Originally from Minneapolis, Dara began her movement journey as a child through dance, choreographing routines for and with her friends. Fast forward to 2007 where she attended Perpich Center for Arts Education and majored in Dance. She continued her dance training at Columbia College Chicago, earning a BA in Dance and Choreography. Throughout her time at these schools, she was introduced to Pilates, Yoga and Massage Therapy. She learned how critical it is to use cross-training and self-care to keep in peak condition and feel one’s best.  

Since graduating college in 2009, she has become proficient in all three disciplines, and more.  

Dara graduated from Cortiva Institute in 2010. Her modalities include Trigger Point, Sports, Pre/Post Natal, Cupping, John Barnes Myofascial Release, Thai Reflexology, Table Thai, along with energy work. Dara has also taken Pilates training with FFC Classical/Power Pilates, Pilates Chicago and The Pilates Center of Boulder, CO where she received her Pilates Diploma. Additionally, Dara has completed Yoga programs through CorePower Yoga, The Yoga Collective, and Deep Academy. She has also taken multiple Barre trainings. Her background helps with and anatomical and kinesiological approaches in addition to addressing one’s nervous system from an energetic standpoint. This aids in her ability to teach and relate to anyone, from children to elderly, as well as specific cases and populations such as those with sight impairment, stroke, and spinal cord injuries.

Additionally, Dara is a Certified Canine Massage Therapist and credits part of her heightened sensitivity with humans from her work with dogs. She thrives on learning, growing, and having new experiences each day.