When Lois walks into our studio we automatically feel lighter and brighter. Lois has the ability to make anyone feel welcomed and comfortable. She listens. She cares. She loves. And we love her! We are so grateful to have Lois as a teacher with Bella Prana and we are thrilled to showcase her as our Teacher of the Month for June. She shares more on her journey below.
When/How did you discover yoga?
I discovered yoga in 2005. At the time I was competing in duathlons and triathlons. I thought yoga would be great to help my body recover from training. I soon found it was of even greater benefit to my mind. This led me to keep coming to the mat to continue to explore.
What do you love about teaching yoga?
The practice has brought so much to my life, I love sharing it. There are so many lessons you learn on the mat that apply to your life off of the mat as well. I enjoy helping students cultivate a peaceful mind as they explore self-awareness through the mind-body connection. Teaching also encourages me to continually be a student.
How has yoga and meditation changed your life?
Yoga and meditation have brought me home to myself. I am continually learning to be okay with myself just as I am. The compassion I feel for myself extends to the world around me. I also find so much peace in just being present. Everything I need is there if I sit still and breathe.
Why do you teach at Bella Prana?
Bella Prana is my sacred space. I have worked through so many things on my mat with the guidance of the amazing teachers at the studio. The minute I walked through the doors I felt at home. The desk angels, students, and teachers are a loving, supportive community. I completed my 200 HR YTT at Bella Prana in Tampa, FL and it was amazing! I am enrolling in the 300 HR YTT in July. I can’t wait to continue my journey. It is such an honor to teach at Bella Prana.
What book would you recommend to your students?
I recommend Tara Brach’s “Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life with the Heart of a Buddha”. In a culture where there is constant striving, its very easy to feel as though we are not good enough. In this book, Tara Brach breaks through the “trance of unworthiness” in order to help us reconnect with our true self and offer love and compassion.
Bella Prana Yoga & Mediation is located in Tampa, Florida and offers over 90 classes a month.