Melissa Scanlon

Hello everyone! Melissa here. zen momma was birthed into existence back in 2013 when my daughter Isabelle was born. A mutual friend introduced me to Zen master Michiko J. Rolek and my journey back to myself began. During my first meeting with Michiko I was sharing my struggles around bedtime with my then 8-month-old daughter. I was exhausted and overwhelmed. Michiko asked me one simple question, “how are you feeling around bedtime?” This question served as an “aha” moment, an insight, a MOMent of clarity. I had to practice loving myself first. I didn’t know it quite yet, but the seeds for zen momma had been planted. Over the course of more than a decade I have continued to coach with Michiko. What I have learned and continue to learn (learning never ends) from her has profoundly changed my life. Loving myself gives me more space to love everything else. Being a zen momma is loving the me in momME. This is my daily practice. This is the work of a lifetime. With Michiko’s blessing, I am honored to share the teachings and Zen techniques I have learned from her, with you. Welcome to the zen momma collective. Thank you for being here.

Melissa Scanlon is the founder of zen momma and is deeply passionate about helping women and children live authentic, wholehearted, and joyful lives. A registered yoga instructor, certified coach, mindfulness educator, and energy practitioner, Melissa brings over 15 years of experience—and an abundance of wisdom, compassion, and joy—to every class she leads.

For more than a decade, Melissa has been a devoted Zen student under the guidance of Michiko J. Rolek, a practice that continues to guide her home to herself. “Loving the me in momME” is her daily practice—one that has transformed her life and continues to inspire the work she shares with others.

Melissa’s most treasured role is being “zen momma” to her two children, Isabelle and Gabe, who remind her each day of the magic found in presence, playfulness, and love.

Melissa is a lifelong student and passionate about growing her knowledge to support students of all abilities.

Highlights & Specialties

  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology Northeastern University

  • Certified Coach

  • Certified prenatal, children’s & restorative yoga teacher

  • Energy Practitioner

  • Certified Autism Specialist

  • Continuing ED Child Development UCLA