Our Instructors

Embark on your yoga journey with Midland Yoga Works' dedicated instructors. From seasoned yogis to specialized practitioners, our team in three vibrant cities is committed to guiding you toward wellness, balance, and self-discovery. Get to know the faces shaping our yoga community and join them on a path of empowerment for your mind, body, and spirit.

Cyndi Simpson | Owner & Instructor

I became the owner of Midland Yoga Works in 2010. Since my introduction to yoga in 1993, I've discovered the benefits of integrating asana, strength, spirituality, devotion, and presence. Achieving my E-RYT 500 in 2013, I furthered my expertise by becoming a Certified Iyengar Instructor in 2014. Continuing my study and understanding of yoga, I learn from esteemed teachers like Dean Lerner, Randy Just, Lois Steinberg, and others. Outside of yoga, I love moving, dancing, and playing with my granddaughters, Madden and Landry. If I were to sum up my life in six words, it would be, "I have an idea for that!"

Favorite Pose: Supta Padhangustasana

Kayla Crocker | Massage Therapist

Favorite Pose: Savasana

I am the owner and massage therapist of Sport to Spa Massage & Bodywork, the massage studio that operates out of Midland Yoga Works. I have a huge passion for working with women and helping them with their general wellness, pain and stress relief needs. Learn more at www.sporttospa.com.

Monica Drisdale | Instructor

I discovered yoga in 2015 and instantly fell in love with its transformative power. As a firm believer in the mind-body connection, my classes prioritize being present in the moment. I gently guide my students to explore their inner selves, nurturing emotional well-being and fostering mental clarity. Beyond the studio, I'm passionate about inspiring others to embrace yoga as a journey of self-discovery and self-love.

Favorite Pose: Ardha Chandrasana

Michal Ofer | Instructor

Michal has always been fascinated with the exploration of human kinetics, movement, energies, healthand well-being. A student first and forever learner, she loves to teach from that which is found withinher personal practice; creating and moving with fluidity and breath. Michal was introduced to yoga in 2003 which eventually led to her completing her 200-hour teacher training in 2014. This was followed by many additional hours of studies and trainings. Michal is dedicated to making yoga an invigorating experience, with challenging flows. Her mission is to empower you to embrace challenges, find resilience, and unlock your untapped potential. She loves to share this practice and is always excited to teach.

Favorite Pose: Chaturanga Dandhasana

Daron Barns | Instructor

Favorite Pose: Vibhadrasana 3

Since 2018, I've been teaching yoga, certified through Yoga By Candace and Dan Morgan in Thailand. Specializing in vinyasa flow, I've explored various styles inspired by life's journey. I strive to make yoga liberating, empowering, and enjoyable for students. Beyond studios, I've taught at community, sports, and corporate events, parties, and to kids and athletes. My goal is to keep growing in yoga to serve every student better.

Liz Binder | Instructor

I began my fitness career in 1992, starting as a personal trainer and group exercise instructor in Seattle, WA. After moving to Midland in 2005, I managed several health clubs. I completed my 200HR training with Cyndi Simpson in 2020 and my 300HR training with Michelle Young in 2022, and I'm registered with Yoga Alliance. I believe yoga is for everybody, and it's an honor to teach students how to find peace in their minds and bodies through Hatha Yoga, focusing on strength and breath awareness. I also offer Yoga Nidra to help students move between states of wakefulness and sleep, promoting self-awareness through meditation.

Favorite Pose: Malasana

Katie Joyner | Instructor

I completed my 200hr Yoga Alliance designation in 2013 and have been teaching at Midland Yoga Works ever since. I continue to deepen my understanding of yoga through study with Iyengar teachers like Dean Lerner and Randy Just. One of my most popular classes is the noon Hot Vinyasa session. When I'm not in the studio, I'm busy with my two sweet daughters, and I still manage to find time for tennis every week.

Favorite Pose: Vibhadrasana 3

Degan Fricker | Instructor

I've been immersed in group fitness instruction since 1992. With an athletic background shaping my approach, my classes prioritize whole-body integrity, cardiovascular endurance, and internal awareness. Here's to embracing quality of life in every aspect!

Favorite Pose: Plank

Ashley Belk | Instructor

My journey into yoga began unexpectedly after a car accident in 2020. What started as a path to recovery, soon turned into a deep love affair with the practice of yoga. I have experienced firsthand the challenges of injury and living with autoimmune disease. For me, the practice of yoga isn’t just about hysical movement: it is a way of life that promotes healing and resileince.

Favorite Pose: Rag Doll Forward Bend

Kristin Meaux | Instructor

Favorite Pose: Bird of Paradise

I completed my 200hr yoga training in 2020. With a passion for overall health, I see yoga as the ideal blend of mental and physical well-being. Since welcoming my son in 2022, I've found joy in supporting prenatal women as they navigate this new phase of life.

Kathryn Vega | Instructor

I discovered yoga while struggling with an auto-immune illness. After beginning a personal practice in 2013, I noticed immediate physical improvements, as well as mental sharpness and emotional stability. My initial study of Hatha Yoga began in Tucson. I have trained extensively in Yin Yoga and Unnata Aerial Yoga and is certified in Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga. I completed Radiant Spirit’s Trauma Conscious Studies as well as the 300HR YogaTeacher Training. Join me on the mat to discover clarity, strength, and flexibility in your life.I

Favorite Pose: Gomukhasana

Ashley Hooper | Instructor

I'm Ashley, a passionate yoga instructor excited to share the transformative power of yoga in Midland. With a 500-hour certification, my journey has been about continuous growth and learning. I believe yoga's beauty lies in its evolution, and I'm committed to lifelong learning. My classes aim to cultivate strength, flexibility, and excitement, welcoming you to the mat. See you there!

Favorite Pose: Vrikshasana

Daneen Marsh | Instructor

I began practicing hot vinyasa yoga in 2015 to complement my running and workout routine. After attending several yoga retreats, I was exposed to different yoga styles. Although initially challenged by the idea of slowing down, I found rejuvenation through gentle and yin yoga. This sparked my interest to delve deeper into yoga. I earned my 200-hour teacher certification and yin certification through MYW. As a licensed physical therapist, I still enjoy running, especially when it involves chasing after my three grandchildren. Currently, I teach gentle yoga at Midland Yoga Works.

Favorite Pose: Adho Mukha Svanasana

Susan Zmigrosky | Instructor

I've been practicing yoga since 2006, always seeking a balance between strength and flexibility in my teaching. I urge my students to infuse fun into their practice while moving with both sthira (steadiness) and sukha (ease). While I enjoy arm balances, Astavakrasana (eight-angle pose) holds a special place in my heart.

Favorite Pose: Astavakrasana

Hannah Durkee | Instructor

I discovered yoga in 2009 and was instantly drawn to its mind-body connection. In 2018, I completed teacher training and became a certified RYT-200 at CorePower Yoga in Fort Worth, TX, specializing in Power Yoga Vinyasa. My vinyasa classes blend breath with movement, offering energizing sequences that challenge and strengthen the body while calming the mind. Additionally, I hold 50-hour training extension certifications in power yoga and yoga sculpt, a dynamic class combining yoga postures with weights and cardio to lively music.

Favorite Pose: Parivrtta Trikonasana

Roni Perry | Instructor

Roni was introduced to Yoga in 1981 but was hooked in 2005 after attending a class with Carol Ann Chidlaw. Roni has completed her RYT 500 and her Somatic coach certification. She continues her education through workshops with senior Iyengar teachers Dean and Rebecca Learner, Linda Spackman, and Arun. Roni’s teaching style is to encourage students to listen to their bodies and adjust their practice accordingly. Her passion is to share the life giving benefits of a yoga practice with anyone that will listen.

Favorite Pose: Supta Padhangustasana

Cary Elms | Instructor

I grew up in Midland, but I fell in love with Iyengar Yoga in Lubbock in the mid-1990s. Yoga became my refuge, a means to quiet the incessant chatter of my mind. Teaching yoga became not just a passion but a calling. My journey led me to complete my Yoga Alliance 200hr Certification through Midland Yoga Works, under the tutelage of esteemed Iyengar teachers like Dean Lerner and Paula Weithman. In my classes, I offer a range of experiences, from Iyengar for beginners to Levels I and II, along with specialized sessions in Yoga for Strength and Stamina.

Favorite Pose: Utthita Trikoṇāsana

Emily Emerald | Instructor

Favorite Pose: Ardha Chandrasana

I am a believer in the healing power of yoga, through practicing poses, breathwork, and a yogic-lifestyle. Teaching yoga is a rewarding experience for me. I aim to provide a peaceful and nourishing experience for the mind, body and soul. I earned my YTT 200HR under Cyndi Simpson in 2024. 

Tonya Priestley | Instructor

Favorite Pose: Hanumanasana

Tonya was a professional dancer in Las Vegas and Tahoe. She has been in dancing and teaching all her life. She now teaches Barre at Midland Yoga Works.