Amy Cumbow

Introduction:

Amy Cumbow is a thoughtful and grounded yoga instructor whose relationship with movement spans over a decade. A lifelong Lansing-area resident, Amy was first drawn to group fitness in the late ’90s through step aerobics, where she discovered the power of moving together in community. Yoga later became a steady way for her to slow down, tune in, and care for herself — a practice rooted in self-compassion and curiosity.

Training and Certifications:

Amy earned her 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher certification in 2024 through a blended program with East Lansing Hot Yoga (ELHY) and Yoga Renew, and is registered with Yoga Alliance. She is also CPR certified through the American Red Cross. Committed to lifelong learning, Amy continues to deepen her understanding of restorative yoga, yin yoga, meditation, and recovery-based practices.

Teaching Style and Approach:

Amy’s classes are designed to feel like a journey — inviting students to explore challenge, ease, and play along the way. Her teaching balances intentional strength-building with moments of rest, offering a medium-paced class that includes a gentle warm-up, purposeful holds, a fun and accessible flow, and a deeply restorative cool-down. Students are encouraged to listen inward and move in ways that honor their bodies.

Teaching Philosophy:

At the heart of Amy’s teaching is the belief that we are always students first. She encourages people to meet themselves where they are, reminding students that there is no “behind” in a practice meant to last a lifetime. By creating space for self-acceptance and presence, Amy aims to help students build both physical strength and inner steadiness.

Personal Journey:

Yoga has helped Amy embrace both the yin and the yang — on the mat and in life. Through her practice, she has learned to value stillness and savasana just as much as strength and sweat, finding balance that feels grounding, empowering, and sustainable. This integration of effort and ease continues to shape how she lives and teaches.

Beyond the Mat:

Outside the studio, Amy finds joy in hiking and backpacking, drawn to the simplicity and clarity that come from time in nature. She treasures time with her family, including her adult daughter who also practices yoga, and feels most herself during long drives on open roads, creative projects, meaningful conversations, and moments of service. Grounded by morning reading and mantras, Amy’s self-care centers on balance, presence, and lighting herself up through simple, intentional moments.