Amanda Quintanilla is the founder of UpDown Academy, a comprehensive yoga teacher training program specializing in mat-based vinyasa, aerial yoga, and SUP yoga instruction. Based in Fort Worth, Texas, Amanda teaches alignment-focused, nervous system-informed classes that prioritize accessibility and presence over perfection.
Amanda's teaching philosophy centers on two core principles: alignment as foundation and nervous system care as practice. She believes every student deserves options for their unique body, and that yoga should feel grounding rather than performative. Her signature cues "lengthen first, rotate second" and "hug midline" reflect her commitment to safe, efficient movement that honors individual bodies.
With over 400 hours of specialized training in vinyasa, aerial yoga, paddleboard yoga, and myofascial release, Amanda brings diverse movement expertise to her teaching. She completed her foundational training in alignment-based vinyasa and has since expanded into aerial arts at SanctuAerie Studio in Fort Worth, where she continues training with master instructors in suspension-based practices.
Amanda's approach integrates mindfulness and somatic awareness with technical precision. She teaches students to meet themselves exactly where they are tight, tired, stressed, or joyful without judgment or force. Her classes emphasize breath-centered movement, present-moment awareness, and the understanding that showing up is enough.
Before dedicating herself fully to yoga and movement education, Amanda navigated burnout and a journey back to trusting her body and mind. This personal experience deeply informs her teaching, particularly her emphasis on nervous system regulation and the importance of practices that restore rather than deplete.
As founder of UpDown Academy, Amanda is developing curriculum that trains teachers across three modalities: grounded mat practice, suspended aerial work, and balanced SUP yoga.