Having been a hard core “gym rat”, I had a misconception that yoga was all about relaxing, stretching, and sitting in lotus position…NOT for me. I wanted to work and sweat.
Then my sister-in-law took up yoga and I saw amazing results in her. My gym at the time offered yoga and my curiosity lead me to check it out. I was amazed at how challenged I was and how invigorated I felt after class and kept going back.
My instructor at the time encouraged me to get certified to teach. I had twin toddlers then and wasn’t really looking to add anything more to my plate, but I went to a teacher training anyway just to check it out. I learned I had a gift for teaching and started-out offering classes from my garage. Then I got an offer at a local studio.
I have now been teaching for over 6 years, gotten my 200 hr certification with Yoga Alliance, trained with wonderful teachers, and taught in several studios.
Suze’s studio is where I choose to practice because it delivers an experience every time. I am still challenged in every class. I am especially drawn to the heat, the music, the colors, and the freedom to use my own vocal vibrations to help maintain optimal health.
Admittedly it was the physical benefits of yoga that initially appealed to me — the muscle tone, the flexibility, the fat-burning capabilities. However, now 7 years into it, my practice has turned into something deeper.
While I am still benefiting from the physical aspects (I do get that workin- sweat every time!) yoga is also very therapeutic for me. I can take the stresses of home, work, and family, and leave them behind on the mat. While releasing my hips, I’m also letting go of pent-up emotions.
While doing so, I am also thankful for the health and life I’ve been given and use my practice as a form of worship to show gratitude to the One who gave it. I, like many of you, spend so much time taking care of others, but I do this for me…I refill my cup and as a result have more to give to those I love.
Yoga means “union.” In my practice, I am truly able to unite my mind, body, and spirit. I have left the competitive, frenzied gym life and chosen to come into the nurturing environment of a loving yoga studio.
I am thrilled to be a part of this studio and to share my passion for yoga and compassion for people.