Deborah Ultan

Deborah is a much appreciated substitute teacher at Big River Yoga!

she/her/hers

Teaching since:  My yoga journey began in Virginia, 1992, in a yoga class for dancers from which I discovered an immediate connection. Compelled to teach, I gathered friends who were willing to experiment with me as their guide. I taught at studios for many years, then finally got certified in 2021 and am now a RYT200.

Styles that inform and inspire my teaching: Iyengar and vinyasa yoga are an inspiring combination that allow me to merge alignment with my love for movement and dance. William Prottengeier (Iyengar) and Maria Toso (Vinyasa and Somatics) are my most influential local teachers.

Why I teach yoga:  I teach because yoga can be everything from soothing to transforming, empowering, and humbling; as a teacher I can guide and nurture that deeply personal path.  

What to expect from classes with me:  My goal is to guide a practice that is attentive to the structure, shape, and energy of poses in a way that is thoughtful, joyful, and encourages the illuminating integration of body, mind, breath, and spirit. Students can expect a serious, but fun, practice that blends alignment with flow.

When I’m not teaching yoga, you can find me: At the University of Minnesota Libraries where I have been an art librarian and curator since 2000; taking walks with our adorable golden doodle; occasionally playing tennis; cheering on my 16 year old son who is a serious cross-country runner, and hanging with my sweetheart and friends.