How did yoga become part of your life? What led you to a devoted yoga practice?
I found yoga when I was a new mom with two young kids at home. In a quiet room on a mat, I found a way to reconnect with myself. I loved how the movements linked with the breath. It definitely helped me survive the early years of motherhood. We moved to the Dayton area from Utah about 4 years ago, and I found Day Yoga Studio, and saw my practice really begin to deepen. I started trying all the available styles of yoga, and saw so many positive physical, mental and emotional changes in myself. It’s definitely been the one thing I’ve stuck with the longest in my life.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about yoga?
There are two big misconceptions I always hear about yoga. That you have to have a certain body type to do yoga, and that you have to be flexible. Yoga is accessible for everyone, regardless of size, skin color, gender or ability. If you can breathe, you can do yoga.
Name 3 non-negotiables in your life.
Hiking, reading, yoga
What is the pose that challenges you most? Why do you think it challenges you?
I think the poses that challenge me the most are inversions. I think I’m probably strong enough to do them, but fear of letting go and trusting myself is holding me back. One day :)
If you had to pick one mantra to share with your students, what would it be?
If you practice yoga once a week, you will change your mind. If you practice twice a week, you will change your body. If you practice every day, you will change your life.