Marika Ripke, PhD
Marika is a dancer, yogini, Mother, surfer, Reiki practitioner, writer, and photographer.
She has been dancing her entire life, and practicing yoga for over 25 years.
Marika currently guides dance, yoga, and meditation classes on the Big Island of Hawaii.

For as long as I can remember, I have danced...
...  to rejoice and celebrate.
... for the pleasure and love of moving my body.
... to connect to myself, and others.
...to remember my roots and ancient rhythms.
​... to pray.
...to be free.
~Marika Ripke

Marika has primarily studied African, Latin, and Modern dance. She most recently found her love and passion for Hula, and is so grateful to be dancing with a Hula Halau.  Marika is a dance choreographer, teacher, and performer. She guides workshops and high-energy movement classes combining dance and yoga with breathwork, set to uplifting music. Her classes encourage: intentional movement; playfulness; self-discovery and awareness; opening and receiving; letting go and transforming. She currently guides Kama Dance Yoga classes~a fusion of choreographed dance and yoga, at Kalanimua retreat center in Pahoa.

Marika has been practicing yoga for 25+ years and teaching for ten. She is certified and experienced in Ashtanga/Hatha/Vinyasa and Restorative yoga, Pranyama (conscious breathing) is a fundamental part of all her classes. She currently guides Vinyasa Flow Yoga classes at Yoga Centered in Hilo.

Marika's other forays in the moving and healing arts include Reiki, Hawaiian Holistic Healing, Qi Gong, and African dance and drumming. Marika is also a devoted mother, avid surfer, freelance writer/editor, published book author, and photographer. She holds a Masters of Arts degree in Child Development, and a PhD in Human Ecology.

Student Testimonials

"Marika’s yoga and dance classes are a journey through the senses. Her instructions are clear and she offers options for beginners as well as more advanced practitioners.  Her use of uplifting music and positive affirmations create a unique experience. I always feel energized and refreshed after one of her classes. Mahalo!" ~E.M

"I've had the great pleasure of participating in many a yoga and dance class taught by Marika. Her exuberance and energy and attention to detail offer much in the way of learning and enjoyment. Her presence and contagious,amazing smile can lift any spirit and move any soul to movement and joyous fellowship. I am much blessed to call her a valued teacher and friend" ~Jonpaul B.