Mary Polite

My journey with Jiva Yoga Center began when I was simply searching for a new workout routine. But it didn’t take long to realize I had found something far more profound. As I moved through each class, I felt my body becoming longer, stronger, and more spacious—but even more striking was the shift happening within. I began to understand that yoga wasn’t just movement—it was a mindset, an attitude, and a beautiful, intentional way of living. I was hooked.

With a 30-year career in education and administration across elementary, secondary, and university settings, I’ve always had a passion for teaching and supporting others in their growth. As my yoga practice deepened, I knew I wanted to share this path with others. I completed my 200-hour teacher training with Jean Rioux and Vicki Rickard at Jiva Yoga Center, a life-changing experience that opened my heart to the deeper dimensions of the practice.

Through continued study of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, I’ve come to embrace the spiritual essence of yoga—how I want to feel not only on my mat, but in my teaching and in my life. I’ve since completed my 300-hour training, much of it guided by the wise mentorship of Vicki Rickard, and hold an ERYT-500 designation as well as YACEP certification through Yoga Alliance.

It is a true honor to teach yoga and support others in discovering the power, peace, and joy that arise from a devoted and loving practice.