Alexa J. Rittichier
she/they
“The dance of life brings seasons of great change; for me they have been things like divorce, pregnancy, parenthood. In these seasons I have found an enlarged need for self-compassion. I hear my own voice, the voices of societal expectations, the voices I imagine judging me, and I often am not very nice to myself in those moments when I need it most - when I am not capable of doing more than I already am. Recognizing my limits and operating within them is an expression of self-compassion.
We live in a society of more is more, of telling others exactly how they “should” live their life, of access to research around the absolute “best” way to do everything. There is an overwhelming amount of information available in the click of a button or swipe of a screen. It is so easy to get distracted from the present moment and one’s own desires and needs. In the moments when it feels like everything is closing in around you, where you don’t even know which voice is your own anymore, I implore you to reach for self-compassion.”
Alexa is an artist, mover, maker, yoga and movement teacher, birth doula, anatomy geek, and perinatal exercise specialist. She has been dancing her whole life and practicing yoga for over 20 years. Teaching, tutoring and mentoring have been part of Alexa’s life since 2005. She has taught visual art, creative movement, drama, dance, and yoga in a variety of settings to all ages from 3-years-old and up. Alexa has been training yoga teachers since 2016.
Alexa was introduced to yoga in 2001 after a hospitalization from a rare blood disorder in which she was not expected to recover. Through the practice of yoga, Alexa began a journey of relearning herself physically, emotionally and spiritually. This is probably why she is so passionate about coming alongside people as they go through transformative experiences.
Throughout her years of practice Alexa has explored various styles and lineages of yoga. She has taught a variety of populations, ages, and ability levels. The emphasis in Alexa’s classes is on alignment, accessibility, personal power and connecting with self. Alexa is a relatable and compassionate teacher who is dedicated to meeting students where they are. She continues to learn and study to bring the latest research and techniques to students and clients.
She offers birth doula services and in-person yoga classes in Portland, Oregon. Alexa is also involved in multiple yoga teacher training programs, and offers specialty workshops online and in-person throughout the year.
When not teaching, you can find Alexa chasing her two young children through nature or having raucous dance parties!