How did yoga become a part of your life? What let you to a devoted yoga practice?
I started yoga over 3 years ago, when as a wife and mama of two, and working full time outside of the home at a very stressful job I sort of felt like I had lost myself somewhere along the way. I wanted to do something for myself, so I asked my husband if I could sign up for the 4 week Beginner's Series at Day Yoga as my Mother's Day present. I fell in love! It took a while to develop a devoted yoga practice after that and it still ebbs and flows to this day, but I realized that the more I was on my mat, the more I felt my life grounded and less stressful. I definitely notice a difference when I have stayed away from my mat for a while.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about yoga?
I think that one of the biggest misconceptions that people have about yoga is that it is only for the flexible or the physically fit. One thing that I have learned over the years is that yoga is so much more than a physical practice. It can be about being mindful, about breathing, about love and peace. Yes there is a physical aspect to the practice as well, but it can be accessible for everyone, you just have to figure out what works for you because everyone is different.
What are 3 non-negotiables in your life?
I think my 3 non-negotialbles are time with family, they are the most important people in my life and I would have nothing without them. Time for myself, I have learned how important self care is, reading a good book, taking a relaxing bath, and getting together with girlfriends. All of these things give me life, and you can't pour energy out into others from an empty cup. And along that same line is also yoga, like I said before, it is what keeps me grounded and less stressed in life. Yoga is my happy place!
What is the pose that challenges you the most and why?
Anything that opens the throat up...camel, fish pose, etc. I get really anxious in those poses, my breath catches in my throat and I feel like I can't breathe. I have to sit with these poses longer, breathe deep, surrender to the pose, and remind myself that I am safe.
One mantra to share with students.
It's when we settle into and surrender to the hard spaces in life and in our practice, that the most growth happens.