My Body, My Practice

When I began my yoga practice, I was over 70lbs heavier than I am right now. The only pose (asana) that I felt I could really do during my first class was plow pose. Somehow, I was still able to lift my legs over my head. It was during this pose that I began to realize my own power and limitless potential. The instructor Tim briefly spoke about the throat chakra, and how this position opened it up and regulated our metabolism. A light bulb went off in my head and I felt that I was in charge of what I put into my body and what I get out of it. No weight loss book or fad diet would help me get to where I want to be. The voice inside my head matters, the words I put on paper matters and my actions matter.

That was in 2007. I committed to my wellness since then and began incorporating physical activity into my everyday life. I also transitioned my diet – first away from fried foods and red meat, and finally to a plant-based lifestyle. For the past 10 years, I’ve maintained the weight loss of over 70lbs.

It is now 2019 and I have committed to my yoga practice for the past 8 years and have been an instructor for the past 5. Yes, it took me a few years before I actually believed that yoga was for me. I grew up thinking that yoga was for rich, white women. It took even longer for me to find a yoga community that looked like me. Yoga definitely is for every body regardless of size, ethnicity, socio-economic status or any other identifier.

I have cried when my body didn’t move in a way I thought it should and when I finally had a breakthrough after 10 wheel poses during teacher training. There is no perfect way to practice. Each of our bodies will look different in our physical practice.

In each of my classes, I invite students to move in a way that feels good to them and gives them joy. Maybe that’s sitting in a comfortable seat the entire class or laying down in savasana. Whatever you choose, take up space, make noise, you have a right to be seen and heard.

Join The My Body My Practice Call to Action

I invite each of you to join me for My Body, My Practice. This is a reminder to love ourselves, just as we are – and to honor the spaces where we can grow. My Body My Practice is also a celebration of each of our bodies and the ability to tap into our own power.

This is my first yoga video y’all and features my own practice at Dancing Grounds. This practice is beginner friendly and can be modified to your own body + level.

I provide voice over instruction throughout. There are also some *bonus* videos with deeper instruction through some of the asanas.

Through December 31, 2019, proceeds from this video will go towards making The Ohm Well a home. The funds will help to renovate our childcare suite. The video will be officially released on Friday, November 29th. Those that pre-order will be sent the link on Thanksgiving, November 28th, with a *bonus* meditation video as well. Click here to pre-order your download and please share!

Feel free to donate here as well [paypal-donation]