About Dr. P. – Your Guide to the Science of Breath

Hello, I’m Theresa, but you can call me Dr. P. As a Certified Yoga Instructor and Bodywork Educator, I’m here to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and the practical application of yoga and breathwork. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology and a background that includes experience as a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant, I’m uniquely equipped to bring a scientific eye to these ancient practices.

As a proud member of Gen-X, my approach is grounded in a no-nonsense philosophy, delivered with a light-hearted touch. This is a space for the curious and the kind, where we get to the heart of what’s real—because as a #FuckingWitiFulYogini, I believe we can be both wise and a little rebellious. In this space, all are welcome to learn and grow, except those who choose hate over humanity.

The Power of Conscious Breathing:

My mission is to show you why how you breathe truly matters. While traditional practices have long emphasized the power of breath, modern science—my happy place—is now catching up.

Simply breathing to survive is one thing, but conscious breathing is something else entirely. It’s the difference between merely existing and truly thriving. By learning to breathe with intention, you gain a powerful tool to influence your nervous system, manage stress, improve your focus, and enhance your overall health.

You’ll often hear me say my other favorite phrase: “SHUT YOUR MOUTH!” It’s a simple, but powerful, reminder to practice nasal breathing for better health. To put it in a way we can all understand, mouth breathing is a form of self-sabotage. It’s like trying to drive a high-performance race car with the emergency brake on. You’re simply not getting the full power, efficiency, or health benefits your body is designed for.

Here, we’ll explore how simple practices like nasal breathing and humming can lead to improved function in all organ systems, with over 30 scientifically-backed benefits. This includes the powerful effects of vasodilation, which helps improve blood flow not just to your muscles, but to vital areas like your reproductive system.

Functional Yoga for Real Life

My niche is the “why” behind the “how.” I’ll demystify the biomechanics, biochemistry, and psychophysiology of respiration, helping you understand how simple techniques can dramatically improve your life. My instruction is focused on slower, mindful styles that allow you to move with intention and truly listen to your body. As a self-proclaimed #GreenValleyGoddess, I’ll share demonstrations of fun and accessible poses, with a focus on how to use them to excel at the activities you love most.

This is a #TruePoryphorophile  (a true story) of my journey from research and physical therapy to finding my passion in yoga and breathwork. I’m dedicated to sharing the wisdom I’ve gained—all while blasting my favorite artist of all time, the one and only Prince.

Let’s explore the science of breath together. Now, let’s get to work.