Meet our Yoga/Fitness Teaching Team
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500 YTT 200 ERYT
Director of Yoga
Kathleen Kossman is co-owner of Prana Yoga & Dance Studio. She received her first Teacher Training from Jan Hauenstein TRY for Life in 1999. After teaching around the community for several years, she opened Prana Yoga & Dance Studio with her daughter Angela in 2004. Since then she has made it a priority to continue her yoga studies with many amazing teachers including Shiva Rea, Twee, and most recently Bryan Kest. She is registered through Yoga Alliance as an E-RYT. She is Director of Prana's Yoga Teacher Training: Joy and Service program. She teaches several classes a week at Prana including Beginners through Advanced classes, as well as a Chronic Pain class. She also teaches Meditation Workshops and Beginner's Workshops. She continues to teach private yoga, as well as corporate classes.
You will always find yourself being reminded to smile and have fun in one of Kathleen's classes. She loves teaching students of all levels of experience. Her classes are upbeat and welcoming. She encourages and teaches an awareness to breath and the power it has in keeping connected to what is most important, presence.
"I am so blessed to have this opportunity to share with others something that means so much to me. My hope is that people will experience at Prana Y & D the same wonderful joy that yoga has brought me.”
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Angela Kossman is an energetic and motivated certified personal trainer, fitness, and dance education instructor with over 20 years of experience. Throughout her career, she has excelled in both one-on-one and group fitness settings, specializing in working with individuals of all ages, from 2 years old to adults. Angela teaches over 20 specialty fitness classes per week and holds certifications for personal training, TRX, group fitness, and Yoga. After having her son in 2011 she developed a unique fitness and Barre program which is now called C.S.F.: cardio, strength, fitness; in effort to get back into shape. With the help of her strong dance background and Prana community, the C.S.F. Barre Program has taken off. In 2015 she developed a training program to certify other teachers in PRANA’s C.S.F. Barre Program. Angela's personal fitness journey has since led her to compete in an NPC Bikini Competition as well as the Natural Women's Bikini Competition in 2022.
Angela is highly skilled in choreography and creating personalized programs tailored to the unique needs and abilities of her clients. Her passion lies in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals by focusing on muscle building, strength training, and overall physical optimization. With Angela's expertise and dedication, clients can expect a transformative fitness experience that caters to their specific needs.
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Deb Kistner
Deb Kistner, 500 RYT, 200 E-RYT, has been teaching yoga since October 2008. Deb became a Certified Yoga Tune Up® Teacher in October of 2019, also completing the Roll Model® Method course in 2020. Deb has a 250-hour Aerial Yoga Teacher Training certificate and has completed the TRX Suspension Training Course. Deb teaches a variety of yoga, fitness, and specialty classes and workshops at Prana. She enjoys sharing her love of yoga and fitness with her students. She loves to add in new and fun ways of working out as well as learning new techniques to share during practice. Deb worked over 15 years in the corporate world as the firm administrator of a law firm as well as a corporate accountant, she keeps those skills going as Prana’s Accountant as well! Finding a regular yoga practice grounded and energized her life and she became a teacher to help others find the same. “I enjoy everything in moderation, from walking our Cleveland Metroparks, to golfing, biking, practicing yoga at Prana and traveling! Be present in each, and every moment and come from a place of PEACE!”
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RD LD RYT
Christina developed her love for yoga many years ago at Prana when she first stepped onto her mat, "At first, I just wanted to expand my exercise routine, but once I learned what yoga is truly all about, it completely changed my outlook on life." In 2013, Christina decided to expand her knowledge of the practice by completing the 200 hour yoga teacher training through Prana. Since becoming a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT), she has learned to live the yoga philosophy and hopes that this is evident through her style of practice. Christina is registered through the Yoga Alliance.
In addition to being a RYT, Christina is also a Registered Dietitian. She graduated from the University of Akron in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in mass media communications. After having a career in sales, Christina went back to school in 2009 to begin a new career; she graduated with a second Bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. She is currently working as a Registered Dietitian, "I love to teach people to not only enjoy all food, but also how to best support their body through the foundation of nutrition."
Christina believes that just as yoga is medicine for the mind, nutrition is the foundation for overall health and wellness. She offers virtual, personalized one-on-one nutrition consultations. You may contact her directly to inquire. Email: christinascalese@gmail.com
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Angela was initially introduced to yoga in her twenties and casually practiced for a while. Years later, after struggling with anxiety and panic attacks, a dear friend invited her to a class. Angela took her up on the offer. After experiencing the power of that class, she underwent a life-altering awakening and knew that a regular practice was necessary. Angela sought a yoga studio to call home, and after many recommendations, she found her way to Prana Yoga & Dance. Her regular yoga practice developed into a craving to know more about the yogic way of life, and she embarked on her 200 Yoga Teacher Training offered through Prana’s Joy & Service Program. What began as a thirst to delve deeper into her own personal journey naturally led her to share her knowledge as a teacher.
A class with Angela is a true balance of focused practice and play. Anchored in the breath while staying present in the 'now', her classes also embrace light-heartedness and laughter. "Yoga provides a steadfast grounding in oneself, but I believe laughter lightens your vibration, allowing others to lighten their own. That vibration ripples out and affects others positively."
Angela's classes are often very music-driven and step outside a typical yoga playlist. "Music is a powerful driving force, much like our heartbeat, and is another tool for remaining present on your mat. There is energy in connecting with a beat, lyric, or finding a moment of nostalgia brought on by a memory."
Classes also provide pose variations and asana modifications. "I am a mere narrator to one's practice. It is the yogi who has to do the work— of breathing and staying present, and also liberating themselves by knowing what physically feels right to them and adjusting accordingly."
Angela is energized by welcoming a new yogi to the studio and being a witness to each individual's unique journey.
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Yoga entered Melanie’s life in 2011 as a home practice to get in shape. A year after her journey began, she took her first class at Prana Yoga and Dance. She immediately felt at home, and began to see yoga as more than just a workout. Although each class was physically challenging, she began to feel the emotional effects of a regular yoga practice. Becoming more aware of her breath and learning to focus on the present were welcomed effects of practicing yoga that helped deal with the stress of a busy life. She began to feel the need to deepen her practice and the urge to share the practice with others. In September 2014, she embarked on a transformational journey of 200-hour teacher training under the guidance of Kathleen, Holly and Rowan at Prana Yoga and Dance. She completed her training in May 2015, and is registered through the Yoga Alliance.
Melanie is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Geology. As a full time Environmental Scientist and a mother of two, Melanie understands that life is busy and hopes that the time you spend in her classes brings you calm and a sense of being renewed. Melanie's love of music is mixed in with balanced yoga practices to help each student enjoy class while still being challenged.
“Yoga is a blessing you can give your body, both emotionally and physically. Yoga is for everybody and has great benefit no matter which level you are at. By showing up to class, you are giving yourself a gift.”
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Monique completed her 200 hour teacher training through the Prana Joy and Service program. She loves both the physical and the spiritual aspects of her practice and is always hungry to learn from others and keep moving on her journey. Monique has been practicing for over ten years. She is grateful to her father for taking her to her first class, she has been hooked ever since.
“Every class is different, you have to listen to your body and understand what it may need. I love reading the energy in the studio and being a part of a unique experience with my students.”
Monique found her spiritual home teaching and practicing at Prana Yoga and Dance. “The awesome community and inspiring instructors have given me so much confidence starting out as a new teacher. I love the vibe here.”
Monique is a mother of three young children and has found that yoga has enriched her family life. She strives to live her practice at home, always trying to quiet the chitta vritti and be present. Sharing this with others is her way of giving back to the yoga community. When Monique isn’t at the studio, you may find her biking, hiking, going to the lake, doing some interior design, or feeding her chickens.
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Gillian completed her 200 hour Teacher Trainng Program with Prana Joy and Service and is registered with Yoga Alliance.
"When I think of why I love yoga, I think of the word "transformation." Yoga can transform your mood, your day, your body, or your life depending on your goals and needs. Yoga has transformed my life in so many wonderful ways, both physically and mentally. I came to yoga for the asana (physical) practice but, I was surprised to realize it has calmed my mind and provided me with a peace I have never known. I can't wait to share my love of yoga with you and to see where your yoga journey takes you."
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Brittany was introduced to yoga through videos at home while searching for a way to increase flexibility, relieve stress and ease her busy mind. Eventually she took her first public class with Maita Diaz and was instantly attracted to the energy of the room. She's drawn to the mat day after day by the power of vinyasa practice and the balance of finding stillness in asanas. The positive shift in her mental and physical wellbeing inspired her to embark on a journey of daily yoga practice and study at Maui Yoga Shala. She has been teaching yoga since completing her 200 hour teaching training in January 2018.
"Yoga has brought me a sense of patience and acceptance for the present moment. It is my mission to offer and environment where you can invite space into your body and find bounty in your breath."
Brittany believes yoga is for every body. She loves to offer many modifications and encourages students to tailor a class to fit their needs. Through asana she will invite you to connect with sensation and let go of any clutter that stands between you and the present moment.
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Carrie is a Barre C.S.F. Certified instructor at Prana Yoga & Dance. Being active in sports and dance throughout her childhood, Carrie developed a love of fitness at an early age. That love grew into a way of life as an adult. After having her third child, Carrie was wanting to get back to a consistent workout routine. She started taking barre classes at Prana and became hooked. Feeling more energized and strong after each session, she kept coming back week after week. Eventually in 2016, Carrie decided that she wanted to become an instructor. That summer, she received her Barre C.S.F. Certification at Prana. Carrie then taught barre classes for two and a half years at NRDA. In May 2019, an opportunity arose to be an instructor at Prana. Carrie was excited to be back “home” and has been teaching there since. She hopes to inspire others in their fitness journeys and encourages an overall healthy life style through proper nutrition and exercise. One of Carrie’s favorite quotes is, “Motivation is what gets you started, but persistence is the only thing that guarantees your success.”
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Abby completed her 200 hour teacher training through the Prana Joy and Service program and is registered with Yoga Alliance.
Yoga became a part of her life during college while she was teaching group fitness classes at Ohio State recreation center. She found yoga to be a complimentary balance to the cardio and strength classes she was teaching. Yoga helped her to slow down and have an awareness of the breath amidst an over-stimulated and fast paced society. She developed a consistent home yoga practice which was a pivotal tool that she would turn to time and time again while dealing with life stressors. Yoga was instrumental to her while navigating postpartum depression and anxiety.
Yoga means so much to her. For a long time it was about exercise, being healthy, and finding her breath. Now, her yoga practice has evolved and is so much more. Yoga challenges her, it helps her find her balance, it encourages her to be creative, it makes her a better partner, mother, and friend.
Abby loves to share the benefits of yoga with all those around her - from the strength of the poses, to the power of the breath, to living a yogic way of life both on and off the mat. She encourages others to get curious and tap into their inner self through regular practice and breath-work. She is a firm believer that a little goes a long way - the hardest part is showing up. Showing up on the mat is the greatest gift you can give yourself and those around you.
In addition to being a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT), Abby is also a Certified Nurse-Midwife and Family Nurse Practitioner. She loves caring for women and families across the lifespan. She is a mom of three and when she's not at the studio you can find her with her family - hiking, biking, camping or on some outdoor adventure.
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Mary began practicing yoga regularly in 2012 after the loss of her mom. Mary found herself grieving and she found herself at one doctor appointment after another, trying to relieve the physical and mental ailments that accompanied her grief. One of Mary’s close friends suggested that she try yoga — to bring herself to the mat, to learn to breathe, and to be in the present moment. Along with yoga positively affecting Mary’s physical body, she also felt her mind and spirit begin to rejuvenate.
Forward to 2023— Mary completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training via Prana’s Joy and Service program. In all the years Mary has been practicing, there have been many joys and much sorrow, but through it all, day after day, year after year, Mary continued to deepen her understanding and practice. When Mary was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Mary learned how to become comfortable making modifications to her life. It was under the guidance and encouragement of Kathleen Kossman that she began to understand Kathleen’s maxim — “A truly experienced yogi may not be the one who can do the deepest version of the pose, but rather someone who knows to listen to their body and adjust as needed.”
According to Mary, “When a friend of mine authored her book ‘Seeking’, she asked me to give input on her draft, little did I know that this would be the final nudge I needed, to listen to the whispers of my heart and follow something I had been debating for years. I looked off the side of my desk, pursued my passion project, and took the leap of faith to become a yoga instructor. I am forever grateful for my faith and for the constant support of my family, friends, and fellow yogis, all of whom continue to give me courage every day.”
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Lindsay holds Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Exercise and Sport Science and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, with a background in personal training, cardiac rehabilitation, and cardiac stress testing.
She currently works as a PRN PACU nurse and brings a strong blend of clinical knowledge, movement experience, and passion for sustainable health. Lindsay loves exercises that build real strength and control push-ups, pull-ups, and planks are her go-to’s.
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In 2016, Jessica discovered the magic of yoga and Shamanic practices through Ray Crist’s “The Jaguar Path” program in Massachusetts. The journey was about building strength, calmness, healing, flexibility, and engaging with a deeper sense of self. This experience ignited a desire to share these healing tools with others, so upon her RYT 200 certification and Yoga Alliance registration in 2016, Jessica started leading weekly classes for the Village of Cuyahoga Heights community.
Since childhood, Jessica knew she had a passion for teaching. With over 20 years of experience, Jessica is a full-time high school English teacher with a bachelor's degree in Integrated Language Arts from Cleveland State University, a master's degree in Instructional Technology from the University of Akron, and, most recently, a master’s degree in English from Cleveland State University. Outside of the four-walled classrooms, Jessica loves spending time with her family, hiking in the Cleveland Metroparks, keeping her nose in a good book, and adventuring in national parks.
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Chris started yoga with Kathleen in 2002, after being diagnosed with fibromyalgia and arthritis in both knees as a way to deal with the pain. After a few years of yoga and outdoor walking the pain started to fade. As she got older it was increasingly harder to walk outdoors in inclement weather. She found a fabulous indoor walking routine that she loved so much that when Leslie Sansone and the Walk at Home team offered a program to become certified to teach the class live, she signed up.
Chris says: “I am forever grateful to Kathleen for giving me the opportunity to teach my first class in 2013 here at Prana.”
Walk Live is a fun, fast paced, high intensity, low impact indoor walking program. We move every muscle group in every direction, all set to great music, and as a bonus we do some strength training using resistance bands. You can find Chris’s class on Wednesday mornings at 10 am.
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While travelling abroad on her personal healing journey, Lesley discovered the power of sound and frequency to restore harmony and balance in her mind and body. Reigniting her soul’s purpose and desire to help others heal themselves, she pursued training and certifications in the therapeutic modality of sound with a wide array of sound instruments including Tibetan singing bowls, Crystal Alchemy singing bowls, Tuning Forks, Drums, Gongs, Stringed Instruments, Voice, Vibroacoustic devices and Cymatherapy.
She has since founded Cleveland Sound Healing bringing informed evidence-based sound therapy to Northeast Ohio. She collaborates with yoga studios, wellness centers, private groups including corporate wellness, primary education schools, and individuals seeking immersive self-care experiences and peace for the mind and body.
Through her continued education with the therapeutic modality of sound, Lesley has a deep understanding of proper and safe ways using sound and frequency when working with individuals and groups. She is passionate in her gift to bring health and wellbeing through the power of sound and frequency.
Lesley brings a calm and grounded energy to her individual and group sound-based programs, enabling clients to feel relaxed, clear headed and awakened by inner peace.
Credentials:
Level 2 Certified Sound Healing Practitioner
100 hour Sound Healing Certification, 200 hour C/R Yoga Teacher
Continued Education Courses: Voice Medicine through Sound Ceremony, Advanced Sound Therapy courses through Globe Institute of Sound
Professional Memberships:
Medical Sound Association Member
Yoga Alliance
ISTA certified