About Us

Michelle Ingkavet Cavanagh

Yoga is a journey of transformation—a continuous evolution of mind, body, and spirit. My passion lies in guiding others to discover their untapped potential, helping them progress step by step toward greater physical and mental balance, strength, and self-awareness.

My yoga journey began in 1996 in New York City, where I studied with world-renowned teachers across the coasts. Over the years, I have cultivated a teaching approach that integrates humor, compassion, and wisdom from my diverse professional and personal experiences. My path has been shaped by a varied background in Performing Arts, Dance, Fitness, Martial Arts, and Portrait Photography. A 1994 graduate of New York University with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Media & Communications and a Minor in Dance Performance, I began my wellness career in 1997 as an ACE-Certified Personal Fitness Trainer. In 1998, my acting career relocated me to Los Angeles, where I concurrently earned Black Belts in HwaRangDo and Shotokan Karate, and began teaching children’s martial arts. After a decade in California as a professional actor, martial artist, and portrait photographer, I returned to New York to embrace motherhood and a more nurturing teaching path. Inspired by the transformative power of yoga, I earned my 200-hour Yoga Alliance certification in 2010, founded Here and Now Yoga, and began offering private sessions and wellness retreats. My teaching expanded to Prenatal Yoga in 2011 and later to Restorative Yoga in 2018. In 2019, I began working with special needs communities, enriching my commitment to inclusivity. In pursuit of holistic wellness, I earned a Master of Science in Nutrition with a concentration in Environmental Nutrition from the University of Memphis in 2023, graduating with a 4.0 GPA. This academic achievement complements my mission to support my clients in achieving balance and well-being on all levels. In 2023, I partnered with fellow yoga instructor and dance professional, Dina Denis-Paolucci, to expand Here and Now Yoga into Here and Now Yoga, Wellness & Arts Collective, creating a vibrant community space in Floral Park, NY. Alongside my yoga practice, I continue to run Michelle Ingkavet Photography, my boutique portrait photography business, and occasionally pursue acting opportunities.

Hosting yoga retreats has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. “Serenity & Adventure” marks my ninth retreat since 2021 and my eighth in collaboration with Sommer Chetty. These retreats are a testament to the transformative power of yoga, mindfulness, and connection. I am honored to share my experiences, knowledge, and passion, creating spaces where students can flourish and find their unique path to wellness.

Sommer Chetty

Sommer brings a unique combination of skills in both physical wellness and emotional empowerment, creating a safe, supportive space for clients to explore their challenges, unlock their potential, and achieve lasting change.

Sommer’s journey in wellness began in 2001 when she became a licensed massage therapist, dedicating nearly two decades to helping individuals improve their physical health. Over the years, she expanded her expertise to include assisted stretching, enabling clients to enhance flexibility, range of motion, and reduce pain. In 2020, Sommer took courses to become certified in life and weight loss coaching and later went on to open her business, Coach Me Sommer, to empower individuals in overcoming fear, boosting self-confidence, and achieving personal and professional growth. Known for her empathetic listening and transformative coaching techniques, Sommer specializes in helping clients shift their mindset, navigate life transitions, and develop actionable strategies for success.

She also leads wellness retreats, providing immersive experiences that support clients in deepening their personal growth and reconnecting with their true selves. Sommer’s strong commitment to fostering lasting change continues to drive her as she helps clients create healthier, more fulfilling lives, offering the tools and support necessary to make meaningful progress and achieve their goals.