When I first started practicing yoga at age 28, I was primarily interested in using it for a physical workout. I was a gymnast for many years, so finding something that encouraged me to move and stretch felt natural for me. I enjoyed being pushed and challenged and I always felt better when I left class, even though I did not fully understand the mental benefits of the practice.
As a young adult, I struggled with anxiety and depression. I used alcohol to help relieve my symptoms which worked for awhile, until alcohol use became a problem for me. I was looking for something to help alleviate my discomfort instead of dealing with the root problem. Yoga was an important part of my life, but I knew that I was not going to find peace until I dealt with my issues.
Today, I see yoga in a completely different light. As both a teacher and a practitioner, I am interested in the physical and emotional healing that the practice has to offer.
I come across hundreds of students each week, and many of them are trying to heal. Everyone has a story: some students are managing painful physical symptoms, some have emotional trauma, and some are using substances like I was to mask their pain.
I understand the struggle. Whatever your story is, my hope is that I can provide a peaceful and supportive space where students can feel safe.
According to the ancient yoga texts, yoga is so much more than the physical asana practice. Yoga as a philosophy can be a way to find purpose and meaning in life. My goal in working with students is to help build the physical and emotional strength that’s necessary as we move through the challenges of life.