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1. When and where did you first start practising yoga?
I started a little over 12 months ago through the workplace yoga program at the council and I am only just beginning to see that I am far from done.
2. Why were you interested in the first place?
The reason I went to yoga was to help manage my physical ailment. I have sciatica, bit of a disc tear and a bit of arthritis in my lower back. I blame being a computer nerd for a job and sitting on my butt all day for years as the culprit. Over the last few years I have tried all of the anti-inflams, doctor visits, chiro’s, physio’s, xray’s, ultra sounds and MRI’s that one should logically attend before admitting a certain defeat. I was also going to masseuses, acupuncture and an osteopath. It was a lot to go through without lasting results and while those treatments definitely have their benefits, they weren’t moving me forward. At this point I had pretty much given up on living without pain on a day to day basis. At work I had seen the yoga adverts and decided…why not! Surely being flexible and stronger core can only help.
3. What is it that got you hooked?
After sorting out all the kinks and bumps in all these new muscles and tendons I found I had, it was a complete education in to what exactly what yoga is, five…very….slow…..counts. Thanks Allison.
It was the freshness of being in my skin, clarity of mind and a little endorphin high after a class of yoga will always make me smile. And you can’t beat the fun and friendly classes.
4. What do you love about Live and Breathe yoga?
It has to be the ever friendly warm welcome, genuine conversation and the level of professional yoga experience Allison brings to the class.
5. What benefits have you felt since practising yoga?
I have definitely seen the benefits of yoga in all aspects of my life over the last 12 months. Without finding yoga and sticking with it, I shudder to think where I would be. I have increased mobility, flexibility and an increased total body strength. But most importantly, I have a confidence that through yoga I can naturally heal my physical pains and strengthen my mind by lessening my focus on this negative aspect of my body. And I can now happily sit cross legged without falling over backwards.
6. How often do you practice in a week?
I attend class at least twice a week minimum, except when I have a man-flu. I certainly don’t practise enough at home but as long as it’s once a week then I can accept that. I’ve recently started the Saturday morning Mysore class and I definitely recommend. Harry’s chai is the business!
7. What’s your favourite thing about Ashtanga Yoga?
That I can take it anywhere and do it anywhere, whenever I want.
8. What would you say to someone who is thinking of trying yoga?
This isn’t some namby pamby float around and sniff some incense scene. It’s a technical, sweaty and vigorous workout so stop thinking, jump right in and give it a go. You will sweat smiles by the end of your session. The best part is it’s available for anyone no matter your fitness or physical difficulties.
