Tree of Life - Instructor Bios



	Carrie Bristol Longtime fitness enthusiast, Carrie discovered the benefits of the Pilates Method in an effort to restore muscle imbalances in the body after a back injury. Thrilled by the exceptional results of a healthier back through core strengthening, she became determined to teach. Carrie completed her Pilates Instructor Training through Studio Surge in Birmingham, MI, recognized by the Pilates Method Alliance.

	Sundance DiDomenico Sundance found his path to the drum 17 years ago, for healing and community building. He has been studying, teaching, and building drums ever since. Sundance has searched for cultural meaning in Senegal, Guinea, and Brazil; in order to understand where this music comes from. Thru his discovery of spiritual drumming in West Africa, Brazil, Cuba, and Haiti; he has found that the true drummer's path comes from within. Learn to listen to your heart, and find your own song!

	Jennifer Giacomelli (Jenabah) Jennifer is the artistic director of “Tree of Life Cultural Arts Studio” and is the founder and choreographer for “Tree of Life Drum and Dance Society.” She has been studying a variety of dance styles for over 25 years, and teaching to students of all ages for 12. At the age of 5, she began studying ballet, tap and jazz. Soon there after, her focused turned towards: modern, jazz and hip hop. In 1998 Jennifer performed and taught for Universal Dance Association, a dance company that travels nation wide teaching high school dance ensembles choreography, technique and more. In addition, she taught for Creative Dance Arts, School of Dance in Tucson, Az for 7 years. During this time, she was introduced to dance styles from different cultures. Intrigued by music and dance from the African diaspora, Jennifer has been studying with master dance instructors within the United States as well as in Guinea, West Africa. She was a principal dancer for Domba, Tribal Fusion Drum and Dance Ensemble, and is a current member of Likewater Drum and Dance in Chelsea, Michigan.

	Mara Evans Mara Evans, MTP holds a Masters in Transpersonal Psychology with specialization in Spiritual Psychology as well as Organizational Development. She is a level III Practitioner/Teacher of the Reiki healing system and has also received training in vibrational healing and intuitive development. With an academic background in anthropology, religious studies and psychology, Mara has particular insight into the dynamic interplay of collective, social and individual consciousness. She is currently developing a program to help businesses apply values-based approaches to management and leadership as well as opening a counseling practice for individuals and couples. She is committed to the process of actively integrating spirituality into every aspect of life.

	Manhoso Van L. Robins, also known as Manhoso (pronounced mawn-yo-so) in the Capoeira world, started training with the group Mandinga during the summer of 1998 along with his brother Quiabo and close childhood friends Sho Grande and Baiano. He continued to train under the supervision of Trovoada, a student of Mestre Marcelo, for 5 years. During this time he learned a great deal of history, music, and philosophy behind the movements. In a short time he began to assist in presentations and assisted in teaching classes. Manhoso has also participated in a number of workshops and promotional ceremonies.

	Craig Parian Bio coming soon.

	Valkyrie After a severe car accident shattered both of her knees, Valkyrie began a quest to find a practice that would result not only in the healing of her physical body, but also her spirit. After years of a dedicated yoga practice she attended Bikrams Yoga College of India and became a certified instructor. Well versed in other forms of Hatha Yoga, Valkyrie believes Yoga to be one of the most powerful tools for transforming the body and the mind. Valkyrie is also a certified massage therapist.