Sonya Easter

June 1, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class in 2006, but I started practicing consistently about 3 years ago.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
The peace and balance it brings me, both mentally and physically. It gives me time to reset, breathe, and reconnect with myself.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The calm vibe and the sense of community. I love how people check on me when I miss a class, and seeing my mat already on the floor, especially in my favorite spot when I walk in.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Reading and going to the movies.

Whats your walkout song?
“Just Fine”- Mary J. Blige

One word to describe you?
Creative.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Flow (“church”) And why? The flow… haha. I love the movement, energy, and how connected I feel during class.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I love building Legos.

Whitney Mayer

May 25, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
Introduced in high school dance class, but started a Hatha intro course in college & then sporadically thereafter at different practices.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
The mind- body connection. Yoga is where my breath and spirit meet. It’s not often we get to wind down and connect, grateful for the space to do so.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The vibes. It’s a welcoming no judgment community of well wishing and support. The physical environment doesn’t hurt- I always imagine the plants breathing with us & the exposed brick is one of my faves about Richmond.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Spend time with my kiddo, husband and cat. Garden. Be in nature. Eat good food.

Whats your walkout song?
”Just a girl”- No doubt.

One word to describe you?
Bubbly!

What is your favorite class? And why?
Fave class is usually depth, but these days it’s prenatal bc it’s just enough for me to feel so much better, looser, and connected while not feeling like I’m pushing beyond my preggo boundaries. So grateful for this offering!!

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m allergic to pineapple & dogs.

Natalia Ayala

May 18, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
In high school with my mom.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I’m moving my body!! I’m not thinking about my to-do list, work, or what I’m making for dinner.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
That it’s family-oriented and welcoming to everyone regardless of how far they are in their practice. Also, the playlists are fire!

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Hanging out with my friends and finding new places to eat!

Whats your walkout song?
“All I Do Is Win”- DJ Khaled (I most definitely do not always win)

One word to describe you?
Warm.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Depth. I tend to feel very relaxed by the end of class. It’s a great mid-week pick-me-up.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I work in construction!

Aisha Durham

May 11, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I think my first yoga class was when I was 19 at a gym with a friend. I remember not liking it at all — feeling like I wasn’t built to be flexible and that the room was way too quiet. After years of intense, adrenaline-seeking workouts and chasing a younger version of myself, I’ve come to love a solid yoga practice as my foundation for longevity.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Grounding my heels to the floor. I never thought that would be possible, but after consistent practice, it happened within my first month. Every class gives me space to release emotional baggage in a safe and healthy way. I love feeling strong, grounded, focused, and vulnerable all at once while cultivating power for good.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I love the feeling of belonging in every class I attend. It truly feels like an extension of family, full of the best heart hugs. The natural light, the energy, and the playlists always make me feel at home.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love being a mom to my two teenagers, connecting with clients and wellness professionals, spending quality time with friends, reading, pottery, and being outdoors as much as possible — hiking, mountain biking, camping, getting face snuggles from my chocolate lab, and collecting eggs from my chickens.

Whats your walkout song?
“Ain’t No Man” -The Avett Brothers

One word to describe you?
Gemini.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Rise! It’s truly the best way to start my day. It includes all my favorite poses and stretches at a pace I love, and my mat neighbors always welcome me with smiles and hugs.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’ve moved 28 times in my life and visited six countries, and there’s still so much I want to explore. At the same time, I deeply crave the challenge and beauty of staying grounded in one place.

Katelyn Scott

May 4, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took yoga in college and would take classes here and there, but it became a consistent practice 3 years ago.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Building strength, taking care of my body and gaining the tools I need for everything in the outside world.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
There’s so many things I love about 108 it’s hard to pick a favorite.The community, the connections, the intention put into each moment, the challenges that are fun but keep you accountable, the variation of classes, the love, the laughter we share, the ways we support each other.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
When I’m not at yoga you can find me at a farmers market, spending time outside in nature, reading, learning something new or nannying.

Whats your walkout song?
"Color Of Your Soul.” -GRiZ, CloZee

One word to describe you?
“Radiant.”

What is your favorite class? And why?
I love the 108 and Depth combo. I always feel so good after. I love the space it creates to turn inward, building mental and physical strength, followed by deep stretching.

I also really enjoy Work, Lift, and Blaze because we learn so much and are always growing our practice.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Balancing poses are always harder on the left side ever since I broke my big toe on a can of ginger ale.

David Trickey

April 27, 2026

he/him

When did you start your yoga journey?
2008 when I met my amazing wife, Sandi. She took me to an Ashtanga class to see what I was made of, and whether I was worthy of a second date. I managed not to cry and get through my first yoga class with enough success to lock down another date!

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Getting me out of my head and refocusing on what is truly important in life.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The well thought out music selection that sets the tone of all the stages of class and the recent addition of sound bowls that makes shavasana magical.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Live music, hiking with Sandi and Tosca, Flying Squirrels games, theater, traveling outside the US and experiencing new cultures and making new friends.

Whats your walkout song?
"It’s Tricky" by Run-D.M.C

One word to describe you?
I think chill best describes my overall demeanor. That’s not always the case internally, but I strive to remain calm in all situations and focus on the only thing I truly have control of and that’s my reaction to the world’s daily dose of chaos.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Depth is my current favorite. It takes me to that special place where day to day struggles don’t exist.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m terrified of dancing and want to take lessons to overcome my fear.

Sandi Grivat

April 20, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class in 1999, and I was hooked. I’ve practiced all styles of yoga all over the world, but a slow flow class with a great playlist is what I enjoy—and what I need—the most.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Having the space to practice being intentional, grounded, and steady.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The sounds… the friendly welcomes when you arrive, Tracy’s thoughtful instruction, and maybe most of all, the intentional playlists… and recently, the singing bowls!

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Spending time with Dave… listening to music, hiking with our Vizsla, and traveling. Dave and I have a goal to visit as many populated alpine lakes as we can.

Whats your walkout song?
"Disparate Youth” – Santigold

One word to describe you?
Strategic.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Rise, the slowish intentional flow sets the tone for my day.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m learning to play the Cajun fiddle. I’ve never played an instrument before and it’s incredibly challenging. I want to be able to play a slow, elegant Cajun waltz—one of my favorite sounds of my heritage.

Lisa Griffith

April 13, 2026

she/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
2005. I went to a Bikram class in college and was hooked after that. Sometimes I would do back to back classes (after biking to the studio) because I loved it so much! I’ve always kept yoga a part of my life since then but have been most consistent over the last few years with Tracy’s offerings.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I love the space it carves out in the day for me to slow down, feel grounded, and tune into my body.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The connection and community. I love that I can go for a yoga class and leave with fresh juice, sourdough and a new book to enjoy. I also love the intention that goes into setting each class up- from your mat placement to the music, to the yoga sequence itself.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Hang out with my kids, have dinner with friends, read, and play pickleball. You’ll find me outside as much as possible if it’s sunny out.

Whats your walkout song?
Downtown by Petula Clark

One word to describe you?
Empathetic

What is your favorite class? And why?
108, I love the strengthening aspect of the class and how it always helps my body reset by the end of it, but I also love the meditative aspect. If I can combo 108 and Depth that is truly the chef’s kiss for me!

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m fairly handy and love tackling a good DIY project or learning a new crafty hobby when I have time. I’ve laid flooring, flipped furniture, taken pottery classes… love keeping my hands busy.

Darren Brown

April 6, 2026

He/him

When did you start your yoga journey?
I started yoga 10 years ago.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I enjoy the stillness the practice brings to my mind.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
My favorite thing about 108 Yoga is the community that exists beyond the mat. It’s such a welcoming, energetic, positive, and supportive place. I also love a good “om.”

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I immerse myself in my work and find a lot of satisfaction in it. When not working, I like to be in, on, or around the river. I also love spending time at home.

Whats your walkout song?
“For Whom the Bell Tolls” -Metallica

One word to describe you?
Caring.

What is your favorite class? And why?
My favorite class is Flow. The way the postures connect feels intuitive and natural. “Church Yoga” (which later became Flow) was the first class I took after a multi-year break from my physical practice. It reminds me of one of my favorite classes of Tracy’s from her early years of teaching.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I am an Eagle Scout.

Sage Gresham

March 30, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I started practicing yoga in 2015, I was 3 years old!

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I enjoy watching my practice grow.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Getting to spend even more time with my family, and making new friends.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love to draw and ride my bike.

Whats your walkout song?
“Adventure of a Lifetime” -Coldplay

One word to describe you?
Optimistic.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Flow, it’s exciting, and I love the energy!

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I once rode a dirt bike off a pier, into a river in the middle of winter. I was 8 years old. Kyra jumped in to save me!

Casey Toney Willard

March 23, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took a yoga class as an elective in college, but let’s just say I was not yet ready for the world of yoga. It wasn’t until 2018 when I truly connected, and found value in the practice. 2021 was when I started unlimited memberships/committed practice.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
My practice gives me balance and strength, physically and emotionally. It is a GIFT. Not only does it improve my focus/attention and mood, but it provides a space for deeper connection and it is a constant platform for growth.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I love everything about 108, the community, the environment, the diversity of classes, Tracy & her family. It feels so good to be in that space sharing a beautiful practice with beautiful people. I walk away from every class feeling fulfilled.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I am a very active person! I enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, rafting, camping, hiking, crafting, baking healthy sweets (!), and spending time with my community, my family, and my fur babies. When I am not playing, I work as a speech language pathologist. I really love my profession.

Whats your walkout song?
In honor of Alabama Shakes coming to Richmond next month: Future People, Alabama Shakes.

One word to describe you?
Passionate

What is your favorite class? And why?
That is a difficult question to answer! Each class is perfect for that specific day, at that specific time. For example, Flow is the perfect Saturday morning class. The class I look forward to the most would be Work. It is exactly how I want to start my week, building strength and “projecting.” Work provides space and time to work on postures and learn from others.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I have my mom’s face tattooed on my calf. Not because she has passed away, but because she is an angel on earth and I am obsessed with her.

Elizabeth Fuqua

March 16, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I started practicing yoga in 2010 and loved it so much I became certified to teach that same year.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
The evolution. I've practiced through many different life phases, and while it has looked different over the years, it has remained constant all the same. And my mat! My Manduka has supported me for 16 years and even though we're all about non-attachment I'll be devastated when the time comes to part ways.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Hands down, it's the community. I've been involved with several yoga studios over the years, and there is something so unique about the welcoming spirit of 108. The Greshams make everyone who walks through the door feel like family and I meet someone new every time I attend class. This is not a rush-in/rush-out studio. Come early, settle in, and get to know your neighbors.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Spend time outside with my family, enjoy a meal with friends, and escape to the beach whenever possible.

Whats your walkout song?
Whatever my kids are requesting we play on repeat in the car this week. Right now it's "Clarity" and "Gangnam Style" — classics.

One word to describe you?
Steady.

What is your favorite class? And why?
I love Church Yoga (Flow) on Saturday mornings. It's golden hour at the studio and the energy is so joyful. I appreciate the Flow class because, depending on how my body and mind are feeling that day, you can really ramp up the intensity if you're energized, or pull back and enjoy a slower practice. It's truly all levels.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
My birthday is on Christmas!

Linda Derr

March 9, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I had tried yoga once many years ago and did not enjoy it at all. Fast forward to 2014; my daughter introduced me to the Hot Yoga Richmond Studio.  First time at the studio, I ignored the golden rule and walked out of the room mid-class. Fortunately, the instructor brought me back in, and I have practiced ever since.
Practicing with Tracy has introduced me to a whole new world of yoga!

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Learning and benefiting from new ways to be present, to move/strengthen my body, and to be part of this community.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The friends I have made, the insights I have gained, and the support I have received. 

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Spend time with friends & family, read, cycle, travel, and volunteer. 

Whats your walkout song?
Everything's Coming Our Way - by Santana

One word to describe you?
Driven

What is your favorite class? And why?
108, I can't explain why it is my favorite, but I feel a sense of accomplishment, strength, and focus every time.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
My Japanese heritage (& no, I don't speak the language, although I wish I did).

Nikki Barton

March 2, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class 20 years ago with my mom at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. About a year earlier, my parents had given me a gift card to Bikram Yoga, but I was too nervous to try it and didn’t redeem it for almost a decade when I went with Tracy. From there, I developed a more regular practice.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I enjoy the sacred space that’s created — a place where I can gently release my thoughts and simply be, fully present in what I feel.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The sense of community, the gift of spending more time with my family, and the joy of watching my sister’s dream come to life.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Walking by the river, reading, just being outdoors, and anything to do with water!

Whats your walkout song?
“Supersonic” Oasis

One word to describe you?
Intuitive.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Blaze! I love the fast pace and the challenge of the class — it keeps me energized and fully present. I’m always excited to see what creative standing single-leg balance sequence awaits. And afterward, I love treating myself to something from Embrace Earth. The perfect way to kick off the weekend

.What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I met the love of my life (Darren) through yoga, Tracy, and a January yoga challenge 7 years ago.

Delaine Sanders

Feb 23, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
I began practicing yoga at HYR about 10 or 11 years ago.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Laughing with “the back row” during the 108 breaks.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Truly, it’s the community that Tracy (and her family) have curated.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I like to swim, play with my grandkids, teach my dog tricks, garden, and read.

Whats your walkout song?
“I won’t back down” Tom Petty

One word to describe you?
Quirky

What is your favorite class? And why?
Of all the classes I’ve taken, Flow is my favorite. It’s challenging while still meditative.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I played fast pitch softball a couple of years in college.

Molly Blemker

Feb 16, 2026

She/they

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class with my mom over 15 years ago. I started calling in a more consistent yoga space/community last year and that’s when I met Saylor at the pool and got invited to my first 108!

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
There’s a depth and sacredness to tap into that always returns me home to myself.  I also love the way it helps me consistently show up and explore my edges.

What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The rooted energy. I’ve practiced in so many spaces, but 108 feels like family. There’s such a felt connectedness, to each other, and to the roots of the practice.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love spending time in nature, reading, writing, traveling, going to shows or music festivals, or just staying cozy at home with my partner and our kitty.

Whats your walkout song?
“Back To The Top” by CloZee

One word to describe you?
Authentic

What is your favorite class? And why?
I love them all for different reasons - the grounded presence of Rise, the heat and energy of Blaze, the flow state of 108.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I was supposed to move to Liberia, then the pandemic hit and my whole life path changed… and led me to become a therapist :)

Leigh Anne Ratliff

Feb 9, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
The winter of 2024.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Seeing improvement, knowing there are always things to improve upon; that's like a gift. Being able to experience these feelings alongside supportive friends is a treasure.

Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Walking in and seeing my mat on the floor, already set out, next to friends, shows me that I'm expected, I'm wanted. This brings me such comfort and joy and has enabled me to build community and thrive.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love reading, watching ncaa basketball with my husband (go Illinois!), chatting with my mom or kids, gardening and plants in general, sewing, and snuggling with our two pugs, Athena and Apollo.

Whats your walkout song?
”Remember the Name” --Fort Minor

One word to describe you?
Optimistic

What is your favorite class? And why?
108! Sunday mornings at 7am, bathed in the reddish glow of the Hadeed Mercer sign and the sun is starting to come up, standing alongside my friends and marveling as we make it through the various rounds... I know I am right where I'm supposed to be! Doing a practice I wouldn't have thought possible but is :)

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
There is a tradition of quilting in my family and I love quilting and sewing. I have a gorgeous quilt that my great grandmother and grandmother made together (my grandmother gave it to me on my wedding day.)

Chad Gresham

Feb 2, 2026

He/him

When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class in 2015. I jumped right in taking 90 days of hot yoga in a row.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Reconnecting with my breath. The Ujjayi breath.

Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The teacher.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Spend time with the family.

Whats your walkout song?
“Forty Six & 2” -TOOL

One word to describe you?
Capable.

What is your favorite class? And why?
108, because it is the most meditative practice. You can focus solely on your breath.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I had a spiritual awakening at age 33. I’m always on the edge of chaos and greatness, and terrified of both.

Sarah Beck

Jan 26, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
My mom had yoga videotapes that my sister and I would do together. But my first regular practice was with Tracy at the pool.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I’ve grown so incredibly confident in my body. I feel strong and flexible. I love my body exactly as it is for the first time in my life

Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I know everyone says it, but the community. Building community is so important, but now more than ever. I love how 108 is a safe place to share, learn, and grow.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Being mama to my kids, James and Louie; playing a board game with my best friend/husband Dale; gardening; drawing or painting; fixing things; doing something worthwhile with friends; or reading. …all best done with a hot cup of coffee.

Whats your walkout song?
“We Run This”-Missy Elliott

One word to describe you?
Creative.

What is your favorite class? And why?
Flow has a special place in my heart since that’s where it all started. But honestly, I think Work is my favorite. I cannot even believe the breakthroughs I’ve had there that I’ve been able to carry over to other classes.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I can understand and read Italian and am working on improving my conversational skills as well. In 2024 it was my goal to read the entire first Harry Potter book in Italian. I read the second book in 2025, and now I’m starting the third one.

Katie Lough

Jan 19, 2026

She/her

When did you start your yoga journey?
My first experience with yoga was taking it as an elective in college. Over the years I would periodically take classes. With the opening of 108 Yoga, I am practicing regularly.

What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I love when I get into the flow during a class where my mind is clear. I also love the peaceful feeling I carry with me after class.

Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I love that I get to spend more time with my family (I'm Tracy's sister) and being a part of this 108 yoga family.

What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love going on adventures with my sons. This summer we went on a cross country road trip exploring 17 National Parks. I also love salsa dancing, mountain biking, and this year I am going to start section-hiking the Appalachian Trail.

Whats your walkout song?
“Dog Days Are Over” -Florence + The Machine.

One word to describe you?
Kind.

What is your favorite class? And why?
My go-to class is Rise. It is the perfect way to start the day.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?
My sisters, Tracy and Nikki, and I were state and national baton twirling champions. Our mom was a baton teacher, and much like Tracy's life is yoga now, our lives were baton twirling back then. You might still catch us twirling fire batons together on the 4th of July.