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Romi Cumes is a certified yoga instructor, licensed massage therapist, musician, dancer and performer based in Santa Barbara, California. Her business, Transformative Healing Arts offers professional yoga instruction, healing retreats, therapeutic massage, yoga/movement workshops, Firedancing for special events, and African drum & dance performances. Romi’s story: My love for movement and energy began at the age of four when I discovered the world of gymnastics. Ten years of regular practice helped me develop a physical ritual that conditioned my body and focused my mind. Training, competition and free-form fun taught me how to access many levels of physical and emotional consciousness. Like many movement forms, the structural challenges of gymnastics worked in balance with the creative, uplifting aspects. I greatly appreciate all movement and art forms that challenge us to explore the deep layers within ourselves and move us beyond ordinary comfort zones. Within the dynamic and subtle energy waves inherent in the nature of movement, there are pathways to endless Self-discovery.
While growing up, the influence of yoga was all around me. I began practicing regularly in 1995 and completed my beginning and advanced teacher-training certifications at the White Lotus Foundation in 1998 and 2007. I have studied with a broad range of reputable Yoga teachers nationally and internationally since 1996. I annually lead yoga retreats to Willka T’ika Retreat Center in the Sacred Valley of Peru. My approach to Yoga and healing arts is eclectic like my experience of life. I have been blessed with many teachers who have helped shape my perspective through offerings of wisdom, guidance and Love. I offer my sincere gratitude to the Earth/Gaia, as she has been my greatest teacher. I am also very grateful for the many teachers who have influenced my life, as well as for all the teachers yet to come. My intention as a Yoga teacher is to evoke deeply transformative experiences in the body and Spirit. Having a regular awareness-building practice over the years has helped me stay connected to my most intrinsic, love-filled nature. I support people to live more freely in their bodies and move beyond the limitations of the mind. When we have a safe place to explore the Body-Mind-Spirit connection within our Self, Yoga becomes medicine. It can open our hearts, heals old wounds, illuminate the body and awaken true potential. Healing begins when we are committed to being present and compassionate with ourselves. The beautiful thing about Yoga to me is the ever-unfolding nature of the practice. Almost every time I am on the mat, I am more aware and become more present. I grow, breathe and learn to laugh at myself.
I returned to my hometown of Santa Barbara, California in 2000 to develop my business, Transformative Healing Arts. Since 2002, I have performed with various dance and artists groups, while continuing to study healing arts (massage, bodywork, energy healing) dance, yoga and music. I have been playing music my whole life and feel deeply connected with Universal Energy when playing guitar, piano, percussion, or singing/chanting. My intention with my music is to open up channels of expression, while singing and writing about the myriad mysteries of this world. I am currently recording my first album of folksy singer/songwriter music (see resume for more information). After studying holistic health in Santa Cruz, I continued my education in Santa Barbara and became a Certified Massage Therapist in 2001. Like my Yoga, I enjoy having an eclectic massage practice. I work with modalities such as: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Acupressure, Massage for Rehabilitation, Restorative and Energy/Intuitive work. I currently have my private Yoga and Massage practice in downtown Santa Barbara, CA.Mystical shamanic studies and travels throughout the Americas and Africa have led me to explore the sacred connections between culture, movement, music, healing, environmentalism and spirituality. My deep love for sustainability, ethno-botany and ecology blossomed during my time as an undergraduate student in Environmental Studies at UCSC. I am continually intoxicated by the sacred power of Nature. I strongly believe there is a direct relationship between Nature and one’s individual healing process. How we treat the Earth directly impacts the individual and global psyche. Within the last ten years, the world has seen dramatic changes in our environment. It is our duty at this juncture to do what we can to promote a healthier, more sustainable way of life. If you are not connected to an organization in your community and would like to learn more about various environmental resources, please see the Links and Home page on this website.
She (Gaia, Earth) helps us tap into our truest nature and develop knowledge of our surroundings. Nature infuses us with Divine energy, and supports our individual healing processes with unconditional compassion. My interest in Shamanism and ethnic spiritual practices began in Peru in the mid 90’s. I developed a love for the ancient rituals of Curanderos (medicine healers) and other native healers. Since 1999, wilderness and spiritual studies have led me to travel extensively through Nepal, India, South America and South Africa. I have had the good fortune of observing the diverse healing practices of indigenous people in these countries. My love for South America guides me back to Peru annually, where I offer Yoga and healing retreats. Groups are based out of the beautiful Willka T’ika Guest Lodge, which was created by my mother Carol Cumes. Willka T’ika is a healing haven, eco-lodge and retreat center, nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley of Peru. Willka T’ika (Meaning: Sacred Flower in Quechua) is a magical place where people can merge cultural travel with an authentic healing experience. For more information, please see the Yoga Travel link or visit www.willkatika.com. Transformative Healing Arts also offers retreats in the United States and countries outside of Peru. Visit the Yoga Travel page for more information about upcoming retreats. I believe it is humanity’s duty to preserve what the West calls “alternative” and “indigenous” medicine systems. This is especially important as new ‘dis-eases’ erupt and modern health technology continues to dominate. I believe that we must integrate our fast paced world with nature-based, environmentally sustainable living systems. Fusing that way of life with authentic spiritual and cultural healing modalities can create a healthier, more complete way of life. Transformative Healing Arts works with community organizations, leaders, health practitioners, performing artists and activists to provide services and create events that promote healing, social justice, and environmental awareness. Events include: fundraisers, non-profit events, corporate functions, festivals, private parties and performances. Our mission is to heal and unify humanity through Holistic Health, Environmental Awareness, Art, Music, and Dance. There are many ways to give back and it is often difficult to know which way to turn in times of impending environmental crisis, poverty, cultural disintegration and global injustices. If you seek to make a difference through social or environmental change, connect with an organization that speaks to your heart and soul. I am currently working with Willka T’ika and the Willka T’ika Children’s Fund to support the quality of life for Quechua natives in the Peruvian Andes. The Fund is currently supporting three schools in the high mountains above the Sacred Valley. The Fund builds libraries, computer labs and classrooms. It provides quality education, hot meals, and a creative, safe space for young Quechua children. WTCF began as a way to support the authentic culture and ancient traditions of Quechua people in need of quality education. The Fund encourages isolated Quechua communities to maintain the ancient traditions that have preserved their culture for hundreds of years. Future goals include hosting community leadership groups, sustainable living forums, Permaculture design courses and environmental seminars at the Willka T’ika Garden Guest Lodge. For more information and to make a donation, please visit: www.chakragardens.com or email info@chakragardens.com |
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