Yoga Friends offers goal-centered,
adaptive practices utilizing appropriate, customized tools of yoga therapy. Sessions may include targeted yoga postures, breath
work, soothing sound, hand positioning, concentration, mindfulness, meditation, relaxation and visualization practices.
With her warm and nurturing spirit, Owner and Founder, Ann Brownfield Meara helps kids and teens
of all abilities make connections within themselves and the world around them. She has served the special needs community since
2006.
An IAYT certified yoga therapist, Ann works individually with children and teens in homes, schools
and family service and health settings. She collaborates with both parent
and child as well as other professionals to understand student goals and needs. For each student, Ann develops and facilitates
a recommended supportive practice.
Ann is a gentle and kind Yoga Therapist and we are so grateful for the many ways she has helped our daughter to
blossom over the past year. Thank
you, Ann!
Yoga Friends Parent,
Kenilworth, Illinois
Ann Brownfield Meara, Owner and Founder
M.S., C-IAYT, E-RYT 500, R-CYT, C-Meditation
A pioneer in the field of adaptive, goal centered practice
Ann is a
Certified Yoga Therapist with 12 years in the field of adaptive, goal centered practice. She is a member of the International
Association of Yoga Therapists, one of the first recognized by the organization as a seasoned professional in the field.
A graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and its certificate
program in art therapy, Ann is creative and multi-faceted. She draws from modalities such as mantra, yantra and tarka (sound,
symbol, writing/reflection) to enhance the yoga practice and meet student goals. Ann is also certified in meditation.
A Yoga Therapist to children/teens of all abilities since 2006, Ann founded and
owns Yoga Friends for Kids. She is a registered children’s yoga teacher.
Ann works extensively with kids and teens with Autism, Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and learning differences
privately and within a high school special education department. Her goal centered, adaptive yoga therapy approach has been
equally successful with general education children, teens and adults.
Ann offers support in the Chicago area—within a children's hospital, in special education and through private
practice with adult and youth clientele.
