How has yoga changed your life?
I had been practicing yoga for about 7 years, when in 2007 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, I didn’t realize how much I relied on my yoga practice to get me through the next few years. It made me strong enough to cope with this challenge. My breathing was a life saver, finding calmness and peace during treatments and surgery. After my surgery, I was so limited with my body. Balasana (child’s pose) seemed impossible. During this time I just kept showing up on my mat and slowly my body responded and began to let go and open up again. It was a humbling experience. I am still challenged with chaturanga dandasana, but what is the rush? I am grateful for my practice, the stillness and peace it brings into my life now. It helps me focus on what is here and now. I can’t imagine my life without it!
I originally came to Bella Prana because my friend and teacher Chay started teaching here. She is an amazing teacher and I immediately loved the studio. I finally took my first class with Roni and was blown away. During her class, she not only challenges you physically, but seems to always have topics that you just connect with. Each class is like a mini yoga retreat. All the teachers here seem to possess a unique quality to their classes. All this energy just flows into the studio and it is what makes Bella Prana so special.
Why do I keep coming back? I look for a studio to feel like a home and when I walk into Bella Prana that is exactly what I get. From the teachers to the students there is a great energy here. Everyone is so kind and welcoming. I am so grateful to be able to continue my practice and spiritual journey here.
Why did you decide to teach yoga?
It’s simple. I want to share what I learn with my students. Sharing the strength and stillness that yoga creates is so humbling and rewarding.
“When the world feels too loud, we must be quiet. When the world feels too violent, we must be peaceful. When the world seems evil, we must be good.” Glennon Melton.