How did yoga become a part of your life? What led you to a devoted yoga practice?
I had always been curious about yoga since high school, but never really committed until I had children. I was feeling run down and I knew I needed to take care of myself so that I could be present for my family and others. So, I started taking yoga classes and gradually began to feel better physically, mentally and spiritually. Then it clicked. I wanted to be a yoga instructor and share the wonderful benefits of yoga. So, here I am. I have been teaching now for over 10 years and still enjoy what I do!
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about yoga?
For me, the biggest misconception is that yoga is not for everyone’s body. My mission is to make everyone feel comfortable in their own skin and that yoga is for everyone. We are all unique and different and therefore our body structure is different. So, what one person looks like in a pose may not necessarily look the same for another person. I focus on being safe in the pose and taking care of your body. I want people to understand that their is no perfect pose in yoga, just the pose that works for you today. I give many modifications for each pose and I encourage people to listen to their body. I am simply a guide. I also encourage to challenge ourselves, but at the same time it is important to know our boundaries and back off when needed. I feel that learning to accept where we are in the moment, embracing it, and enjoying it helps us to move forward and that is how we grow deeper into our practice.
Name 3 non-negotiables in your life
Faith, Love, and Hope
What is the pose that challenges you the most and why?
Camel pose. Back bends are not my favorite and for some reason camel is my least favorite which tells me that this is the pose that I need to do more.
One mantra to share with students
Loka samasta sukihino bhavantu: "May all living creatures live happy and free."
