Meet the wonderful Elva, whom shining smile and dedicated attitude inspires me every time she walks in the studio.
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When and where did you first start practising yoga?
I first tried yoga many years ago in NSW but wasn’t really committed due to my husband’s work transfers with Defence, family and my work commitments. I was introduced to Ashtanga Yoga in October 2015 while on holiday on Lord Howe Island and was totally committed to finding someone in Townsville who taught Ashtanga.
Why were you interested in the first place?
I have always wanted to practice yoga as a way to keep flexible and improve my posture, especially after many years of sitting at an office desk.
What is it that got you hooked?
I found Allison at Live and Breathe yoga and have been practicing yoga since November 2015 and just love the results I am experiencing in such a short time frame.
What do you love about Live and Breathe yoga?
I love the atmosphere as soon as I walk into the studio and any stress seems to immediately drain away. The aroma of essential oils, candles and the calm, fresh feeling the studio gives me, assists my concentration and helps to block out any negative thoughts and the noise of city traffic.
So far I have only attended classes taken by Allison and Jenny and they are so encouraging and make the classes friendly, fun and relaxing. I am looking forward to attending other classes as I progress.
What benefits/changes have you felt since practising yoga?
I feel that I am on the way to achieving my goal of improving my posture, flexibility, strength and balance. With every visit now, I surprise myself with something more I can do. I love how the breathing techniques help me with poses and with stress management.
How do you stay motivated to keep up your yoga practice?
I attend a Pilates class and two gym workouts weekly which keep me focused on keeping fit. After my gym workouts I finish with half an hour or more of yoga. I look forward to my Friday morning yoga class and plan to attend more classes. I am more attuned and committed to my yoga poses in class than when I am doing them alone.
What’s your favourite thing about Ashtanga Yoga?
There are many things that Ashtanga has taught me but my most favourite thing would have to be the sense of calmness after each class.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of trying yoga?
Thinking about trying yoga is the beginning, but take the next step and join an Ashtanga class. Allison and her team at Live and Breathe Yoga Studio will make you wish you had done it sooner.
