When Michelle Kelly first stepped into a Modo Yoga class at the age of 17, she wasn’t chasing transformation. She simply said “yes” to her mom’s curious suggestion to try what she’d heard was “yoga in a sauna.” What followed was one hour of sweaty postures, stifled giggles with her sister, and the unforgettable realization that – yes – even kneecaps can sweat.
“I remember walking out of the room and saying to my family, ‘I had no idea my kneecaps could sweat like that.’”
What began as a light-hearted family outing became something far more lasting: a steady practice, a source of community, and a path toward purpose.
Michelle’s adventures with Modo Yoga didn’t come with a dramatic before-and-after story. Instead, her relationship with the practice evolved slowly and naturally.
“It started as an evening activity with my mom, sister, neighbour, and best friend. But I couldn’t have predicted the long-term, slow-burn relationship I was getting myself into.”
From energy exchanging and front desk shifts to friendships with teachers and studio owners, her role within the community deepened. Eventually, a studio owner suggested something that sparked her curiosity: Have you ever thought about taking Teacher Training?
At first, Michelle was hesitant. Teaching wasn’t necessarily on her radar. But when she found out the training was happening in Brazil, that sealed it.
“I wasn’t too sure about the whole becoming-a-yoga-teacher thing, but my goodness did I ever think the studio owner and teachers were cool. And when I heard the training was in Brazil, suddenly it was an adventure I couldn’t pass up.”
The trip alone was an odyssey: a plane, a taxi, a bus, a boat and a truck to land right by the ocean for the next month — a month of incredible connection, self-discovery, challenge, and growth.
“Training kind of blew my mind. Practicing the Modo series twice a day, learning yoga history, teaching philosophy, anatomy, swimming in the bioluminescent waters, savasana foot rubs – all of this shared with incredibly fun people from all over the world.… it felt expansive.”
The training wasn’t just physically demanding — it also stretched Michelle mentally and emotionally.
“It was intense, in an empowering way. I remember feeling very supported by the group of teachers and the other trainees. It gave me space to consider some bigger questions about what felt important to me and what more I wanted to explore in my life.”
Perhaps the most surprising part of the experience? “That I actually wanted to teach!”
Michelle has since taught in Sherwood Park, Vancouver, Las Vegas, Seattle, Montreal, and on the Modo Yoga Teacher Training faculty — supporting others through the same process of growth she once experienced.
“Being a teacher today means showing up, paying attention, and seeing if I can help someone breathe a little easier by the end of class.”
For her, mentoring new teachers is one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
“I love seeing people take up space in ways they weren’t sure they could—or should. I know how vulnerable those early teaching days can feel. It’s a privilege to sit close while someone’s nervous and doing the thing anyway.”
Advice for Anyone Feeling “Not Ready”
Teacher Training can seem intimidating, especially if you’re not sure whether you want to teach. But Michelle reminds us: there’s no one-size-fits-all reason to take the leap.
“If it’s not the time, that’s okay! There’s no rush. But if it is the time and you’re nervous? That’s totally normal. Just show up — we’ll help you take it from there.”
Her advice to new teachers is refreshingly simple: Be yourself. Be human. Be gentle. And celebrate every small victory.
“New teachers often put so much pressure on themselves to show up a certain way. I like to remind trainees that a yoga teacher is just a human who teaches yoga. Keep it simple, be human.”
Michelle speaks often about the power of consistency in the Modo sequence. “There’s something so grounding about having a familiar space to return to. It offers structure — a kind of steadiness — and creates room to explore.”
Over the years, her personal practice has shifted with her life — sometimes energetic and physical, sometimes quiet and introspective. But it has always provided balance and a place to reconnect.
Among the Modo Pillars, one stands out most to Michelle: Be Community.
“Modo studios have felt like little homes in different cities. I’ve met some of my closest friends through this practice. There’s something powerful about practicing next to other people – we feel less alone. And often that simple reminder is enough to regulate a nervous system.”
Michelle’s hope for the next generation of Modo Yoga teachers is clear:
“I hope to see more diverse voices, perspectives, and lived experiences in yoga spaces–reflecting the full spectrum of who yoga is for. And being new at something often means being more creative, more adaptable, and more willing to question the norm. We need these qualities in a community to keep evolving and thriving.”
Michelle’s story reminds us that yoga teacher training isn’t just about learning how to lead a class — it’s about discovering what you care about, who you are, and how you want to show up in the world.
Our next Modo Yoga Foundational Teacher Training runs from July 20–August 2 at Modo Yoga Erin Mills. This immersive 2-week program is designed for anyone looking to deepen their practice, step into leadership, or explore new possibilities — on and off the mat.
Whether you want to teach or are simply craving a deeper connection to yourself and your community, this could be the next right step.
Ready to explore where your practice could take you?
📞 Book a call with our teacher training team to ask questions and see if it’s the right fit — no pressure.
📚 Learn more about our upcoming teacher trainings