Our Certified Instructors
We bring qualified, experienced instructors who are masters of their arts to Cypress. Our instructors are some of Sarasota’s finest practitioners in their chosen fields, and are committed to supporting their students’ journeys. Our teachers offer quality classes as well as lots of support for you outside of the studio or dojo to help you continue to learn and grow.
Shihan Dr. Brian Nell
Specialties:
Pangai-Noon Karate
Tai Chi & Qigong
Meditation
Certifications:
Master’s of Science in Oriental Medicine
6th Degree Blackbelt
Multiple Tai Chi Form Certified Instructor
Zen Buddhist
Doctor of Oriental Medicine
CPR/First Aid Instructor
Usui Reiki Master
Classes:
Pangai-Noon Karate & Kobudo, Meditation, Chinese Medicine, Tea, Art Classes, Archery
Misha Nell, RH, MS
Specialties:
Bellydance (Orientale, Classical Egyptian, & Global Caravan Tribal Style)
Tarot, Reiki, & Shamanism
Herbalism & Environmental Education
Certifications:
Master’s of Science in Environmental Education
GC Master Teacher & Master Leader in Tribal Bellydance (Level 5 MT & 5 ML)
Usui Reiki Master (practicing since 1996)
Advanced Master Naturalist & Program Instructor
Registered Herbalist (AHG)
Certified Interpretive Guide, Certified Heritage Interpreter (NAI)
Priestess of the Sacred Earth & Crystal Shaman
Philosophy:
Creativity comes in so many forms. We can tap into our wild hearts through dance, art, intuition, or simply gazing at a beautiful moment in nature. As we open our minds to learn, we also open our hearts. I create a safe and supported space for learning, come follow me on the path and I am happy to light the way.
Classes:
Global Caravan Tribal Style Bellydance, Bellydance Drills, Tea & Tarot, Reiki Trainings, Herbalism, Shamanic Training
Shihan James Smith
Specialties:
Juijutsu
European Fighting Arts
Certifications:
6th Degree Black Belt Jujutsu
Assistant Instructor Laustök Glima
Certified Personal Trainer
Massage Therapist
Vitki of the Northgate Lodge/Wild Wulf Runes
Philosophy:
All our training should be devoted toward making you a stronger person, inside & out, for your family & your community. Always working toward growing and reaching the next level, in everything you do.
Classes:
Juijutsu, Runes & Rune Work, Yoga, Fitness, Archery
Stephen Martin-Bennet
Specialties:
Ceremonial Work
Shadow Work
Purpose
Happiness
Astrology
Tarot
Meditation
Certifications:
Reiki Master
Master Meditation Guide
Intuitive Card Reader
Spiritual Life Coach
Philosophy:
After a lifelong love of Metaphysics, the Paranormal, and Mythology, Stephen is embracing the call to spread light, love, and good juju in the world.
Classes:
Full & New Moon Ceremonies
Witches Way with Stephen Jay
Karen Markus
Specialties:
Bellydance (Raqs Sharqi, Cabaret, Classical Egyptian)
Training:
Karen has been dancing for over 20 years. She began her study of Bellydance with Virgnia Mendez https://www.bellydancebyvirginia.com , laying the foundation. She then went on to study with Hannan, https://hananarts.org, Portia Lange https://bellymotions.com/ , Kelly Rodriguez. https://www.bellybykelly.com as well as many other well known dancers in the Miami community. And now most recently with Misha of Shimmyboom in Sarasota.
Philosophy:
There is an Egyptian saying, “Every girl is born a dancer”, or in this case, Everybody is born a dancer. Bellydance, and this dance community, is welcoming to all shapes, sizes and ages, for those that have had no dance training to those that have studied other types of dance. Bellydance is transformative, healing and ultimately ‘do-able’ . Bellydance is a home.
Classes:
Raw It! Bellydance with Karen
Want to join our team?
We are always interested in collaborating with dynamic and experienced instructors who would like to share their art with the world. We love supporting teachers to create exciting classes and to share their knowledge. Contact us to chat about hosting your class or special event at Cypress and sharing the space today!