‘I want all people to feel seen and heard..’
Katie Bishop is a Yoga Teacher in New York.
1. What style of yoga do you teach? And, where are you located?
First off - thanks so much for having me, I’m excited to share with you!
I’m located in NYC & I teach vinyasa yoga, traditional hot/Bikram yoga, yin yoga and meridian yoga -which is a very deep practice based off the 12 primary meridian pathways each associated with an organ that works to release (Qi) blockages for a smooth flow of energy, it’s very powerful!
2. What is your intention behind teaching?
My intention is to be a light in the world, to help people breathe, heal, release repressed emotions and love themselves and then share that love & light with others. I also want to encourage people to trust themselves and to learn to listen to their innermost being because we are our own best teacher. ❤️
3. Who are your mentors in yoga?
I have lots but the most impactful mentors have been Rose Erin Vaughan & Alena Wertalik - I love these women and I am grateful for their teachings!
4. What have they taught you?
The meridian system and anatomy (organs, how bones & muscles move and work together, etc.); to feel every emotion without associating with that emotion/feeling but rather to witness without judgement; and ultimately how to teach & find my "yoga voice" to share this sacred practice with everyone!
5. Please mention a book that you have read about yoga that has had a positive impact on you?
“Science of Breath” by Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine & Alan Hymes - breathing is such an incredible tool that can be used in countless ways - to calm the mind & emotions, heat/cool the body, cleanse the body/release toxins, nourish the organs - and is free and accessible to all! This book is a great resource to learn about pranayama and how to experience the benefits.
I also highly recommend “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius - it’s about stoic detachment from things outside our control & to shift focus to our own will & perception, not specifically about yoga but very insightful.
6. What lesson are you currently learning in your Asana practice?
I’m learning the art of patience! I’ve been working on my pincha & scoprian for almost a year and while I’ve made a ton of progress I'm far from mastering these asanas -which can be discouraging & frustrating at times!
I’m learning to recognize the progress, be grateful for it and embrace the process - regardless of how long it takes - and to notice my frustration without judgement, as a silent witness.
7. How often do you practice?
Every day! Most days I do a 60-90 minute asana practice. When I don’t have time for a full practice I make sure to do a few stretches throughout the day, especially hip & heart openers (I have a “desk job” & can fall victim to sitting for too long or hunching over a keyboard) and some days I just play around with inversions! I also do a few restorative postures at night as part my bedtime ritual:)
8. How do you implement the other 7 limbs of yoga into your life other than Asana?
I practice the yamas (observances) & niyamas (behaviors) as a way of life and use pranayama breathing to manage my anxiety and boost my immune system. I’m working on developing a regular meditation practice:) I love even a few minutes of mindfulness meditation (especially when I need grounding!) and when I make time, loving-kindness meditation is probably my favorite💕
9. Why is being present so important to you?
Being present is incredibly important to me because the present - this moment - is all we have, tomorrow is not gauranteed so we need to be grateful for each breath and live out this gratitude. I want all people to feel seen and heard; we can make someone's day by truly being present - putting the phone down, actively listening and giving eye contact. Plus, being present helps alleviate anxiety and encourages a sense of calm!
10. How can we keep up with you on social media? What is your IG handle and/ FB name?
My IG is @katiebishopyoga and on Facebook I’m Katie Bishop / Katie Bishop Fitness - if you’re reading this I’d love to connect with you! Please feel free to DM me or hop on a zoom class soon!