Teacher Feature! Get to know Melissa Robinson!

1. You just got back from an International trip! Tell us where you went and your biggest takeaway!

I Just got home from an amazing adventure in Morocco! I am still so in awe of the diverse beauty of the landscape, the kindness of the people, and of course the food. We were lucky enough to take in the magic of the Sahara, the Atlas mountains, the breathtaking Todra Gorge, as well as the cities of Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech. Whew! I am still finding sand in my clothes and suitcase-Riding a camel in the desert as the full moon rose was a dream come true...Travel truly fills my cup beyond measure- plus in Morocco there were cats everywhere- bonus! My biggest takeaway is that no matter how far you travel, or where you find yourself in the world, the beauty of the human spirit always makes you feel at home...so grateful!

2. Crafty mama! Tell us about your day job and your side hustle of making incredible jewelry...

For about 24 years I have been teaching metalsmithing, sculpture/ceramics, and a college level studio class to High School students- they keep me laughing and teach me so much about the creative process! My job as an art teacher inspired my side hustle, as I felt that to truly continue to love my job, I needed to continue to let my artist self breathe and grow! I began making jewelry about 10 years ago, and realized how powerful it is to not only make art, but to make art that is wearable...I LOVE creating pieces that create a sense of empowerment- or connection to nature and wild beauty that is within us all. There is something so beautiful about heating metal, hammering, sawing, and seeing a vision come to life. It is so humbling to see people wearing my work, and to be able to engage with a community of creative, soulful people that I meet at markets and events.

3. What are you currently offering at Be Free?

Currently, I offer a Thursday evening class called Move to Melt. This class is such a lovely way to find a balance between flow and groundedness as we move through Qi-Gong inspired meditative movements and into restorative postures. My goal is to help everyone who comes to my class find breath, ease, and true rest. I bring my love of art and creativity to my class by offering a tiny craft, something from nature, or mini artwork that I have made for students to use in their journals after class as we reflect, and integrate our practice before heading back out into the world. I am so grateful to the beautiful community of Be Free for making me feel so at home and so loved on my yoga teacher journey. I am also SO excited to be collaborating this weekend with my talented and dreamy friend Celeste to teach a crafternoon solstice workshop that involves making a goddess pendant and solar printmaking- please join us from 2- 4:30 PM Sunday the 21st if you can🏵️

4. What is lighting you up this summer?

My 12 year old son has found a passion for fishing...It has been so cool to see him light up as he catches bass, carp, and bluegill here near our house! Having a chance to slow down and breathe a bit with family in summer is such a gift. I take my dog for long walks, read, make jewelry, and put together sweet playlists for yoga, haha! My partner Joe makes me get out and go thrifting for treasures, and you may see me rollerblading down spring creek trail!

I hope to see you soon and thank you for taking the time to get to know a little more about me🌠