About cary
Hello!
Cary is an experienced Special Education Teacher, Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT), and Registered Children's Yoga Teacher (RCYT). She has been teaching children of all abilities and ages for over 20 years. Cary shines in her ability to customize the teaching style to the student, all while bringing her enthusiasm and compassion to everything she does. Cary has received teacher training in mindfulness in education with leaders in the field including Daniel Rechtschaffen, MFT, author of The Way of Mindful Education, and Linda Lantieri, MA, Senior Program Advisor for the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL). Cary's approach is the perfect union of all of these areas of expertise, combining best practices in a unique and powerfully effective way.
riley's yoga walk
Book Endorsements
“Cary is an amazing yoga and mindfulness teacher for kids, and her new book, Riley's Yoga Walk, will be such a great addition to the field of conscious kids’ books. The art, story, and practices are so engaging and fun for kids and families to learn these priceless practices. Kids will love learning breath and movement though these fun and engaging drawings. Highly recommended.”
Daniel Rechtschaffen
Author of Alphabreaths and The Way of Mindful Education
We are never too young or old to benefit from the ancient practices of mindfulness and yoga. We are never too young or old to enjoy a whimsical book or a lovely walk. With Riley’s Yoga Walk, we can do it all! Rileys Yoga Walk serves as a perfect example of “beginners mind,” that is, each moment of this routine neighborhood stroll is filled with new enthusiasm and curiosity. Along the way, Riley joins Cary for delightful moments of mindful yoga movement. In their debut children’s book, sisters, Cary Saltsgaver and Stacey Harris, have teamed up to combine their expertise in mindfulness, yoga, and art to create a beautiful book that will resonate with adults and children of all ages. I highly recommend adding this book to your library. It’s sure to become a classic. Undoubtedly, you will want to share this book with loved ones as well. I can’t wait to see what Riley is up to next!
Rebecca West, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC
Board certified Family Nurse Practitioner
Mindfulness Meditation Teacher
Hatha Yoga instructor
Health and Wellness Coach
Riley’s Yoga Walk is an amazing blend of yoga, art, and mindfulness. Cary is a passionate teacher of all ages, from preschool to adults. The magic of learning she creates for little ones and teachers has inspired thousands. I have been so fortunate to learn from Cary and strongly recommend reading Riley’s Yoga Walk and attending her workshops.
Dr. Brett Geithman, Superintendent
As an educational leader, I am always looking to share resources with teachers and principals that align with our school district’s vision, mission, and goals. Riley's Yoga Walk beautifully supports our commitment to promote social and emotional wellness and nurture our culture of care. I can’t wait to share Riley's Yoga Walk with our community and... my own family. :-)
Katherine Whittaker Stopp
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services
Manhattan Beach Unified School District
“Too often we move through life carrying the stresses of the world on our shoulders and in our hearts. Riley's Yoga Walk teaches us to slow down and appreciate those things we encounter on a simple walk around the neighborhood. We come away feeling lighter, relaxed and happier because of it.”
Chris Rodenhizer
Former Principal & Professional Developer for Elementary Schools
“This book makes me want to take my family out for a walk, stretch like a tree and build a special relationship with nature. Cary Saltsgaver's creativity and caring attitude is infectious and the world needs more of it!”
Chris Quirarte
Cotsen Foundation for the Art of Teaching
“For parents who see the value of introducing mindfulness and mindfulness practices to their children, this book will prove a wonderful resource. Combining kids, dogs, yoga and a whole lotta love, this book is a great way to introduce kids to the positive influences of yoga and other mindfulness practices. I highly recommend.”
Charley Allen
Psychotherapist and Mindfulness Teacher
“If you would like to walk with the real deal, Cary Saltsgaver of Riley's Yoga Walk is just that. She embodies the spirit of life as she breathes inspiration to youngsters as they glide alongside Riley on their yoga journey.”
Tara Thomas
Co-founder, Momentum in Teaching
“This is an incredible book. It’s a testament to the power of precise words and delightful art. This book professes to be a ‘mindful experience’ for humans and dogs of all ages. Mindful is an understatement. I do not do yoga and I do not have a dog, but I found myself following along (as if I had been subliminally directed), stretching my body and feeling, seeing, and hearing. What a wonderful thing it is to share with your child the joy to be found in everyday events. I was on that walk with Riley. I defy you to read this book without doing the yoga poses. Your body will move on its own, you will feel the wind on your skin, you will float on the breeze like a butterfly and you will stretch your branches up to the sky. Children will love it—it’s interactive. Read this book along with your child. These are the everyday moments that create that feeling of abundant love. Thanks for the walk, Riley.”
Shaaron Fedora
International Best-selling Author of Twigs In My Ears and The Loneliest Teddy Bear
“Riley’s Yoga Walk is a story that provides a heartwarming tale of a little girl and Riley, her dog, as they discover how to use mindfulness and yoga practices to uplift themselves. This book is an immaculate teaching tool that is much-needed in every classroom across the globe. Sisters Cary and Stacey have skillfully authored and illustrated this book, which is a great tool for children and parents. A MUST HAVE in every school and home.”
Pashmina P.
International Best-selling Author of The Cappuccino Chronicles Trilogy and What is a Gupsey?
M.Ed International Teaching, Framingham State University, Massachusetts
“Author Cary Saltsgaver is a bright soul and this is evident in her book, Riley’s Yoga Walk. The book takes the reader on a journey that is refreshing while inviting them into themes associated with nature, life and intuition all rolled into one story. I enjoyed reading this book and will definitely gift this to all of the children in my family. This book also taps into the beauty that our pets bring to us, and the importance of unconditional love. I highly recommend this book to families all over the world.”
Judy O’Beirn
International Best-selling Author of Unwavering Strength Series
Founder & President, Hasmark Publishing International
“Riley's Yoga Walk by sisters Cary and Stacey has an adorable and fun way to teach kids about mindfulness through yoga. It is a book you will want to share with the kids in your life. As a grandma and dog lover, I love how this book engages and inspires the reader to move and stretch. I can't wait to share this book with my grandchildren and granddogs.”
Joanette Weisse
Author, Artist, ER Physician, and Grandmother of 5 grandchildren and 2 granddogs
“Such a cute story! What a nice way to present yoga to children by way of a little girl and her cute little dog. I love this! Riley's Yoga Walk is a must-have!”
Dalandra Young
#1 International Best-selling Author of Noonimals: First Day of School
Cary’s positive energy shines through in Riley’s Yoga Walk, instantly putting a smile on your face! Cary’s love of life shines through her appreciation of the little things that create a beautiful world of curiosity and fun. I feel truly blessed to have met Cary and Riley. I am certain Riley’s Yoga Walk will be enjoyed by all!
Anne Janssen
Volunteer/Bereavement Coordinator
Optimal Hospice, Inc., A Bristol Hospice Company