Founder – Amanda Mendez
I was born and raised right here in Boise, ID. I honestly had no idea what yoga was or what I was getting myself into when I wandered my way into a hot yoga class to “get in shape”. It was exactly what I needed physically but most importantly I received so much more than just a physical transformation. I found my practice when I needed it the most. I was caring for my mom with terminal cancer and dealing with my own personal home life, which seemed like a nightmare. This practice allowed me an escape out of the “mandatory reality” outside the studio doors…which we call “my wreck of a life”. Yoga was a love hate thing for me at first, it was hard, challenging, some days really hard to go, most practices at some point I wanted to give up multiple times, but I kept coming back. I kept showing up. More than just my practice was improving, I was evolving as well and my life was changing with it. The fact I was slowly but surely getting myself out a place I never thought I’d be able to lead me on the path to teaching this power and potent tool. I dove straight in, I had a lot of work to get done saving humans with yoga. As I let myself grow both as a teacher and a student, putting so many hours of practice into both I began to understand the power we can cultivate within us to do amazing things. (Yes, I would “practice” teaching but I’ll tell you it’s the staying a student that is the magic secret.) Eventually here I was, opening my own studios & leading teacher trainings and retreats around the world, being able to share my practice and teaching at a much deeper level. I’ve been grateful for the many teaching hours, students, and experiences both yoga and life that continue to help me be a better teacher, leader, and truly lean into being authentically myself.
Amanda Mendez- Teaching since February 2015, Baptiste Yoga Certified, 200 E-RYT, YACEP Provider, Specialty working with Athletes/teams/active groups & individuals to use yoga for training. Also working with First Responders using yoga to empower and help with on the job situations, stress, anxiety while physically strengthening the body. Keeping them prepared both physically & mentally. She has over 13,000 Teacher hours and is Head Trainer for Authentic Yoga’s Teacher Training Program, leads yoga retreats all over the world, Authentic Yoga Retreats.
Leah VanBlaricom
Born and raised in Boise, ID, I found myself in my first yoga class my junior year of high school. Towards the end of my senior year, I started to become a more regular practitioner. With hopes of changing the way my body looked, I kept coming back because of the effects it had on my mind. As graduation approached college didn’t feel right at the time; so I received my 200-RYT certificate.
As I transition into adulthood this practice has become my space. Space to breathe, to check in, and to feel everything on and off the mat. I feel so fortunate to find this practice so early in my life I feel responsible to share it everywhere I can. I enjoy working with modifications and showing people they are capable conquering what you think you can’t.
Nicki Babkowski
Yoga found me when I needed it most. I was a newly retired gymnast who moved away from home to college in pursuit of going to medical school. With so many life changes that came my way all at once, I felt like I had lost control of myself and my life. One afternoon, I randomly signed up for my first yoga class with no idea what to expect from it. It immediately became my new favorite activity. Yoga gives me the space to let my mind slow down and stay in the present moment in the midst of my ambitious life path. Yoga helps me practice a newfound awareness of my body and my thoughts, and at the time helped me regain a sense of belonging within myself.
Originally from Connecticut, I moved to Boise for medical school two years ago with a similar feeling of anxiety and anticipation. Signing up for a class at Authentic Yoga was one of the first things I did, and this space has since become a home away from home. From the start, I was welcomed, encouraged and I felt like I had a community that would always be there for me. As a yoga teacher, I strive to create this same environment for my students. I completed my 200-hr RYT through Authentic Yoga in July 2022, and have enjoyed every moment of being in the studio both as a student and a teacher.
My Journey into Power classes are focused on connecting breath to movement, with opportunities to practice body awareness, mindfulness and gratitude. My goal is to hold space for exploration, challenge, relaxation and healing, to grow both physically and mentally. I can’t wait
to see you on your mat!
Anna Noto
I found yoga my sophomore year of college at Boise State. I signed up to take my first hot yoga class in an effort to manage my stress and anxiety. Sounds cliche, but little did I know that signing up for that one class would completely change my life. It quickly became an everyday thing. School, yoga, sleep, repeat. Sometime 2 or 3 classes a day. I could feel a transformation happening within myself, but I didn’t quite know what it was. All I knew was that the more yoga I was doing = the kinder human I was to myself, and other people. Being on a college student budget, I knew I needed to figure out a way to prioritize paying for a membership. I don’t know how, but I did. I went through yoga teacher training in 2020 and started teaching quickly after. And I’ve never looked back. It’s a part of me now. Yoga goes far beyond what we do on our mat, it’s a way to live life. Letting go of expectations, creating self discipline, releasing attachments to people, things, outcomes. Trusting the process.. no matter how hard life gets. I teach how I want to be taught: loud (and GOOD) music, powerful words, and the freedom to do and move however feels good in that moment. I can’t wait to see you on your mat.
All my love and light!
Terri Blount
Introducing Terri Blount, a dedicated and passionate yoga instructor who has been guiding students on their yoga journey for over two decades. Originally hailing from Southern California, Terri made the life-changing decision to move to Boise at the age of 19 to pursue her college education at Boise State University. She fell in love with the area and decided to make it her home, purchasing a cozy little house that became a sanctuary for her.
At the young age of 22, Terri discovered her passion for group exercise and began teaching classes. For years, she immersed herself in cardio workouts and weightlifting, until one transformative moment led her to a hot yoga class. The challenge and the warmth of the practice captivated her, especially during the cold winters, and she embarked on a five-week journey to Arizona to obtain her yoga 200 certification.
Returning to Boise, Terri found herself with a teaching opportunity waiting for her. For over three years, she dedicated herself to teaching more than 300 classes in a hot yoga studio located in the east end of town. However, despite her extensive experience, she felt there was a deeper understanding of yoga that she had yet to uncover.
Taking a leap of faith, Terri decided to switch studios and stepped into Authentic Yoga. From the moment she walked through the doors, she felt an immediate connection to the studio’s genuine and authentic atmosphere. Love, peace, harmony, acceptance, and a profound sense of safety enveloped her. This transformative experience rekindled her love for yoga, and she found the missing piece she had been seeking. Grateful for the beautiful community at Authentic Yoga, Terri felt blessed to become a part of their family and to have the privilege of leading yoga classes.
Outside of her yoga practice, Terri cherishes her incredible husband and family, with whom she spends a significant amount of time. Having resided in NW Boise for over 20 years, they relish the proximity to the breathtaking foothills, indulging in activities such as biking, hiking, and enjoying the company of their beloved dogs while immersing themselves in nature’s stunning vistas.
With deep gratitude, Terri extends her appreciation to Authentic Yoga Studios, her yoga family of both teachers and students, for providing an authentic community that has enriched her life in immeasurable ways. Each day, she approaches her classes with reverence and enthusiasm, eager to guide her students on their own transformative journeys.
Namaste’.
Carlie Strom
I was born and raised in Idaho & moved back to Boise after graduating from Eastern Washington University with a B.S. in Exercise Science Pre-Physical Therapy. My yoga journey began in 2016 when I signed up for a yoga class to complete my degree. I avoided going for as long as possible before finally realizing I wasn’t going to graduate if I didn’t attend. My life was changed for the better and I suddenly regretted not going to class sooner.
I had struggled with anorexia for most of my life and was diagnosed with severe arthritis in my lumbar spine at only 21, this was my breaking point. I was going to die if I didn’t make a change and that’s when yoga literally saved my life. I was suddenly moving my body in ways I didn’t think was possible anymore and built up the strength and courage to fight back. I started to become consistent with my practice when I realized the rehabilitative benefits it had both mentally and physically. Being on my mat allows me to let go of things beyond my control and gives me the space to set things aside and just be present. I wanted to become a teacher so badly, but didn’t connect with any of the studios I attended..until I found Authentic. I completed my teacher training with Authentic in the Fall of 2021 and have been teaching ever since!
When I’m not in the studio you can find me hiking with my Toy Australian Shepard, golfing, kayaking, or snowboarding! I hope to see you on your mat soon!
Sarah Lowry
Meet Sarah Lowry. Born and raised in Idaho, you’ll find Sarah attempting to find any sliver of sunshine to spend her time in. Sarah loves to be outdoors. She loves to spend the majority of her time with her family, which includes her husband, son, daughter, and dog. Sarah has major wanderlust and enjoys traveling to new places. She loves fashion, hiking, reading, doing puzzles, being creative, and of course, yoga.
Sarah has been part of the Authentic Yoga Family since our grand opening in 2018. You’ll find her involved with anything involving kids at our studio. Sarah received her specialized children’s yoga certification through Shanti Yoga School and is a certified children’s yoga instructor. She received her RYT 200 through the Authentic Yoga Training Program. Sarah has a passion for working with children and is also a certified behavioral interventionist and developmental specialist. She’s worked with children of all ages for over 20 years and has a special place in her heart for children with disabilities.
When she’s not teaching kids or family yoga, you’ll find her around the community teaching a variety of classes including gentle yoga, yin yoga, and adaptive classes. Sarah is looking forward to practicing with you and to have your kids join her on her mat for fun, interactive, and mindful kids’ yoga classes.
Alicia Bendeck
Alicia began her yoga journey in 2014, and hasn’t looked back since. After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, Alicia has used the healing powers of yoga to help restore her health and strength, physically and mentally.
Alicia completed her 200-hour RYT in 2016 and immediately shifted her focus to teaching a Bikram-style Hot 26 class. Along with practicing yoga, Alicia enjoys spending time with her husband, is completely obsessed with her dog, Luigi and loves college football.
Amanda Sandmeyer
Bio coming soon!
