Our Instructors
Rose Holbrook
Rose's yogic journey began in 2010 by attending basic flow classes at her local gym. The teachers there sparked her passion for cultivating mindfulness through movement, and using yoga to embody strength, courage, and grace. Since those early days, she has made it her mission to learn just why yoga was so healing for her and for so many others, and share that wisdom far and wide!
She is passionate about making yoga accessible to all ability levels and demographics, and helping folks take their yogic lifestyle off-the-mat through her work with Vedic Astrology and yoga therapy. Rose's yoga classes bring high vibes, rocking playlists, laughs, and plenty of options offered to accommodate all ability levels. Come to feel empowered, leave feeling relaxed and centered. Her astrology readings offer a container for safe emotional exploration that lead to breakthroughs and personal growth for the clients she works with.
When she’s not immersing herself in the work of helping others heal from trauma and cultivate resilience in their lives, relationships, or businesses, she can probably be found snuggling with her partner and their two children, or playing in the woods somewhere in the Appalachian mountains of western North Carolina--and you're invited to come play in these woods, too!
Melinda Welborn
Meet our resident forest therapy guide! Melinda is an avid lover of all things outdoors, from biking and hiking to stand up paddle boarding. She stumbled upon the ancient Japanese technique of Shinrin Yoku, or forest bathing, as a “total fluke” (as she describes it) in 2022. Some friends invited her to try it, and never one to turn down a chance to be outdoors, she dove right in. Once immersed in the practice, there was no turning back - she realized just how therapeutic slowing down among the trees can be, and is now passionate to facilitate that experience for others.
Melinda found that approaching the forest from a Shinrin Yoku perspective (rather than hiking-get-to-the-destination mentality) slows her whole world down and leaves her feeling relaxed—a stark change in pace from her busy corporate job! Hiking, while great exercise, now feels like just speeding by all the magnificent wonders of the forest. The trees do the healing, and Melinda is excited to guide you into the relaxation and rejuvenation she has experienced through Forest Therapy.
Nathan Skipper
As a dedicated yoga practitioner for over twelve years, I’m thrilled to embark on my journey as a yoga instructor. My passion lies in guiding others towards physical and mental well-being through the practice of yoga. I am eager to help you explore your mind, body, and soul, and discover this transformative power.
My mission is to support as many people as possible in achieving their physical and spiritual goals through the incredible journey of yoga. I am devoted to bringing health, vitality, and peace to my students by inspiring them through the joys of yoga asanas and embracing the yogic lifestyle. My passion for yoga fuels my desire to create a welcoming, peaceful, and interactive environment for all my students.
Originally from Florida, I moved to Weaverville just over a year ago. I feel extremely connected to this community and look forward to connecting with more like-minded people in this incredible environment. When not practicing yoga, I’m spending most of my time chasing three young kids named August, Ford, and Noa.
Please join me on this incredible journey as I amerce myself in the rewarding path of becoming a yoga instructor.
Emma Gasinski
Emma Gasinski is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, a lover of movement, a tree hugger, and a plant based enthusiast. She fell in love with yoga at the age of 16 and the fascination with the human body, mind, and spirit led her on her journey to becoming both a Yoga teacher and a Physical Therapist. Emma believes in the power of mindful movement, silent meditation, taking time in the trees to connect with something greater than ourselves, and nourishing our souls with organic, local produce. These powerful actions have helped change Emma's life and she is beyond ecstatic to be able to offer this practice to others with the Yoga Barn!
Emma moved to Asheville in November, 2022 and has explored the mountains every week since. The beauty of the changing seasons in the mountains has been both inspirational and wondrous to experience and she looks forward to adventuring more with you. When Emma is not teaching classes, you can find her in her local PT clinic - Breakthrough Performance PT - on her yoga mat, practicing crossfit, running, gardening, or cooking up some fine vegan cuisine.
Emma has taught many class variations incorporating knowledge and experience from her own practice and knowledge of human anatomy to create the perfect class for you and your body. She can create variations of poses that work in your body so that you can experience the greatest benefit from your physical practice and feel comfortable and ready to explore a seated meditation practice. Emma looks forward to a truly beautiful experience with you!