I encourage students to cultivate and express their beautiful, innate wisdom.
As a yoga teacher and student for over three decades, I’m honored to present both the theory and the praxis of yoga, so that we all can put our skills into action. I offer what I have embodied myself, teaching privately as well as to groups of 10-300 at studios, conferences, and festivals.
I mentor teachers who want to refine their artistry and deepen their connection with students. Yoga studios invite me as guest faculty for teacher trainings and residencies, and I offer my own 200-hour training through NOLA Yoga, which is registered with Yoga Alliance.
What people say about my approach to yoga
Cat McCarthy has the playful energy and curiosity of a child and the wisdom of a very experienced adult professional all wrapped into one amazing being. She is a creative, vivacious and positive spirit. Her teaching is deep, organized and connected to each student with compassion and encouragement.
Having known Cat’s practice for over two decades, I’ve watched a quiet transformation. Coming from a super-ambitious way of practicing, in her role as a teacher, Cat’s learned to listen to her body yet remain dedicated to the quality and detail of her actions. Her ambition has transformed into true exuberance, which inspires students and colleagues alike.
The experience she offers is one that moves, stretches, and strengthens your body in a way that makes you feel really good, and that imparts wisdom about life and how to navigate the good and the challenging situations, so that yoga is truly something that enhances our life (I feel that so many people talk about bringing yoga “off the mat,” and it is rare to find a teacher who actually explains how to do that well). Cat always brings who she is in the moment to her teaching. She is never “fake” or just going through the motions. She has a high level of integrity. Cat offers an environment where fun and a sense of play is allowed and encouraged (there is always some laughter); and importantly, a place where the student feels truly supported and cared for.
Before practicing yoga with Cat, I felt powerless against my scoliosis pain. Practicing with her helped me create the mental awareness that I needed in order to connect with my body. From there, her expertise in alignment helped me turn that mental awareness into physical action. Always playful yet sincere, tough yet encouraging, I now stand taller and sit up straighter. Jai, Cat! Jai!
Empathic, organized, purposeful. Sharpening of focus on the disparate elements of each pose, a very deep experience of each pose.
I have been a serious student of yoga for years and have been fortunate to study with several world renowned and gifted teachers. Cat stands out as a compassionate teacher of yoga and a bright light. Her sense of humor and knowledge of yoga create a fun and relaxed environment in which to learn. If you are considering a teacher training program, I highly recommend Cat. Her training has far exceeded my expectations.
