Tara Lemerise, Yoga Instructor

"Machelle Lee is the best kept secret of the Yin Yoga world. She has a truly masterful way of weaving together the physical discipline of Yoga with mythology and psychology. Her teaching is the kind of effortless that you know only comes from years and years of learning and experience. All aspects of you - body, mind, soul - will be tended in her classes. Her studio, Roots & River, is the kind of yoga community that you absolutely want to join and you will be warmly welcomed. 100% recommended many times over." Learn more about Tara Lemerise Yoga

Gabrielle Robinson, Author,Professor Emerita

“I have practiced Vinyasa and Yin Yoga with Machelle Lee for 20 years, at first in her studio in Indiana and later online when she moved to Maryland. I had to join online because I couldn’t find anyone to replace what she does. Her practices are at once energizing, calming, and inspiring; they strengthen my body and uplift my spirit. I love the physical, mental, and spiritual engagement she encourages in us and how she follows the seasons according to traditional Chinese medicine. Beyond her deep knowledge of Yoga and her 30 years’ experience of teaching, what shines through is her caring and generous mind and heart. All who practice with her benefit from that.

At 82, and in large part thanks to Machelle, I am still able to do most of the more challenging parts of her Vinyasa, but she also offers easier versions of the postures. During Yin she gives variations for the poses, depending on our preference and body type. She also reads to us from a wide variety of sources including the Radiance Sutras, Rumi, and Mary Oliver’s poems steeped in a profound love of nature. Even though I can attend only virtually, I feel the community she creates for all of us.” Learn More about Gabrielle

Lisa Tumbarello, Owner - Potomac River Interiors

“I have never been to a yoga studio that is more welcoming and homey than Roots & River (and I've been to A LOT of studios). The Owner, Machelle, has created an inviting, unpretentious, sacred space and her wealth of knowledge and years of experience shows in her genuine care for her students. Do yourself (and your mind and body) a favor and visit Roots and Rover ASAP! *Pic of me and my Mom at a Mother's Day class.”
Learn more about Lisa and Potomac River Interiors

Judy Buchanan

“I love attending classes at Roots & River Yoga! The studio atmosphere is so warm and welcoming facilitating peace and calm for the mind, body and spirit. Machelle is so incredibly knowledgeable and she understands how all bodies are different. She always offers modifications for positions depending on what is happening with you personally. I highly recommend checking out the variety of classes that are offered.” Learn more about Judy

Jennifer Salaverri 

“I had wanted to do a yoga teacher training for years. Once I met Machelle and Tara, it was immediately clear that I would study under them, so I waited until they offered a  Yoga Teacher Training (YTT).  And I am so glad that I did.  I likely could have learned the physical practice teachings from many others but  the YTT experience and community that Machelle and Tara created was truly amazing.  I really valued diving deep into the philosophy and history of yoga as well as learning how to embody the spirit of yoga on and off of the mat.  We learned, we laughed, we cried and we all grew together. It was beautiful. If you are thinking about doing a YTT with Machelle and Tara, just do it!  I will be forever grateful for the experience.”
Learn More about Jenn