Yoga is the practice of uniting the mind, body, and soul. For thousands of years, yogis have used this practice to work towards experiencing higher states of being, oneness, and the true 'Self': this is known as 'Samadhi'.
I have found yoga to be a powerful tool for connecting to inner peace, the needs of our body, and physical expression. As well as this, yoga can be used to regulate our nervous system, release old trauma held in the body, and for spiritual connection.
Yoga as a discipline grounds you in the truth of your body. Safety, stability, support - both emotionally and physically - are the foundation of the practice. These form the strong roots of the tree. Sometimes the practice can be very nurturing and gentle, sometimes it is fierce and strength-based, and all types of practice can be used to nurture our roots depending on what we need.
Initially, I hated yoga! When I pracited I felt impatient, frustrated, and limited because I wasn't naturally flexible. After a couple of years of learning to slow down in life, I was drawn back to yoga practice with a newfound appreciation. I slowly started to feel more acceptance of my body and its limits, which then grew into appreciation and wonder.
Yoga has helped me build strength, flexibility, and balance—both physically and mentally—in ways I never expected. It continues to bring me peace, confidence, and connection with my body and is ingrained in my daily life whether I unroll my mat or not. Yoga is with me in my awareness of my breath, tension in my body, and the way that I move mentally and physically,
For me, yoga isn't about flexibility or perfect alignment, it's about connection and expansion within ourselves, which is greatly supported by yogic philosophy. This is the essence of what I aim to bring to my yoga classes, and it is a joy to share this practice with you.