As a young adult she discovered her passion and appreciation for art. This led her to study at the Design institute of San Diego. While her kids were young, she taught art history at their school and art influenced her desire to see life through the lens of others during her many travels around the world. In 2012, she became a certified yoga teacher under the guidance of Sherry Schreck, Certified Anusara Teacher. In recent years, she has become a mental health advocate. Her advocacy has taken her to Capitol Hill and to speak on behalf of mental health organizations including, International Bipolar Foundation, Sharp Mesa Vista, Quell Foundation and more. In 2016, her work in mental wellness provided the opportunity to take on the role of Fundraising Chair for International Bipolar Foundation. Her advocacy work continues today.

Tanya is grateful for the teachers in her life. In 2001, she was referred to Julie Chippendale, a well-respected MBSR teacher who became her first yoga and meditation teacher and has mentored and guided her for 22 years. In 2019, she met visionary, author, and founder of Pachamama Alliance, Lynn Twist, who has been an important teacher in her life. From Lynn, she learned the essential and sacred nature of fundraising and took a trip with her to the sacred head waters of the Amazon Rain Forest. The time she spent there had a deep impact on her ability to connect with others and she came to understand the vital relationship we have with nature and how our well-being depends upon it.

The most important work in Tanya’s life has been her children. They are her biggest inspiration and most consequential teachers. Now that they are grown and thriving in their own lives, it is the perfect time for her to share mindfulness with others. Under the guidance of Julie, she taught her first MBSR class in 2021 and is honored and fully engaged in continuing to teach the practice of mindfulness.