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 too.) 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.
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!
Nyah Wells
Hi yogis, I’m Nyah! I’m a certified yoga teacher with training in Vinyasa, Hatha & Bikram. After getting certified I spent time traveling and teaching in different parts of the world, with people from all walks of life. It was one of the most beautiful, eye-opening experiences, and it reminded me how powerful this practice is no matter where you are.
Eventually, I felt called to come back home to Boise & be part of the community here. Yoga has brought me back to myself over and over again, and it’s something I’m so passionate about. In my classes, I try to create space for people to reconnect—to breathe, to feel strong, to feel safe. I like to keep things grounded, intentional, & real. So excited to be here part of the Authentic Yoga community & grow with you all.
Charity Grace (Beynun)
Charity spent nearly 20 years as a dedicated student before answering the deeper calling to teach. After years of battling depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, it was stepping into teaching that helped her heal, rebuild her nervous system, and reconnect with my purpose. Yoga changed her life — and honestly, probably saved it.
This journey led Charity to learn as much as she could about yoga, Ayurveda, and trauma recovery practices, earning her certifications as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 200) and YACEP provider. She specialize in nervous system regulation through yin yoga, mindful movement, and breathwork. She is also a Sound Bath practitioner and has been fortunate enough to have hosted thousands of students through vibrational healing.
When she’s not chasing the thrill of scuba diving in Thailand, or riding scooters through Nicaragua, you’ll find her teaching all styles of yoga classes and hosting immersive sound baths events in Boise, Idaho.
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’.
Julie Hart
Julie Hart is a passionate and experienced yoga teacher based in Boise, Idaho, offering classes in Hatha, Power, Restorative, and Yin Yoga. Her teaching style blends strength, stillness, and soul, Julie creates space for students to move mindfully, breathe deeply, and reconnect with themselves.
A proud graduate of both Boise State University and Gonzaga University, Julie brings a thoughtful, grounded approach to her teaching. Her classes are informed by years of study, a lifelong commitment to wellness, and the joys and challenges of balancing a full family and professional life.
Julie add to her yoga communities by focus on empowerment, connection, and holistic wellbeing. Whether you’re flowing through a dynamic Power class or sinking into stillness in Yin, you’ll find her teaching both accessible and deeply enriching.
Off the mat, Julie is a devoted wife to Larry, a software engineer, and a proud mom of three incredible kids: Ella (21), currently pursuing nursing at College of Western Idaho; Wesley (20), studying Civil Engineering at the University of Idaho; and Harry (17), a senior at Boise High School. The family wouldn’t be complete without Yogi and Booberry, their two beloved dogs who live up to their playful names.
Julie’s yoga journey is rooted in community, family, and the belief that there’s a practice for everyone, whether you’re just beginning or years into your path.
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.
More Teacher’s Bios Coming Soon
Check out our amazing teaching staff at either of our locations.
