January yogi of the month : Angela

Live and Breathe Yoga Townsville Yogi of the month Angela

It’s been a real joy to have Angela in my classes for nearly 5 years. Now pregnant with her second baby, it’s been particularly lovely to be able to support Angie in both pregnancies and be part of her wonderful and challenging experience of becoming a Mum. A true inspiration in how to keep up with your practice no matter what, check out Angie’s yogi of the month interview below.

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When and where did you first start practising yoga?

I had done a beginners course many years ago, but I started practicing properly with Allison in 2010 at the weekly lunchtime class held at my workplace.

 

Why were you interested in the first place?

A friend invited me to the beginners course & I thought ‘why not?’, but I have always been drawn to the principle of yoga, being to quieten the mind, as that certainly does not come naturally to me.

 

What is it that got you hooked?

The feeling I get when finishing my practice, noticing how I improve with dedicated practice and the benefits my body receives (which becomes apparent when I’ve missed a practice or two!).

 

What do you love about Live and Breathe yoga?

First & foremost, the instructors – they are ‘real’ & relatable & happy to share their own practice challenges which is encouraging to keep showing up for yourself.  They are genuinely supportive & I enjoy the philosophy they explain throughout the class.  Also, the beautiful feeling when stepping into the studio – it’s immediately calming and my breath & thoughts slow down.

 

What benefits/changes have you felt since practising yoga?

Most obvious is the improvement in my physical practice, where it has highly benefited me during my pregnancies (managing sciatica & generally keeping healthy, active & flexible) & even during the birth of my first child.  I’m 26wks pregnant now, so I’m confident yoga will play it’s part this time also.  Another benefit, that is a daily practice for me, is my shift in perspective – thinking about things differently, letting thoughts come and go etc.

 

How often do you practice in a week?

Rarely will I miss the weekly class held at my workplace & I do a small practice & particular postures at home to keep on top of pregnancy pulls & pains. On an ideal week, I like to make a class at the studio also.

 

What’s your favourite thing about Ashtanga Yoga?

Besides the way it physically makes me feel, I love that it’s an hour or so that’s just for me (I don’t have many of them these days) & it’s a fresh start every time I step onto my mat – where my last practice doesn’t matter, the type of day I’m having doesn’t matter, my ‘to do’ list etc., none if it matters, I just need to show up for myself.

 

What would you say to someone who is thinking of trying yoga?

Be aware, it’s addictive!

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