What led you to start practicing yoga?

Oh, it’s a bit of a nostalgic journey for me. Picture this: my mother, a powerhouse juggling three jobs, used yoga classes as her form of babysitting. So, there I was, a little one being dragged to her yoga sessions. Little did I know that those early moments of “babysitting” would spark a lifelong connection to yoga. Beyond the physical postures, yoga became a portal for me to understand life’s interconnectedness. By mirroring the natural world, I found love in the art of yoga. Yoga metamorphosed into more than a practice; it became my sanctuary and a realm for personal exploration. In quietude of poses, my mind wanders freely, from the tranquil gardens of mindfulness to the untamed forests of creativity, yoga has evolved into my sanctuary. 

How long have you been leading classes for Yoga In Our City?

I’ve been with Yoga In Our City for a while now. I started subbing back in 2018, and I’ve been officially leading classes since 2020. It’s been an incredible journey, witnessing the transformative power of yoga in the lives of those who join our sessions. We’ve had a few participants turn into yoga teacher’s themselves, and others excited to join YIOC’s Happy Warrior Training in 2024!

What inspired you to work as a holistic and ayurvedic nutritionist?

It all stems from my understanding that there’s a profound way to harmonize with nature, especially in what we consume. For me, consumption is this holistic concept—more than just the food we eat; it’s about where, what, how, and when we consume, influencing not just our bodies but our entire experience of life. Ayurvedic nutrition felt like the missing piece, a way to align our diet with the rhythm of the seasons, time of day, and the needs of our unique bodies. It’s not merely a profession; it’s a vocation that allows me to contribute to individuals’ holistic well-being. The joy surfaces when I see the positive impact this approach to nutrition has on someone’s life, not just physically but in the harmony it brings to their entire being.  

How does your work as a holistic and ayurvedic nutritionist parallel the beliefs and practices of yoga?

They are sister sciences. Yoga and Ayurveda are dance partners, moving in harmony to achieve whole-body, mind, and energy wellness. Both emphasize the interconnectedness of everything—what we eat, how we move, and how we live all contribute to our overall well-being. They complement each other beautifully, creating this holistic approach to health that I find incredibly powerful and transformative. 

What advice would you give someone who is considering starting yoga?

You’ve already begun. Whether it’s finding joy in small moments, creating space that feels like a sanctuary, practicing self-care and self-love, or simple being present—it’s all yoga. The philosophy of yoga extends beyond the mat; it’s interwoven into our daily lives. It’s in the mindful breaths we take, the connections we build, and the awareness we bring to each experience. So, take a moment to explore the vast richness of life. Step into new experiences, both on and off the mat, whether through Yoga In Our City’s virtual studio, or in the serenity of the parks! Embrace the journey, and you’ll uncover a world of wellness waiting to unfold.