I was working full time, overweight, unfit and needing to find something that I could do in my own home. Having been active and fit all of my life, I was shocked at the state that I was in. I remember downloading an app and struggling to do even the most basic asanas (postures). The beginners yoga that I followed was gentle on my stiff, unfit body, which was good because I really could do very little! But when I rolled out my mat it gave me a peaceful sanctuary that I couldn't get anywhere else. It felt like a moving meditation. It wasn't until a few years ago, with my son all grown up, that I was able to really turn my attention to me. I joined a gym and lost weight, became fitter than I had been in over two decades and found a love and respect for my body that had been missing for many years. I went to my first ever yoga class on the gyms open day and that is when I really fell in love with yoga! I have seen my body change, my health change and I have gained an understanding of myself and what I want in my life. I started to dream that maybe one day I could become a yoga teacher and help others feel the same peace, empowerment, energy and rejuvenation that I get when on my mat. October 2020, I took the plunge and enrolled on a 200HR Hatha and Restorative Teacher Training course with Cardiff Yoga School. Amanda opened my eyes to a world beyond breath and physical movement. Yoga is so much more than just the postures and breathing and I feel like I have only just begun my journey into understanding the incredible effects of living and embodying yoga. This will be a life long learning for me. And the more I learn, the more I can share this incredible life changing experience with others. I have since then qualified in Kids Yoga - I dont know who gets the most joy from these classes the kiddies or me. And following my love of strong althetic yoga I recently qualitifed as a Rocket Yoga instructor. I love a strong vinyasa class that gets my blood pumping, my muscles burning and my heart singing with its powerful flow, but I also appreciate the subtle gentle benefits of breath, the life changing affects of inward focus, the importance of correct alignment in building and protecting a flexible, strong, healthy body and I have learnt to treasure the calming effects of a restorative practice. I remember what it is like to barely be able to move so can understand a beginners perspective, but I am also incredibly proud to now be able to work at a strong intermediate level. Last year I took my training further studying Sound Healing and qualifing with the Complimentary Medical Association. With Alchemy Crystal Bowls and Gongs I now offer the incredible healing vibrational energy of sound healing to my classes and events. Sharing my love of yoga and sound healing with the physical and mental health benefits with my community is the best job in the world!
