About Vanessa

Vanessa France is a writer, yoga teacher, and co-owner of Zen. Before opening the studios, she worked in hospice, walking alongside patients and families through some of life’s most tender thresholds. On the mat, she’s known for grounded, compassionate classes that weave breathwork, nervous-system awareness, and accessible philosophy – the kind of practice that meets people exactly where they are.

She is an autism advocate and a mom of four, and lives with a connective-tissue disorder; yoga has been a practical tool for pain management and resilience, and she shares those tools in a clear, supportive way. Expect options, gentle strength, and thoughtful alignment – and to leave feeling steadier, lighter, and more at home in your body.

Vanessa also hosts community workshops and retreats focused on healing and connection. Alongside teaching, she writes and speaks about recovery and resilience. Her memoir, Unraveled: A Journey from Breakdown to Breakthrough, explores anxiety, disordered eating, and alcohol dependence — and how yoga, faith, and community supported her healing.

Join us for the official book release and signing at Zen Yoga & Wellness in Westminster on Friday, November 7, the weekend of Vanessa’s five-year sobriety anniversary. Come celebrate, connect, and be inspired by this powerful story of transformation.

📖 View the event on Facebook
📚 Unraveled is available now in print and eBook on Amazon

About Rebekah

Rebekah Traylor has been practicing yoga for over two decades and is an E-RYT 500 instructor and co-owner of Zen Yoga & Wellness. She earned her 200-hour yoga certification at the Yoga & Ayurveda Center in Pennsylvania and has continued to expand her training and teaching experience throughout the years. Rebekah also holds a Master Level Reiki Certification. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Fine Arts and is a Massachusetts Department of Education certified Health and Wellness teacher.

She has a full and vibrant life, which she enjoys with her husband, her four children, her dog, two cats, and her friends and family – all of whom are deeply important to her. She loves staying active, being near the water (especially the ocean), and playing music.

For Rebekah, yoga is a lifestyle and a lifelong journey that has opened an entirely new way of seeing the world and herself. It is her passion to help people understand that yoga truly is for everyone. She believes yoga is a powerful and practical tool that supports all areas of life – from self-care, self-awareness, and personal growth to stress management, injury prevention and recovery, focus and productivity in classrooms and workplaces, and enhanced athletic performance. Yoga is far more than physical postures; it is a mindset that cultivates peace, connection, and unity in both body and mind.

About Timea

Timea is a seasoned Realtor with over a decade of experience, known for her expertise in the real estate industry. Aside from the realm of property transactions and sealing deals, she assumes the role of co-captain at Zen Yoga & Wellness alongside her dedicated business partners, channeling her passion for holistic well-being.

In the realm of fitness & wellness, she’s a seasoned Barre, an intermediate Pilates, 200 RYT, certified SUP YO & Pumped Up Strength instructor. She took her first yoga class 20 years ago and has been actively practicing for over a decade. Timea is all about finding that perfect balance between fitness in her heart-pumping Barre and mindfulness in her Yogalates classes. Her passion for holistic well-being is reflected in every class she leads.

A true advocate for holistic wellness, Timea lives and breathes health, mindful movements, and overall well-being. Timea finds solace and rejuvenation in nature, making it a point to immerse herself in the natural world whenever possible - you'll often spot her soaking up the great outdoors, connecting with nature, and grounding herself in its beauty.

With her infectious energy and unwavering passion for both her career and personal wellness journey, Timea is the ultimate embodiment of someone who's all about growth, balance, and spreading good vibes wherever she goes. Her dedication to both her professional endeavors and personal wellness journey paints a portrait of a multifaceted individual dedicated to growth, balance, and harmony in all aspects of life.

About Sonya

Sonya received her 200 hour YTT from Frog Pond Yoga in 2017. Shortly after, she did a year of AmeriCorps service with Habitat for Humanity with her husband on the Big Island of Hawaii. While there she spent time at an Ashram and attended many workshops and trainings including an advanced vinyasa and a meditation immersion program. Sonya has her 85 hour prenatal yoga certification from Devi Ma yoga, and her 100 hour certification in Embody Yoga from Shraddha Yoga. In addition to being certified in baby, toddler and children’s yoga. Sonya has been working in early childhood education for nearly 20 years. She has worked as a lead preschool teacher, a development specialist for early intervention, was the program coordinator for the MOC CFCE and co-taught 1st and 2nd grade at a nature-based independent school. Sonya lives in Sterling with her husband and young daughter.

About Emily

Emily first discovered vinyasa yoga in 2008, and it was love at first Savasana! From that moment, she realized that yoga was not just a practice, but a calling, and in 2012, she made her dream of becoming a yoga teacher a reality by receiving her 200 RYT through Frog Lotus Yoga International.

Emily brings a unique blend of peaceful strength and a playful approach to her vinyasa classes, creating a nurturing and joyful environment for her students. Her teaching is deeply rooted in building genuine connections with her students, and she is always eager to share her passion for yoga with the community.

Emily’s warmth and compassion have earned her a special place in the hearts of her students. She is highly loved by the members at Zen Yoga & Wellness, who appreciate her supportive, inclusive teaching style and the positive energy she brings to every class. Her students often praise her for making each class feel like a personal journey, leaving them feeling centered, inspired, and ready to take on the world.

She is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to teach and share her love of yoga with the community, and her enthusiasm continues to inspire those around her. Whether you're new to yoga or have been practicing for years, Emily’s classes offer a warm and welcoming space for everyone.

About Jenna

Jenna Mooney has been a practicing chiropractor in our community for over 20 years, and her holistic approach to care has always included a strong focus on patient education—particularly emphasizing the importance of self-care. Her belief that a personal yoga practice is a vital component of any self-care routine has made her an invaluable resource for her students and clients alike.

Jenna's knowledge and experience are vast and deeply respected by both her colleagues and students. She trained at Frog Pond Yoga Center, where she earned her 200-hour certification in 2013, and further expanded her expertise by studying under Patty Townsend at the Yoga Center of Amherst, earning an additional 300 hours of study in the therapeutic approach of Embodyoga in 2017. Jenna continually invests in her own growth as a teacher, regularly attending continuing education training and workshops to refine her skills and enhance her personal yoga practice, which has been an integral part of her life for over 20 years.

Our members have a tremendous amount of respect for Jenna, both as a teacher and as a person. Her dedication to her craft and her students is evident in every class she leads. She is known for her expertise, compassion, and ability to create a supportive and empowering environment for all her students, whether they are brand new to yoga or seasoned practitioners.

Our members truly love Jenna for her approachable demeanor and the care she takes in providing individual attention and guidance. Her classes are not just about physical postures—they are about cultivating a deeper connection to the body, mind, and spirit. Jenna’s ability to weave her vast knowledge of anatomy and therapeutic yoga into each class makes her an exceptional teacher and mentor.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Jenna as part of the Zen Yoga & Wellness family. Her passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to her students' well-being make her an invaluable member of our community. Jenna's impact is felt deeply by everyone who has the privilege of practicing with her, and we are truly grateful for the positive influence she brings to our studio and beyond.

About Britt

Britt’s yoga journey began several years ago, and she quickly fell in love with the practice. What started as a passion for the physical aspects of yoga soon blossomed into a deep appreciation for its philosophy. She realized that yoga is multifaceted, much like herself, and this realization sparked a desire to explore further. What began with yoga led her to discover many other beautiful modalities, connecting her with her inner world and guiding her down a spiritual path that includes astrology, tarot, meditation, and energy healing, among other practices.

In 2019, Britt completed her Reiki Master – Teacher Certification, further deepening her connection to the healing arts. Later that year, she decided to take the next step on her yogic path and began Yoga Teacher Training in 2020 with Frog Pond Yoga. She completed her 200-hour YTT in 2021, and her studies confirmed that yoga is about so much more than just the physical practice.

Completing her training amidst the pandemic only reinforced Britt’s belief that the world needs community and connection more than ever. She brings her experiences and knowledge into her love of writing and teaching, and you can expect each of her yoga classes to be guided with grounded, intentional movement that is connected to the breath. Britt integrates her knowledge of astrology, energy, and other spiritual practices, making each class practical and accessible for everyone.

Britt's classes are designed to help students connect with themselves on a deeper level, both physically and spiritually, creating a space for growth, healing, and self-discovery.

About Debi

Debi is a highly experienced occupational therapist with an impressive forty years in the field. Early on in her career, she was fortunate to balance her work as a therapist with her passion for singing and performing, creating a unique blend of professional experiences. While raising her family took her away from the limelight for a period of time, Debi has found fulfillment in teaching exercise classes, which has allowed her to combine both of her career passions and share her love for wellness with others.

Throughout her career, Debi has learned that age is just a number, and she is continually inspired by her patients and class participants. Her perspective is that it’s never too late to pursue health, wellness, and personal growth, and she strives to pass this philosophy on to those she works with. Debi's classes are designed to not only improve physical health but to encourage a positive mindset and greater self-confidence, no matter where you are on your wellness journey.

Debi’s deep empathy and commitment to her students are reflected in the way she works with our senior members, who hold her in high regard and look up to her as a source of inspiration. Her approach is holistic, focused not only on physical strength but also on promoting mental and emotional well-being. Debi’s hope is to provide inspiration and empowerment to all those she works with, fostering an environment of support and encouragement. Her belief in the potential of every individual—regardless of age—shines through in her teaching and continues to impact the lives of everyone she meets.

About Yee Leng

Yee Leng is a two-time cancer survivor. After being diagnosed at the age of 24, she embarked on a journey to discover the mind-body-spirit connection. Her first yoga class in 2005 eventually led her to Frog Pond Yoga Centre in Princeton, where she received her 200-hour yoga teacher training in 2011.

At the age of 48, Yee Leng received the news of her second cancer diagnosis. During this challenging time, she was deeply grateful to have yoga as a tool to support her through both treatment and recovery. She credits her practice for helping her endure the rigors and side effects of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, as well as the emotional ups and downs of the disease.

Because of her personal experience with cancer, Yee Leng feels deeply connected to the therapeutic and healing aspects of yoga and meditation. She believes that everyone can come “home” to their bodies, no matter their condition, and that listening quietly to the wisdom within can foster healing and self-discovery.

Her journey has shaped her approach to yoga, and she is passionate about helping others find peace and strength through their own practices.

About Karen

Karen's journey with Pilates began in 2013 by taking group classes just once a week. After experiencing the positive impact Pilates had on her body and mind, she became passionate about sharing Pilates with others. In 2022, Karen became certified in Pilates Mat I and II, equipping her with the skills to teach both beginner and intermediate clients. She soon started teaching at Zen, and absolutely loves being part of the Zen community!

Karen is currently enrolled in the Power Pilates Comprehensive Training Program, a 600 hour program dedicated to learning the classical exercises on all Pilates apparatus, including Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and more. This training covers everything from beginner to advanced, including modifications for various injuries or needs clients may have.

In class, Karen offers classical Pilates structure and routine, with playful and joyful cuing that is sure to have clients feeling their deepest abdominal muscles. Whether you're new to Pilates or deepening your practice, Karen's personalized approach ensures that you leave every class feeling stronger, more flexible, energized, and ready to take on whatever comes next. Pilates exercises work to both strengthen and lengthen muscles, and are known to help alleviate pain by strengthening muscles that support the spine and joints throughout the body.

As a former elementary educator, Karen brings 10 years of experience teaching children PreK-5. She is well versed in classroom management, child development, and social-emotional learning. In her kids yoga classes, Karen incorporates movement, partner activities, connection-building conversations, and mindfulness practices to help support the overall wellness of our littlest zen members!

Outside of teaching yoga and Pilates, Karen can be found at the lake on a paddleboard, waterskiing behind a boat, reading, or wandering through local hiking trails with her dog. Pilates and Yoga are the foundation to healthy movement that allows Karen to be active in all areas of her life.

About Mike

Michael Vecchi is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT500) with Yoga Alliance, which recognizes the completion of a yoga teacher training with an approved and active Registered Yoga School (RYS).

He completed his initial training at Frog Pond Yoga Centre in Princeton, MA, focusing on classical and traditional Raja Yoga. The practices of Raja Yoga emphasize the integration of breath, body, and mind to promote spiritual growth. Michael originally began his yoga practice for stress reduction and physical therapy, but it quickly developed into a deep passion for the practice and its teachings. His passion has continued to evolve over the years, and he now integrates the Yoga practice into his everyday life and activities.

Michael is also a graduate of the Hits The Spot Yoga Advanced Teacher Training 500-hour Certification Program, which is registered with Yoga Alliance. He studied at Solar Hill Yoga in Brattleboro, Vermont, under the guidance of Scott Willis, along with a wonderful group of local yogis. Scott draws from his years of study and teaching, incorporating influences from Anusara, Kripalu, Iyengar Style, and Insight Meditation into his curriculum.

In addition to his formal training, Michael has also owned and operated a yoga studio, “Unity Yoga” in Gardner, Massachusetts, where he taught as a community service and practiced yoga both on the mat and off. He believes that “If you can breathe, you can do yoga.” Michael emphasizes that there is no competition in yoga, and each person works to the best of their ability.

About Jess

Jess is a dedicated fitness enthusiast and passionate instructor on a mission to empower others through movement. Introduced to the dynamic world of barre in 2016, Jess immediately fell in love with its invigorating blend of strength and grace. Fueled by this newfound passion, she pursued certification as an instructor in 2017 through Barre N9ne, where she honed her skills and inspired countless others on their fitness journeys. In 2019, Jess expanded her expertise to include rowing, joining Sweatfixx and guiding clients through high-energy sessions on the rower and strength training.

Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Jess made the bold decision to relocate to Fitchburg, drawn by the warmth of family ties and the desire to be close to her sister and nephew. (Being referred to as Titi is the best!) It was here that she discovered Zen, where she found a sense of belonging and a place to share her passion for wellness. By day, Jess excels in the world of software sales, but her true passion lies in guiding others to find balance, strength, and joy in every moment, both on and off the mat.

During her leisure time, Jess is always ready for an adventure. Whether she’s relaxing on a sandy beach, trekking along a scenic trail, or exploring a new country, she makes the most of every opportunity. Note: Jess is also always on the lookout for dog-friendly breweries to enjoy with her sidekick, Raja. So, recommendations are always welcome!

About Shannon

Shannon first embraced yoga and mindfulness to ease the physical and mental toll of classroom life as an educator. In January 2023, she stepped away from teaching to deepen her practice and support and empower others to heal from workplace stress, trauma, and burn-out. That summer, she earned her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training certification and became a Social-Emotional Learning & Mindfulness Facilitator through Breathe for Change, an organization dedicated to bringing wellness into schools.

Shannon currently works as an Academic Counselor at Mount Wachusett Community College, is also a member of the Gardner School Committee, and works as a freelance life coach specializing in self-discovery, work/life balance, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning. At Zen, she instructs family, youth, and adult yoga/wellness classes & workshops.

About Jessica

Jessica began practicing yoga many moons ago. While working in a prison environment, where she began her career at a young age, she sought out positive and supportive ways to let go of the everyday challenges and stressors that came with her job. Yoga became the heart of her pursuit to create a healthy lifestyle.

Jessica’s practice taught her that the lessons learned on the mat can be applied beyond the mat, in our everyday life—even when that life brings you into a prison. As she moved beyond her own mat, she chose to take the lessons she learned and share them through teaching.

Jessica’s extensive trainings began with her 200-hour teacher training at Frog Pond Yoga Center, which she completed in 2014. She continued with an additional 300-hour training certification with Bhava Yoga in Brattleboro, VT. Several lineages of yoga influence Jessica’s teaching; you will find elements of Jivamukti, Baptiste, Hatha, and Ashtanga as you flow through her classes. These elements have been integrated over time as she is continuously attending workshops and trainings. In addition to yoga, she has completed workshops and certifications in meditation and Reiki.

Her classes focus on the connection of mind, body, and breath as she links them together through movement, strength, and grace. Jessica takes pride in creating a flow that can be challenging but playful, with emphasis on alignment. Her classes will help you quiet your mind and strengthen your body to allow a complete transformation, as you evolve into the truest version of yourself. Jessica’s teaching reminds her students that when they leave their mat, they can choose to be the person they want to be.

About Jessica

Jessica is a yoga & spin instructor and a school psychologist in training, bringing her passion for mental wellness and mindfulness to her work both in the studio and beyond. With over a decade of experience teaching yoga in both studios and classrooms, she has earned a reputation for creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all of her students.

Jessica completed her 200-hour teacher training at Frog Pond Yoga in Princeton, MA, followed by a 300-hour teacher training at Bhava Yoga in Brattleboro, VT. She has also studied yogic philosophy extensively through her college education and workshops over the years, constantly deepening her knowledge to bring a well-rounded approach to her teaching.

Our members love Jessica for her warm and approachable style, which makes every class feel inclusive and inspiring. She has a special talent for connecting with her students and supporting them on their journey toward both physical and mental well-being. Her classes are filled with energy and compassion, and her dedication to mindfulness and mental health truly shines through in her teachings.

Beyond the studio, Jessica enjoys coffee, traveling, and being near the sea, as well as her belief that the book is always better than the screen adaptation. We are incredibly fortunate to have Jessica as part of our Zen Yoga & Wellness community, where she continues to inspire and uplift everyone who practices with her.

About Therese

Therese has been teaching yoga since 2001 and has had the privilege of studying with many inspirational instructors from various traditions. Some of the notable teachers who have deeply influenced her practice and teachings include David Swanson, Desiree Rumbaugh, Anna Forrest, Schuyler Grant, Rolf Gates, Baron Baptiste, and many other wonderful, inspiring instructors across diverse lineages. Each of these teachers has helped shape her unique approach to yoga, fostering a deep understanding of the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of the practice.

With over two decades of experience, Therese brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to her classes. Her teaching is a beautiful blend of eclectic styles, influenced by the teachings of her many mentors, and her own lifelong journey in the practice. Therese is known for her ability to meet students where they are, guiding them on a path toward physical and mental well-being. Her classes are both nurturing and challenging, with a focus on alignment, breath, and mindfulness, ensuring that each student receives a holistic experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting your journey, Therese’s classes are accessible and welcoming for everyone. She creates an atmosphere that is comfortable, inclusive, and filled with positive energy, making it the perfect space for personal growth. Her deep passion for yoga shines through in every class, and she inspires students to explore their full potential, both on and off the mat.

Therese’s dedication to her practice and her students is truly evident, and her approach encourages not just physical strength but also emotional and mental clarity. If you are looking to deepen your practice, find balance, or simply connect with yourself in a meaningful way, Therese will guide you with care, expertise, and genuine compassion.

About Megan

Megan received her 200-hour Vinyasa Yoga certification in 2013 at Prana Power Yoga in Cambridge, MA. Her journey to certification was a deeply personal one, and now, years later, Megan deeply enjoys sharing her expertise and passion for yoga with the community.

Megan’s dedication to health and wellness extends far beyond her personal practice. As long-time members of Orchard Hills, she and her family prioritize healthy living in their daily lives, and we love how her enthusiasm and commitment inspire and motivate our members to reach their fullest potential.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi, you will love the energy and passion Megan brings to her classes. Her ability to connect with students and create a supportive, empowering environment makes her a truly exceptional instructor.

About Lauren

Lauren brings over 18 years of experience to Zen and has a rich background in competitive swimming, running, and obstacle course racing. Her diverse athletic history has given her a unique perspective on wellness, and she is passionate about helping others unlock their own potential through movement. With a personal track record of completing 10 marathons and participating in various 24-hour endurance events, Lauren’s commitment to pushing her own limits is a testament to her dedication to endurance and physical well-being.

Throughout her career, Lauren has cultivated an incredible depth of knowledge and experience. Her diverse athletic journey has not only shaped her approach to fitness but also inspired her teaching style, which focuses on empowering others to achieve their personal best. She draws on her extensive background to create dynamic, engaging, and effective fitness experiences for her clients.

At the heart of Lauren’s mission is the belief in the transformative power of movement. She works tirelessly to help clients of all fitness levels unlock their full potential while cultivating long-lasting healthy habits. For Lauren, wellness is not just about physical strength; it’s about finding balance and harmony in all aspects of life, both on and off the mat. Through her classes, Lauren aims to inspire each person she works with to not only improve their physical fitness but also to find peace, confidence, and balance in their daily lives.

About Brenda

Brenda began practicing yoga in 2015, and in January 2025, she completed her 200-hour teacher training at Down Under School of Yoga in Brookline, MA. In April 2025, she returned to Down Under to attend an “Art of Assisting” workshop that focused on asana alignment.

Working in the medical field as a Registered Vascular Technologist, Brenda witnesses daily the importance of caring for the body. Her belief is simple: when we take care of the body, the body takes care of us. She believes a consistent yoga practice offers space to slow down, to listen, and to reconnect with the inner wisdom that’s always present beneath the noise. Over time, the practice creates balance, clarity, and a sense of stillness one can return to—no matter what’s happening externally.

Brenda’s classes follow the Baptiste Journey into Power sequence, which links breath with movement, builds physical strength and flexibility, and emphasizes mindfulness. While teaching, she offers thoughtful cues and hands-on assists to help students experience poses in proper alignment. When alignment is dialed in, she believes, the practice becomes a whole new experience.

When she’s not practicing or teaching yoga, Brenda can be found biking along the rail trails, hiking in the mountains, or kayaking on lakes all over New England.

About Erin

Erin is a 200-hour trauma-informed yoga instructor who began practicing yoga five years ago to manage stress and anxiety in her own life. Two years into her journey, she felt called to deepen her practice and learn how to share these tools with others.

She completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training through MyVinyasa Practice in 2024, and became certified as a Holy Fire Reiki I and II Practitioner in 2023.

Erin’s goal as a teacher is to help students connect with their inner depth, encouraging mental healing and offering relief from the chaos of daily life. With a passion for the mind-body connection, she loves educating others about the physiology of the brain.

Outside the studio, Erin works full-time as a registered nurse in a behavioral health hospital, specializing in child and adolescent behavioral health. She is currently pursuing credentials to become a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, with the long-term goal of offering pharmacological, non-pharmacological, psychosomatic, and holistic behavioral health services to her clients.