— Donna Eshelman —
M.A., G.C.F.P.

is a Movement Specialist and teacher with a thriving practice in Los Angeles, California. Recognized nationally as a skilled movement educator, her academic background integrates a graduate degree in advanced dance from UCLA and post-graduate studies in kinesiology, movement analysis, motor-learning, and neuroscience. Donna’s professional life blends this technical and experiential knowledge with certifications in The Feldenkrais Method® from Florence, Italy, The Child’s Space Method of Infant Development from Chicago, and Bones for Life® with Ruthy Alon.

Named the “best pilates teacher in L.A.”, by Los Angeles Magazine, her experience in physical therapy, yoga, international dance traditions, and nutrition enhance her movement training. Donna has been invited to teach master classes on skilled movement, fitness, rehabilitation and neuromuscular education in California, New Mexico, Chicago, and abroad. As Director of Fitness and Rehabilitation at the Center for Physical Health, a Los Angeles physical therapy clinic, she developed individualized programs for patients drawing from an array of movement techniques. Well known for her integrated approach to movement, the foundation of Donna’s work is client education and physical improvement.

For over a decade, Donna worked in Los Angeles' vibrant theatre scene as a choreographer, movement coach and performer.  The shows she worked on usually earned the distinguished recognition "Ovation Recommended," indicating that voters for the prestigious Ovation Awards were scoring these productions with high marks.  In 2019 she was Artistic Director and Choreographer of "States of Mind," a collaboration with Venezuelan Classical Pianist Pedro Toro who served as Music Director of the project. After its opening, "States of Mind" sold out all of the remaining performances. 

In 2010, Donna founded Stellar Caterpillar®, an original, infant-focused practice that teaches skilled movement for first year babies. With scientific insight to the benefits of early neuromuscular education and natural movement milestones, Stellar Caterpillar® promotes movement techniques that are a channel for physical, emotional and cognitive growth in children. Through her innovative private practices, speaking engagements, and enlightening websites, Donna is a forerunner in the dynamic world of movement as it applies to physical health and strength, grace, creativity, positive self-image, and our connection to the world around us.

 Listen to a live interview with Donna by clicking HERE.