Maria Eugenia Garré
MEd, C-IAYT, C-AP, c-AYT, ERYT500
Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner + Yoga Therapist | Movement Specialist
Connecting you to your True Essence to Live a Happy, Abundant Life
Hello! Allow me to introduce myself. My journey spans continents and cultures, reflecting my deep commitment to health, wellness, and spirituality. I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, raised in the United States, and now call Costa Rica home, with a profound love for India woven into my life.
Medicine runs in my blood, with a lineage steeped in Biology and disease prevention complemented by the mystical influence of my grandmothers. This unique blend of science and spirituality has shaped my identity as a mystic biologist. I believe in a spiritual, unifying energy that guides human science, truth, and discovery.
My academic journey is a testament to my insatiable curiosity and passion for knowledge. Attending women-only colleges and universities, I pursued double majors in Philosophy and Biology with a minor in Molecular Biology. My path led me to Cornell Medical School, where I realized that the conventional medical system wasn’t aligned with my vision of healing. I then pursued a Master’s in Biomedical Science (Infectious Disease), excelling in academics but finding laboratory work unfulfilling. The call of nature, human interaction, and vibrant life were too strong to ignore.
Dancing has been a lifelong passion, from ballet to dreaming of performing in “comparsa” for Carnival as a young girl. My body thrives on movement. In 1995, I transitioned from science to fitness, purchasing my favorite women’s fitness center. This was a pivotal moment, as I found a way to bridge science, movement, and wellness through women’s fitness.
In 1997, I discovered Yoga and Pilates, which revolutionized my understanding of movement and healing. By April 2000, I had committed fully to this path, relocating to Philadelphia to learn from Janine Galatti at Alternative Health and Fitness. Here, I was introduced to the world of alternative modalities, including Ayurveda and Yoga. This was where I truly found my groove. I enhanced my teaching skills with a Master’s in Education from Chestnut Hill College and brought my fresh perspective back to Maryland.
Over the next 20 years, I traveled extensively, studying and exploring the depths of Yoga and Ayurveda. My first trip to India in 2005 with Shiva Rea solidified my love for these profound practices. I have since made annual pilgrimages to India, particularly the Himalayas and Rishikesh, to connect with the authentic roots of Yoga and Ayurveda.
My formal education in Ayurveda began at the Kripalu School of Ayurveda in 2005-06, learning from luminaries like Vasant Lad, Robert Svoboda, David Frawley, and Jay Apte. My passion for Ayurveda blossomed, leading me to the Ayurvedic Institute with Vasant Lad, where I eventually served as the Director of Ayurveda Yoga.
In 2017, the allure of the ocean, waves, and surf life in Costa Rica called to me. I embraced radical change, relocating to this vibrant country where every cell in my body felt at home. While my heart belongs to India, my body thrives in Costa Rica.
Today, at 53, I am on a mission to embrace and share the essence of healthful living. A lifelong commitment to learning, teaching, moving, and fusing ancient Vedic practices with modern life fuels my energy and well-being. The toolset I have developed for health success and well-being is one I openly share, guiding you to uncover your unique formula for a fulfilling, joyful, balanced life.
In June 2022, I took a significant step by purchasing land in Playa Barrigona, Esterones, Costa Rica. This marked the beginning of CASA VEDA, a bilingual healing sanctuary offering Ayurvedic Medicine therapies, Yoga, and Fitness within an inclusive, community-based setting. Construction began on July 2, 2024, embodying my vision to root, settle, and grow in this beautiful part of the world.
Guided by Wisdom, Passion, and Education
CERTIFICATIONS
ELEVATE YOUR WELL-BEING
U-NATURAL Certified Instructor: Continuing to explore healing movement for the aging body, Maria explores innovative methods to continue to uplevel her offerings to students. 2024
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Training Course: A lover of mindfulness and meditation, Maria has trained in several meditation practices to support mental well-being. 2021
Duke Health and Wellbeing Certified Coach: Maria’s certification as a Duke Health and Wellbeing Coach showcases her commitment to guiding individuals towards sustainable positive change in their lives, utilizing evidence-based coaching strategies. Since 2021
Certified Yoga Therapist (CIAYT), International Association of Yoga Therapists: Recognized for her in-depth knowledge of yoga therapy, Maria’s certification signifies her expertise in tailoring yoga practices to individual needs, ensuring optimal health and balance. 2011
Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner (CAP) and Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist (CAYT), National Ayurvedic Medical Association: As a certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and Yoga Therapist, Maria combines the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with her yoga expertise, creating a harmonious approach to holistic wellness. 2006
Ayurvedic Practitioner Certification, Kripalu School of Ayurveda and The Ayurvedic Institute: Maria’s Ayurvedic Practitioner Certification from Kripalu reflects her deep understanding of Ayurvedic principles and practices, allowing her to offer personalized wellness guidance rooted in this ancient science.
Advanced Aromatherapy & Western Clinical Herbal Training, Phytotherapy with Sonia Masocco: Maria’s expertise in aromatherapy adds another dimension to her holistic approach, utilizing the therapeutic properties of aromatics for enhanced well-being
ERYT500 (Experienced Yoga Teacher), Yoga Alliance: With her ERYT500 certification, Maria’s proficiency in teaching and guiding yoga practice is recognized by the Yoga Alliance, underscoring her commitment to imparting yoga’s transformative benefits. 2004
Prana Vinyasa Flow 500 HR Certification (Shiva Rea): Maria’s certification in Prana Vinyasa Flow signifies her mastery of this dynamic yoga practice, enabling her to offer students a unique and invigorating yoga experience. 2002
Power Pilates Mat + Level 1-4 Equipment Certification: Maria’s certification in Power Pilates showcases her expertise in this strength-building practice, further enriching her approach to healing movement. 2003
Alternative Health + Fitness Certification (Janine Galati): Maria started her training in Pilates and Yoga through this comprehensive certification, enhancing her ability to guide individuals toward holistic vitality.
Ashtanga Yoga, Instructors Training (David Swensen): Maria’s certification in Ashtanga Yoga showcases her proficiency in this traditional practice, providing her with diverse tools to offer students a holistic yoga experience.
Certified Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer through ACE and the American Fitness Association of America. Maria embarked on her love of health, wellness, and movement training to become a fitness professional and begin the journey of wellness.
UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL
EMBRACE YOUR JOURNEY TO WELLNESS
