Mind, body, spirit — yoga is a holistic experience for many. But did one element or another first draw you to the practice? That is, were you seeking to settle your mind? Have greater physical flexibility? Explore your true, spiritual nature?
curiosity about the practice in general, wanting to learn something new
How about now: does yoga feed your mind or your body or your spirit more, or are those elements more in balance than when you started?
feeds my spirit the most
How long have you practiced yoga, and how long did you practice before you started teaching it?
practicing for 19 years, teaching for 11
Do you have a preferred yoga style?
love them all — Hatha if I have to pick one
When you were starting your yoga journey, what came easiest and what was more challenging?
easiest — breathing; more challenging — full presence in the practice
What have been the greatest benefits of yoga for you?
experiencing life with greater ease, grace & purpose
From your experience as a teacher, can you generalize about what comes easiest for beginners and what is more challenging?
easiest — exploring poses; more challenging — settling the mind
I understand you work with sound healing, particularly Crystal Alchemy Singing Bowls. Is that a regular part of your yoga sessions?
yes — they provide a lovely atttunement
Apart from yoga, do you practice other techniques of mindfulness or meditation?
yes, many! — mindfulness has become this way of moving through the world for me — I also love metta meditation and heart coherence
Do you regularly do other forms of exercise?
hiking, cycling, weight-lifting, and stand up paddle boarding
Outside of a yoga session, do you ever just strike a pose and stretch? If so, which pose and where?
standing crescent moon pose whenever I need to perk myself up a bit — I’ll do this anywhere
You have a choice: lead a yoga class (1) outdoors on a beautiful day, overlooking the ocean, or (2) in a well-designed, very comfortable minimalist indoor space. Which do you pick?
how about an open air studio overlooking the ocean — there’s something magical about weaving the elements of the natural world into a practice
—interview © Marshal Zeringue