
Karey is a mom, trail runner, rock climber, yoga instructor, and a perpetual student of all of these things.
Her yoga teacher training is in Vinyasa with an emphasis on power. She also holds a certification to teach Yin Yoga.
Karey likes to combine functional movement and mobility with yoga poses and loves how climbing and yoga suit each other so well.
Her approach to life is to keep showing up even when things get uncomfortable. Whether it be on the mat, on the trail, or on the boulder, it is all the more reason to keep at it because that is where the magic happen
MELISSA SANTOS
Mel is a passionate yoga teacher who has been practicing for nearly two years. From the moment she stepped onto the mat, she fell in love with yoga and knew she wanted to share its transformative power with others. With a focus on creating a safe and welcoming space, Mel aims to help students unwind, relax, and experience the myriad benefits of yoga that have significantly improved her own quality of life.
Outside of teaching, Mel enjoys spending time at the beach, nurturing a collection of plants, and caring for animals. Her holistic approach to well-being extends beyond the mat, and she is dedicated to fostering a supportive community where everyone can explore the joys of yoga together.
