Be inspired by Samara Speller...

It is very clear that Samara Speller is beyond her years. She has a thirst to learn about yoga, anatomy and people. And her thirst is inspiring.  

Her yogic journey inspires me and I would like her to inspire you.

Photo by Kristina Kashtanova. IG:@icreatelife_

1. How long have you been teaching?

1.5 years

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

I never had any desire to be at the front of a room full of people, as public speaking has always made me feel ill but the more I practiced and learned the more I wanted to share with others. Teaching has taught me many things. Among them:

a) How to not take things personally: students' facial expressions while they're practicing, their reactions to you/to themselves, feedback/suggestions etc.

b) How rare it is to find a body with no injuries. Everybody's got something so you can never make an assumption about someone's practice just from watching them.

c) Instant forgiveness of self. When I first started teaching I would get completely thrown off and lose my confidence if I made a mistake such as saying right instead of left or hand instead of foot. This kind of self consciousness is selfish because it means I'm thinking more about myself than my students. Teaching taught me how to roll with the punches. I still make little mistakes all the time but I brush them off because it's not about me, it's about them.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

My dear friend Mathieu Boldron taught me about abundance. He told me about another teacher who gave him the advice to only give a little bit of information to students at a time so that they keep coming back for more. I asked him what he thought about that and he shook his head and told me he believes in abundance.

Being stingy or withholding comes from a place of fear, as if there isn't enough success or brilliance to go around. Ever since then I have seen in my own life how the more I give, the more I receive. Only good things can come from generosity.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

5-7 days a week depending on my schedule and how I feel.

5. Who inspires your practice?

The other people in the room. I love practicing in group classes. I usually only have about a 10% visual awareness of the two people on either side of me and 0% of everyone else but I can still hear and feel the presence of everyone moving together and it's magic. It's union. Plus, I'm an introvert so getting to be with other people without the need to talk to them is heaven.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

Because I teach. Every cue that I give in class is something that I do in my practice as well. If I can't feel it in my own body then I would never instruct someone else to.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

The yoga practice is a tool. Just like any other tool, knowing when, why, and how to use it will get you the most out of it.

8. Where are you currently teaching?

I teach group classes everyday in Brooklyn. Goodyoga in Greenpoint/Bushwick and Lighthouse Yoga School in Williamsburg. I teach privately as well, all over New York City.

9. How has yoga helped your character develop?

It's made me more conscious of my own behavior patterns. The more I become aware of my own patterns the more I see how they affect myself and others. I'm able to see myself in others and others in myself very clearly. Because of this, life has become a lot less dramatic. The jig is up, so to speak. I can't tell stories to myself that I'm a victim or everyone else is crazy or I'm crazy or whatever the case may be because I know none of that is true. Any frustrations I have with anyone else are temporary and will soon be replaced with compassion. Compassion is an equilibrium. It's almost disappointing because being dramatic is fun.

10. What has kept you practicing all these years?

That there is no obligation. I can stop any day I want and that's why I don't. For many people, discipline is what draws them to the practice and keeps them going. "Do it because it must be done." That doesn't work for me. The second I have to do something, I don't enjoy it anymore. I do what I love and that's it.

11. What is your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook name?

Instagram: @eatdrinksavasana

Website: www.samaraspeller.com

Jennifer Lynn Tune describes to us what inspires her, let it inspire you.

One thing is for sure, Berlin is very fortunate and lucky to have this amazing teacher, Jennifer Lynn Tune. Her classes are consistently filled with love, compassion, a push to your edge and wisdom. 

This is what inspires her practice...

1. How long have you been teaching?

I have been teaching since 2012.

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

I had been really curious about teaching for a while but couldn't find the courage to commit to a teacher training. I've got to give credit to Kathryn Maykish who pretty much shattered all my excuses and gave me that final push that I needed. I'm so very grateful for her persistence.

Teaching yoga has taught me so much about authenticity and connection. I've relaxed so much as a teacher over the years. I used to over-prepare and worry about not giving enough to my students but I have learned to shift my focus to truly seeing, listening and showing up for them. If I want to help someone find ease and freedom, I want to be practicing what I preach.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

I've been really lucky to have had so many teachers around me who have consistently pushed themselves to go deeper and not get complacent. I really couldn't point out just one of them. I've learned stillness, trusting the natural intelligence of my body, I've learned discipline and to not fall into negotiating with my own mind. Again and again, fellow teachers have seen potential in me that I couldn't see myself and I'm so grateful for those moments of limitlessness.

I'm really inspired by yogis who embody the idea of "ease inside effort".

4. How many times a week do you practice?

I absolutely love to move, in as many different ways as possible. I like intensity and challenge, so I have to be mindful that I listen to my body. I practice most days but have started to put the focus on meditation over asana.

5. Who inspires your practice?

I don't follow one particular lineage but I definitely gravitate most towards a vinyasa type style of yoga. I find the rhythm of moving with your breath incredibly therapeutic. It usually starts with an idea or a word (like "stability" or "freedom") and then I create a practice around that.

Jared McCann has been a huge influence on me. His classes changed me and opened me up like no other.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

The practice puts things into perspective for me. I've had countless days where I was mulling over a perceived problem, took class and all of a sudden couldn't remember what the issue was. The practice makes my world feel bigger.

It gives me an appreciation for my body that I want to remind myself of, daily.

And most of all, it gives me that feeling of connection that I'm always looking for.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

I want to do my part to spread the benefits of stillness, pausing, doing less. And being rather Type A myself, I know how challenging the quiet moments can be in the beginning.

There is no one right way to practice. I hope to help students trust their instincts and their body's natural intelligence more. Sometimes the practice is really just how to get out of your own way.

8. Where are you currently teaching?

I recently moved but was lucky to find a great community at Berlin Hot Yoga, where I currently teach Hot, Vinyasa and Yin.

9. How has yoga helped your character develop?

I've definitely relaxed into myself through yoga. Like with anything else, it's a work in progress but it's become so much easier to trust my curiosity and show up fully and honestly.

10.What has kept you practicing all these years?

I really just love to move. I enjoy variety, so I move back and forth between different styles of yoga but I've really never had a problem motivating myself to practice. It just feels so good and there's always another layer to peel back, a way to go deeper. I'm thrilled to be part of the yoga community.

Quazzy inspires us with his 'Quazzy'ness...

I remember teaching Quazzy the breathing sequence his first class. And I am so proud of his evolution as a teacher. The past 3 years, I have watched him improve his anatomy, care for his students and allowed his character to develop. He is clearly inspired and now, let him inspire you.

1. How long have you been teaching?

Summer 2014 - Yoga To The People TT20 baby!

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

My first Yoga class was with a guy named Johnny, and Johnny is a former tough guy turned Yogi Bad Ass. I experienced a yoga class in a way I otherwise thought non existent.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

"Don't Fuck It Up". Unpacking that:

1. Be aware of your students.

2. Know your material.

3. Be helpful in a way that supports the teaching and not the ego.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

I breathe everyday.

5. Who inspires your practice?

God. Kobe. Kanye. The Sag (Saginaw Michigan). Peace. Love. Light.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

Life is inherently practice, and I choose to live because I love.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

Breathing, and the Subtle Body.

8. Where are you currently teaching?

Yoga To The People and Cross Fit Bridge and Tunnel.

9. How has yoga helped your character develop?

Now, I'm Quazzy Quaz in HD.

10.What has kept you practicing all these years?

The undeniable evidence of change.

11. What is your Instagram, Twitter and Faacebook name?

Catch me Earf. Nuff said.

Hali Tsotetsi tells us about what inspires her practice

Image by Alcy Sivyer

Hali has been practicing yoga for fifteen years. She started in her native country, South Africa with The Ashtanga practice. She stopped for a few years and found herself practicing again after she left dance and an unhealthy relationship at the age of 19. Through yoga, she has found acceptance and love that she had never been able to give herself and realized that she was the only one who could make herself happy. She became a yoga teacher and wellness professional five years ago. She has studied with Jared McCann, Joshua Rosenthal, Deepak Chopra, Frank Lipman, Erin Rose Vaughan and many others in the wellness community. She teaches Bikram, Vinyasa, Advanced Vinyasa, Yin and Ashtanga.
Hali was born in New York but raised in South Africa, her parents native country, and England. She has been mentioned in The New York Times, MindBodyGreen and Thrive Global. She also runs BiologiqueLife, an online magazine about living organically. She believes that everyday has been sent to us in order for our souls to flourish through challenge and gratitude.

1. How long have you been teaching?

I have been teaching for almost 4 years.

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

I came to a point in my life where I couldn't live without yoga. It may sound like an addiction; however, I live in New York and without yoga, I noticed that my anxiety increased, my stress levels went up and my faith in life narrowed. Yoga helps me expand: my breath, my body and my mind. So, with that in mind, I wanted to be a medium for others to expand too.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher? From Emalia Dawson, I have learnt that I, as a teacher, can be firm yet nurturing.

From Jared McCann, I have learnt many things but mostly to keep things simple and that I am worthy of what I want. From Yancy Schwartz- years ago- he told us in class to use our intelligence. These words were so powerful to me because yoga helps us access intelligence that we have always had. From Bryan Nygard, I have learnt to keep up with the current anatomy as research is always changing and scientists are discovering new things about the body. From Holly Colino, I have learnt to push myself within reason- she was my mentor during my first TT. I really also learn from every class that I take and I feel very fortunate to be able to practice.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

It depends. Sometimes everyday and sometimes 5 times a week. I don't like to get stuck in rigidity. I know when my body and mind need yoga.

5. Who inspires your practice?

Honestly, this question is a lot more difficult to answer than I thought 😀 The usuals: Kino McGregor, Jared McCann and Talia Sutra- of course. However, the conversations that I have with my friends about yoga inspire me, truly. My friends in the yoga community are people that I cherish so much and I am so grateful to have them in my life.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

To stay grounded and be aware of myself. So much damage comes from people being unaware and I want to avoid that. I want to be the best version of myself that I am able to be.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

To step outside of yourself and to honour the 5000 year-old science of yoga. We are blessed to be able to practice. Up until recently, only a small population was allowed to practice yoga. Now that we have access, we need to be cautious with it. I am an African and even though I started meditating and practicing yoga at a young age, I must be careful not to culturally appropriate and fetishize such a pure practice.

8. Where are you currently teaching?

Taking a minor break from teaching for KindGirlco. and BiologiqueLife.

9. How has yoga helped your character develop?

It's helped me pause and analyze my decisions, without judgement. Knowing that tomorrow, I can do it again differently and that how it was done before was not bad, it just wasn't how I want to do it in the future.

10. What has kept you practicing all these years?

The need to release. For some reason, I have had a challenging time in romantic relationships. A re-occurring trend in my love life is to be left or abandoned from my partner, which has been very difficult; however, yoga has helped me feel supported. Hopefully, I am learning from my mistakes and yoga has helped me deal with them in a way that makes me stronger each time. As I get stronger, I don't put up with disrespect and lack of consideration, from myself and my partner, like I used to.

11. What is your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook name?

Instagram: @halitsotetsi

Twitter: @kindgirlco.

Facebook: Hali Tsotetsi

Mara Lileas tells us about her yogic journey

I am a huge fan of Mara, her positive energy and strength is palpable and contagious. Let it spread to you through this article.

1. How long have you been teaching?

 I've been teaching since 2012.

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

A good friend and teacher Ted Caine motivated me to start teaching. I was avoiding it for a while. Making excuses to why I didn't want to try but ultimately I realized at the time, yoga was the one thing in my life that made me feel very happy and very connected not only to myself but the whole amazing universe around me.

Now I see that I can choose to be happy and choose to connect. As a teacher I see a LOT of very different people out there and it's so amazing how many right ways there are to connect with yourself and others, how many right ways there are to stretch and strengthen, how many right ways there are to live your life.

: )

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

That as you progress in yoga, you can't rely only on sensation. Only labeling feelings as good or bad.  It's important to start implementing measurements, alignment, and geometry into your practice.

4.How many times a week do you practice?

I practice everyday. It's always different, but I do something for myself everyday.

5. Who inspires your practice?

Me : ) and of course the people around me. But, ultimately my practice is a connection between my body and my breath and all the amazing exploration I can do between those things.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

It feels like a great time to really care for myself. To stay openly interested and curious while challenging myself the kindest and most considerate way possible : )

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

That connecting with yourself and making time for yourself is wildly important. That there are a lot of right ways to do that, and to let go of judgements and expectations on what that should be. That wether we know it or not our practices affect everyone we come into contact with and we really have the power to ripple out our care and attention from ourselves to others and making this world a better place to be in.

8.Where are you currently teaching?

Brooklyn Boulders Queensbridge, Jewel City Yoga, NP Rock Yoga

9.How has yoga helped your character develop? 

Yoga has helped me out of very dark, depressed, and anxious times in my life. And helped me to find a lightness that lets go of judgement and expectations and connects me more to myself. I used to spend a lot of time worrying about others, and what they thought of me. Yoga helps me to practice letting that go.

10. What has kept you practicing all these years?

Everyday is a new day. A new body. A new practice. There's so much to explore!

11.What is your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook name?

Insta:marbq

      FB: Mara Lileas

  No twitter yet

Image from NP Rock Yoga website. 

Shakiem Evans introduces us to HOT HIIT, available at some Hot yoga studios

  If you have not taken a Hot HIIT class, I highly recommend taking it. I love it. Particularly Shakiem's class,  I never thought that muscular activity could be so fun. I think his dance background allows students to absorb the fun of it all. He, himself, thoroughly enjoys it and it is very apparent.

Here is Shakiem's Hot HIIT journey.  

1.  How long have you been instructing HIIT?

For 3 months

2. The class is so fun. Whait motivates you to have fun?

HIIT is high intensity so keeping it fun helps students get through the class.

P.S. - A banging playlist helps!!!LOL

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow instructor?

My favorite classes are when the instructors are challenging yet compassionate and understanding. I strive to be just that.

4. How many times a week do you do HIIT?

3x a week is good to maintain a healthy practice. You'll really start to see the benefits. muscle toning, strong abs, glutes and legs.

5. Who inspires you to teach HIIT?

The students who want to learn how to burn the maximum amount of fat and calories and at the same time strengthen their core inspire me to teach!

6. Why is it necessary for you to do HIIT?

Because a strong CORE is the key to a strong body!  Core is the focus of the entire class. Also we incorporate the cardio in to burn fat and calories. I know people hate doing cardio but it's important. It's the ONLY way to burn fat and calories no matter ppl say.

7. What message do you like to spread through instructing?

Whatever you put into YOUR class, THAT'S what you'll get out of it.  Keep in my mind, it's your class. Work at your maximum but mindfully.

8. Where are you currently teaching HIIT?

Bikramyoganyc in New York  and Zuramontclair in Montclair, NJ

9. What outside struggle has HIIT helped you deal with? If so, how?

There's always haters!  Some people didn't believe in me, so every time  I teach the class, I'M LIKE ,  FU** YOU!!!!!!  lol

Audrey Wayne inspires us with her beautiful words about Yoga

If you have met or taken Audrey's class, you will know how sincere and genuine she is with her compassion and intention.  

Here are her words from her yogic journey. 

How long have you been teaching?

About two years

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

I was actually convinced by my friend, Emmie, to go through the teacher-training. I had been practicing yoga for about a year and a half at that point and never imagined being an instructor. I was really captivated by all the amazing teachers I had at Yoga to the People II, such as Nikki Carter, Talia Peretz, Jared McCann, and Scotty Schwartz. I wanted to inspire others the way they inspired (and continue to inspire) me.

Teaching has given me a voice that I never had. I was always very shy, and had a really tough time with public speaking. I was the girl that would never raise her hand in class if she had a question because she was afraid of sounding stupid. Teaching has empowered me in so many ways .I have learned that I can be confident in sharing what I know and humbled by the fact that I will always have more to learn about this practice. Knowing that I will always be a student gives me comfort and being vulnerable creates space for growth.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

Something that I've learned from all my mentors is that as a teacher, we can never really know what each person stepping into the studio is going through. This insight inspires me to lead with compassion and respect. It encourages me to hold space for each student and be extra thoughtful in how I communicate and interact with every individual, inside and outside of the studio.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

I'm always practicing yoga! The physical practice is just one piece of the puzzle. Recently my practice has been focused on self care. Doing little things for myself as often as possible so that I can be my best self. Something like treating myself to a nice lunch, applying a face mask, going on a longer than usual walk with my dog, calling a friend or watching my favorite show in the middle of the day. It might seem silly, but sometimes even the simplest things can boost my mood (which, of course, also includes the physical practice of yoga!). I practice asana 4-5 times a week on average. I don't put too much pressure on myself to practice everyday. Taking breaks is another form of self care. The yoga will always be here and I will always come back to it.

5. Who inspires your practice?

Every yogi! I am constantly amazed by the yoga community and how dynamic and vast it is. On the days that I'm feeling uninspired, I like trying out a new studio in NYC. I typically won't go to the same teacher's class until I've tried all of the other instructors. I'm interested in having new experiences and I always learn at least one thing from every class I take. I love seeing how teachers and students make this ancient universal practice their own. I'm also super inspired by the yogis on Instagram. I find it fascinating how you can never meet someone but still feel very connected to their journey and growth.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

Yoga has become vital in my life because it reminds me that I am part of a whole. I have a tendency to let my struggles and anxiety consume me. It's hard to explain, and I know almost every yogi says this, but it's true: yoga connects you with yourself and the world around you. It's through this natural connection that I am better able to process my emotions and experiences as well as empathize with others. The practice constantly pushes me to challenge my perspective. Right now, yoga has inspired me to be more of an observer. Something that I have been working on lately is talking less and listening more.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

I like to encourage my students to make conscious choices so that they can continue to do what's best for them outside of the studio. This practice doesn't live on a mat. It lives within the practitioner and it is all around us. Your practice offers constant opportunities to experiment, to do something different, to change your mind. I aim to create a space where students feel safe to explore, try, get messy, fall, laugh, cry, reach an edge, pull back, move faster, move slower, twist, turn- all information and it's all a breakthrough. Every part of you is welcome. I want my students to feel empowered in their practice, and if that means completely ignoring my voice and doing their own thing, I am thrilled. I hope those who take my class feel supported and free.

8. Where are you currently teaching?

Yoga to the People and private lessons

9. Has yoga helped through some painful?

If so, what and how?I recently went through a traumatic experience that pulled me away from my teaching and my own personal practice. I was so wrapped up in the negativity and evil of the world that part of me resented the positivity found in yoga. After a month long hiatus with the practice, I realized that what I really missed was the community. I spent 4 weeks holed up in my apartment, and based on past experiences I knew that it was becoming extremely unhealthy. I felt weak and depressed, and noticed that my anxiety had hit an all time high. There wasn't a single "a-ha" moment that brought me back, it was just that I had nothing left to lose. I thank my higher power that I had a yoga practice prior to my experience because I truly don't know where I'd be right now if I didn't. I forced myself back to my home studio and also started an intro package at a new studio for the times when I wanted to feel anonymous. I completed a Trauma Informed Yoga training that opened my eyes to my experience and helped me understand how I can be sensitive towards others who have been through trauma. I still have down days, but I find peace in knowing I can step onto my mat to move that energy around. This practice is important and it heals. You just have to open your heart to it. 

10. What is your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook name? Just an Instagram - @audreywayneyoga

Lara Saget describes her motivational yogic journey

I have had the pleasure of knowing Lara for almost 7 years. In all of this time, she has always been kind, gracious and loving. It is apparent in her yoga classes too.

She shares her yoga experience with us...

1. How long have you been teaching? 

I have been teaching for seven years.

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

I have been practicing yoga since I was four years old (or perhaps since I could recognize conscious movement). I was my mom's "yoga baby" so to speak. She started doing yoga when she was pregnant with me, and she would have instructors and practitioners come to the house. I always loved yoga, and it has always been an integral part of my life. When I was 17, I worked at an orphanage in Brazil and decided to attempt to teach yoga. I found it incredible how yoga could be such a universal point of connection. In that moment, I knew that spreading yoga was something that I wanted to do. 

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

I have learned patience from my teachers for sure (well I'm still learning it) and how important the practice of slowing down is. 

4. How many times a week do you practice?

I practice most days.

5. Who inspires your practice?

I am inspired to practice because I think there is always more to play with, more to notice, more to sense, things to learn. Yoga helps me move deeper in a way that resonates with me. 

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

I learn a lot through practicing. But I also learn a lot when the meaning of practice changes for me- from a group class, to meditation, to hiking, to running, to swimming- what is that space within stillness and movement that feels grounded and yet fluid?

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

I like to spread awareness through teaching. I like to invite inquiry- what happens when it's not about the shape? What comes up when it's hard? When it feels too easy? What are the things that pop up in a yoga practice that must exist somewhere else too? I also like to spread the message that it can feel really really good to be kind to ourselves, to listen to ourselves like we are helpless children and perhaps be able to hone in on what it means to give ourselves what we need. 

8. Where are you currently teaching? 

I am currently teaching private lessons and at Yoga to the People 

9. How has yoga helped your character develop? 

Yoga has made me a more thoughtful person, greatened my threshold for tolerance or discomfort, and I think enlarged my ability to be compassionate to myself and to others. 

9. What has kept you practicing all these years?

Honestly, I just love it. I am grateful for the practice and for my teachers. I truly don't know what my life would look like without the practice of yoga. 

10. What is your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook name? @larasaget 

Larasagetyoga.com

Emmie Danza talks inspiration and motivation.

I have witnessed Emmie Danza become a wonderful teacher. Her metamorphosis inspires me and now let her words inspire you...

1.How long have you been teaching?

It will be 2 years this coming August.

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

The practice motivated me to teach. I was attending classes religiously at Yoga to the People II on 23rd street when I moved back to New York after studying abroad in Denmark. I never thought I was a yogi until I started to come face-to-face with this inherent desire to deepen my practice- probably as a result of all the dance I did growing up. I was incredibly inspired by the teachers I had there and fell in love with the community. I know that it didn’t entirely start as a desire to teach, but it quickly developed into a love for sharing the knowledge I was accumulating and connecting with other students and teachers along the way. What I’ve learned from teaching is that you are never done learning. Ever.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

I am constantly learning new things from fellow teachers (and students!), so much so that it’s hard for me to pinpoint just one thing. What sticks out in my mind currently is the importance of slowing down, especially in New York. If you see me in a yoga class, I tend to move quite quickly- my dance background makes me want to flow. However, after being trained in Yin, I have found that my body yearns for softness and very mindful movement. I am working every day to slow down not only in my own practice but in my teaching as well.  

4. How many times a week do you practice?

What I have come to understand about humans is that we are all practicing all the time. Whether it’s practicing love with my significant other, meditation with each step I take, or Yin when I choose to slow down for 10 minutes; I am practicing all the time, sometimes it just doesn’t “look” like yoga. I practice asana as often as I can, but I also am constantly reminding myself that the fulfillment of my yoga is not predicated on how often I step onto my mat. I teach quite a bit now and often times that is my yoga for the day. With that being said, I like being active and I love to move. 

5. Who inspires your practice?

So many people, things, moments, interactions. Yoga is all around me all the time. 

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

The practice is absolutely necessary in my life because the benefits never cease to amaze me. I feel a deep connection to yoga because of the way we found each other. Yoga and I were introduced during a dark time in my life and it completely pulled me out into the light, both mentally and physically. With that being said, we have also gone through a lot of different phases together too— I was obsessed at the start, compulsively practicing for a minimum of an hour everyday and only then would I feel “successful." After starting to teach full time, I lost sight of my personal practice and I felt very stuck and stagnant in my ability to be creative and spiritual inside of my own personal movement- we hit a rough patch. I've only fairly recently found what I now think is a healthy relationship with my practice-- I don’t squirm with guilt anymore if I am unable to step onto my mat that day because I know it will be there for me tomorrow, the next day, and so on.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

Appreciation for one’s body and mind, connection that goes beyond your physical body, open mindedness, collective energy, and above all else, love.

8. Where are you currently teaching? 

Sweat Yoga in Tribeca, New York Yoga Hot in the Upper East Side, Jewel City Yoga in Brooklyn, and Yoga Herald Square in Midtown. 

9. How has yoga helped your character develop? 

Oh boy, this is a loaded question for me! Let's just say I have become more aware of my actions, hopefully in a good way. I'm still changing, adapting, growing, and learning every day. Yoga has taught me that we are all trying our best all the time, and that has changed my character for the better. I work everyday to make sure that I am reminding myself that I'll never know someone's whole story- compassion and empathy come first. 

9. What has kept you practicing all these years?

It might sound so contrived but I feel the yoga in my heart. It is part of who I am. It is one of the few things in my life that I am absolutely certain of. 

10. What is your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook name? 

Instagram: @emmieyoga

Twitter: @emmiedanza

No Facebook for me!

Be inspired by Yancy Scwartz...

There is no doubt that Yancy, who some may know as 'Scotty', Scwartz is a true yogi. By true, I mean that he has learnt to detach the Ego from his teaching and practice. 

Let his inspirational words inspire you:

1. How long have you been teaching?

Since 2008

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

It just kinda fell into place. The more I wanted to practice, the more I wanted to teach. I learned how to be more compassionate to others through teaching. Whatever I teach, I'd better be doing because it makes the teaching authentic. People know and feel what's real and what's not. 

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

I learned how to say less from my Dharma teachers. 

4. How many times a week do you practice?

My main practice is a specific mantra and pranayama routine sitting in lotus. That happens 5 days a week. Physical asana I do everyday for fun. 

5. Who inspires your practice?

My friends, the people around me. 

6. Why is it necessary to you to practice?

Because it will help spread consciousness and awareness. With that consciousness and awareness I can walk around more liberated. 

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

Stimulate your sixth sense and tap into your higher self. Operating from your higher self is a peaceful and compassionate place to be. 

8. Where are you currently teaching? 

Sweat Yoga, Hot 8 Yoga Santa Monica, Create Yoga and Hollywood Power Yoga 

9. How has skateboarding been a part of your yogic journey? 

It's a catalyst because you are constantly using your legs, so that takes care of your lower body. Yoga is a lot of upper body. So you spread awareness, consciousness through your lower body, your upper body. Once you master your body you can go beyond it. To skateboard you must be fully present like in yoga except in skateboarding if you are not present the consequences are a lot greater. 

9. Has yoga helped you through something that you struggled with? If so, what and how?

I've broken my wrist and foot skateboarding, and yoga has helped me recover. Yoga has helped me to not feel limited. Little by little yoga can help you rebuild and work past certain injuries. 

10. What has kept you practicing?

It's my dharma. I teach, so I must practice so I am always in the students position. Its a prerequisite for the job.

Follow him on Instagram: @yancyscotschartz Visit his website: www.yancyyoga.com

Sarah Ghilardi inspires us, by sharing her experience of yoga with us.

The first time that I  took Sarahs class, I felt as though my body was burning in my places that I had never imagined. It was an inferno hot pilates class- a pilates class done in surroundings similar to a hot yoga class. Truly, the only thing that kept me going was her bubbly energy and her convncing me that I could make it through. She inspired me that day and inspires many as a yoga and pilates teacher. 

These are some inspirational words from her:

1. How long have you been teaching?

Five years. I teach bikram yoga, vinyasa yoga and inferno hot pilates. 

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

The students, their problems, their willingness to change and willingness to listen. Leadership, command and helping them to change. 

Teaching gives me the ability to learn, command and share positivity with my students.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

Their experience, their passion, their command and there enthusiasms for teaching.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

6 classes a week

5. Who inspires your practice?

Actually me, myself, and practitioners around me.

6. Why is it necessary to you to practice?

Because it feels good, it inspires me, it gives me clear vision and stability.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

That health is wealth, your body is your temple. Take care of yourself first before taking care of others. 

8. Where are you currently teaching? 

Lighthouse yoga school in Brooklyn 

YOBK in Brooklyn 

Bikram yoga LES in Manhattan 

Yoga Herald Square in Manhattan 

The Yoga Room in LIC

9. Has yoga helped you through something that you struggled with? If so, what and how?

• I was trying to know more about myself-yoga gives me more clarity about myself.
• I was learning to be a presenter-yoga gives me that presenting capability.
• I was trying to learn a good diet for me - yoga gives me clarity about what my body want.

10. Tell us about Inferno Pilates. Why is it a great compliment to yoga?

It's a practice where students see benefits very fast.The heat makes them sweat even more ( cleansing, detoxing ). The music inspires and motivates them.The moments are fast but secondary. Like in yoga, first the breath and form. You also need a calm mind you get from practicing asanas to practice Inferno hot pilates to keep going and you get the strength to do the posture by practicing Inferno hot pilates. It's a great combination.

Federico DAnna expands on his commitment to the practice

If you have ever taken his class, it is apparent that Federico has a deep passion for yoga. He exudes a thirst for yoga that is inspiring. 

He shares with us his journey as a yogi:

        1. How long have you been teaching?

        I have been teaching for 4 years.

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

When I'm in love with something I wanna talk about it all the time, I wanna share it. I guess becoming  a Yoga teacher was the best way for me to have people listening to me talking about Yoga.I also figured that if Yoga was so exiting to me I would have been a good vehicle, a good vessel.I try my best to be just a vessel.

I learn so much everyday from teaching, one of the thing I'm really focusing in these days is trying not to let my ego get involved.I learned that it's very important to get into a place of clarity with myself, whenever I can. I see my ego trying to get in the way but I can be clear enough not to act or say things from there, when I can be that clear, I can give and help and be of service to the students. I try to constantly recenter myself into that place of clarity. This is  a moment-by-moment practice for me while I teach, it takes a lot of energy and focus but that makes my job very rewarding and keeps me peaceful because I feel I can really give. 

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

           I try to take all the classes I can with the teachers I respect more, and if you ask  me what I                learned from them the answer is: EVERYTHING! 

I try to learn always, it's a natural process for me: I try to learn new tricks for a pose, or I try to absorb a specific energy of a teacher I admire, or the subtleties of a brilliant dialogue, I also really love to observe how the best teachers connect with their students cause I think the most important thing in teaching is the ability to connect.

 My classes are always evolving  because I keep taking classes with great teachers, in that way I keep learning new things, I absorb new energies and all I have to do is to share that with my students.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

I try to practice every day, but I don't do Asanas everyday. I try to practice Asana at least 5 days a week and keep a daily  Sadhana practice with meditation, Pranayama, Kriyas and recently, some chanting. Pranayama helps me be clear and centered when I teach so I try to practice it at least the days I have to teach before my classes.

5. Who inspires your practice?

So many people inspire me, besides the well known gurus and texts like the Yoga Sutras, or Yogananda texts, which I've always found inspiring and I always go back to when I feel lost, here in New York. I have many names of good inspiring Yogis: Dharma Mittra Jared McCan, Erin Vaughn, Jason Morris - these are only few names. Also every Yogi that devotes themselves to help others is an inspiration to me. I think you can be a great Yogi without practicing Asanas or Pranayana, a Yogi is someone who search freedom, union knowledge, who is selflessly in service, it doesn't matter how, whenever I find these qualities  in someone, it's very inspiring and beautiful to me, that's Yoga.

6. Why is it necessary for you to practice?

I just feel I need to practice. I have always felt that way.

Even before I met Yoga, I had my Yoga practice. I'll try to explain: even when I had no idea of what Yoga was, I always felt I needed at least an hour or so a day to dedicate myself to something completely and without distractions, something in which I could focus 100 per cent of my attention, I didn't  know what Asana or Meditation was until few years ago, but  when I was a child I recited my prayers every day and I remember I had all sorts of personal weird rituals.Then, in my 20s I was an actor and my Yoga at that point was practicing some relaxation and acting techniques to create physical and emotional realities to create a truthful and vibrant performance. 

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

I want them to know and trust that  we can all find a place inside ourselves where everything is perfect exactly the way it is. That whatever your perceived  limitations are, they are an just an illusion. Everything we need and want is already in us! All OF US. Realizing this on a deep level is not easy; it's the actual goal of YOGA. Its not just an idea, and just thinking about it won't help. It does not come for free, it's a practice and it's a lifelong journey. Of course it might be intense, scary at times, or boring at times, there are many obstacles in the path, but yoga also  gives us the tools to overcome the obstacles, and what else would you spend your energy on? And the cool part of it is that you don't have to wait to be enlightened to experience glimpse of that perfection, knowledge, freedom and bliss. Yoga will help you right away. You'll feel 'peaceful' or 'free' or 'strong' or maybe just generally 'better' right away after your first Asana session. So just go to yoga and something will happen to convince you....trust those feelings and be curious to investigate deeper cause it's worthy.

8. Where do you currently teach?

New York I teach at The Yoga Room, Yogatothepeople, Yoga Herald Square, when I go to Rome to visit my friends and family I teach for Bikram Yoga Rome

9. Has yoga helped you through something that you struggled with? If so, what and how?

It helps immensely with the stepping stone that made me absolutely sure and gave me infinite trust. 

I have always had the feeling I had to achieve something in life, and this obsession, this vortex of my mind has always been so strong in me that for the most part I have always been living in a state of struggle to get somewhere, to demonstrate to the world that I had value, to get recognition, to succeed. So when I felt close to my goals, that would made me happy of course but most of the times I used to live in a state of anxiety, depression, a fear or an actual  feeling of existential failure. There was no space around me just to notice the beauty of nature or people or life, just because that vortex was spinning so thick and fast that I couldn't see behind that.

Alter only a few sessions of yoga , while I was laying in Savasana, I started noticing other things that I wouldn't have noticed before. Maybe just a ray of light coming from the window of the hot room, or the shining of the sweat drops on my skin or the breathing sweaty bodies around me ( I started with Bikram Yoga) and I started to notice all the beauty of those things. I started to enjoy the colors and shapes of nature and things and the people around me. And one day I realized that all this beauty around me was perfectly enough for me to enjoy life right now,  I didn't need to achieve something anymore or demonstrate I'm worthy, or being successful to be happy. The world was suddenly beautiful enough for me to be happy right away, I realize that all I had to do was to keep working on  that clarity. It was like a huge painful weight was taken off my shoulders for the first time in my life, and life was good!!

Then I studied the Yoga Sutras and it was all there:

Yoga is stilling the vortexes ( vrittis ) of the mind and cut through all the illusions.

Sara Schwartz shares her yogic journey with us

The yoga community is fortunate to have a person as loving, kind and compassionate as Sara in it. Over the few years that I have known her, she has maintained her kindness and yoga practice.

This yogi is an inspiration. She shares with you some inspirational words. 
 

1. How long have you been teaching?

7 years 

2. What motivated you to start teaching and what have you learnt from teaching?

I started teaching at Yoga to the People in San Francisco. Teaching felt very hard to me, I was painfully shy and had a small voice. Someone, maybe it was Katite, said: In Yoga, if something is hard for you, go towards it. That is the yogic way. So I decided to pursue teaching because I knew it was the most impossible thing for me at the time. I'll tell you within 6 months it became easier. Within 3 years I didn't get nervous anymore. And now, 7 years later, I know teaching yoga is my dharma, my life's purpose. Teaching Yoga I've learned that you never know what someone is going through, so try approach every student as a dear friend. Even the ones on their cellphone and with mean mugs. I've learned tricks and modifications from watching the students. I've learned that if you just stick with something you will get better at it.

3. What is something that you have learnt from a fellow teacher?

I learned some discipline from Yancy "Scotty" Schwartz. I never liked following the rules. Sometimes in yoga if you follow the rules you will receive the benefits. I watched this work for Yancy and so I tried it out. I found there is a comfort, an anchor, in finding some discipline and sticking to it. Right now for me it's my practice of the Gayatri Mantra.

4. How many times a week do you practice?

The first three years I practiced everyday. Then I noticed my body did well with one day off a week. Now I do a daily mantra practice and for asana just listen to my body. If I feel worn down I take a day off. 

5. Who inspires your practice?

I am super inspired by Erin Kelly. She is strong and flexible and moves very slowly. I'm also inspired by Sri Dharma Mittra, Sadguru, Amma and Shiva (King of the Yogis!). 

6. Why is it necessary to you to practice?

Money comes and goes. Beauty comes and goes. Sadly friends and family come and go. The only thing that is truly with us for life is our consciousness, our mind and spirit. The practice connects me with my spirit, helps me understand the workings of my mind. I believe it is one of life's deepest purposes to practice and come to understand what it means to be human.

7. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

My original career dream was to be a U.N. Peacekeeper. The quote in the YTTP quotebook about the monk who wanted to change the world, but realized he had to change himself first really inspired me to pursue yoga instead. I always like to share with the classes that by creating a peaceful environment within yourself you are making a big step towards community and world peace.

8. Where are you currently teaching? 

Red Diamond Yoga, Hollywood Power Yoga, YogaWorks, Equinox and Create Yoga Space. All in Los Angeles!

9. How does being married to a yoga help you develop your practice? 

One of the most wonderful things about our marriage is that we can practice together. Sometimes we meditate at the same time and the focus is so much sharper. We share fundamental values and beliefs. I can come to him with my yoga questions and he always has a great answer. 

10. Has yoga helped you through something that you struggled with? If so, what and how?

Oh my gosh I've had anxiety since I was a small child. I used to get these panic attacks where I couldn't eat or sleep. Just sit there with a racing heart and hurting stomach suffering. And I'll be honest, by my 20's I didn't see how I could live in this miserable skin much longer. I wanted to be free of my body. I knew yoga helped but I hadn't committed to the practice- it took a long time. I think going to India was a turning point for me. I remember reciting a mantra on mala beads next to the Ganges River and for the first time in my life peace flooded over me and I thought: here's my life preserver! The next year I was doing Bikram yoga and getting these crazy panic attacks in the room. Not being able to leave I learned how to use my breath and mental focus to overcome the panic rush. Now I feel pretty much comfortable in my own skin, I enjoy life and think the planet is beautiful, and sometimes if a panic attack comes by I can say: oh its just a panic attack. Theres a distance between me and it. I make a cup of tea and breath it away. 

Devoted yogi, Chauncie Parchment lets us in on his practice.

Chauncie Parchment has a practice that indicates his love for the asanas . He is a devoted yogi with a lot of knowledge. Here are some inspirational words from this yogi.

How long have you been teaching?
I began teaching yoga as an appreciation for Yoga to the people. One of the requirements before you get certified as one of their hot yoga instructors is to teach 20 classes for free as an apprenticeship.

What motivated you to teach and what have you learned?
I've always wanted to live as freely as possible and be in control of my time and energy. Wiring a 9-5 job as a city worker or as an employee of a boutique in clothing ,street or health food store did not permit me a life where I can make my own choices. I didn't like the idea of renting my time for 10, 11 or $12 an hour. I knew that my time was priceless, and to me the work I was doing was empty. I needed to find a job where I can do what I love to do. I wanted to help heal other people while I continued to heal myself. Teaching has taught me that every single day I need to clear quiet observant and helpful.

How many days a week do you practice?
I practice every day and my practice changes from day to day. Some days I can't make it to class so I practice at home, this may consist of a full practice or just Tibetans, pranayama and a couple of Sun salutations.

Who inspires yours practice?
My own belief and curiosity to reveal the secrets and benefits of the yoga practice. Along with the stories of ancient Masters who achieved phenomenal abilities through their yoga practice.

Why do you think it is necessary for you to practice?
I believe it is necessary for me to practice so that  I can remove the the physical, emotional and mental trauma that has caused energetic blockages inside of my body. I feel it is necessary for me to practice removing the conditioning that has been done from living on this earth. To help open my being to many realities that exist and reconnect to the ancient ways and lastly to maintain vitality and longevity.

What message are you trying to spread throughout teaching yoga?

To reconnect with your inner highest most powerful self, to reconnect with your brothers and sisters , to reconnect with your ancestors and to reconnect with the ancient ways of living.

Where are you currently teaching?
I currently teach at Lighthouse Yoga School, Yoga Tribe, Brooklyn Urban Asanas and Hot Spot yoga.

Have you been through anything significant in your life and how has yoga played a role in it? I've had a pretty rocky relationship with my mother and my father and other members in my family growing up we've never fully got along and it's always been a push and pull in ideas and values and I never felt like they accept me for the way I wanted to live. Yoga has given me the space to see the issues that I face within  myself and within my mother and my father so that I can catch these things while they're coming up in conversation and so that I can free myself from the fears and insecurities that are holding me hostage and preventing me from loving my own family and I love myself so I thank yoga for clearing me up mentally so that I am able to open up my heart and accept my mother my father and my family for who they are and how they are and have that loving strong family unit that is necessary for each individual on planet Earth.

From self-hatred to self-love, through yoga.

I truly don’t remember the first time that I decided to dislike myself. I just remember being a kid and wanting to be different. It started with my hair, so I would wear a T-shirt on my head: to appear more white.

Then, I remember refraining from eating because I didn’t feel worth of eating. My self-hatred became so apparent that I would starve myself for a week and then the next week, eat everything that was in the house and throw it up three to four times a day.

When I would wake up, I would think about what I could eat that stopped me from gaining anymore weight that I already had. Because I felt like my body couldn’t deal with being ‘fatter’ than I already was. I had no energy, I would think about food the whole day and go to bed crying because I felt too fat to live in this world that wanted me to be skinnier. I was in pain, mentally and emotionally. I needed a release from the suffering.

I wish I could tell you that I have memories of being a teenage when I didn’t feel this way; however, that would be a lie. I spent over a decade and a half hating myself.

One day, a friend of mine wanted me to join her in a yoga class. I had done yoga on-and-off since I was 14 but this time, I was 20 and had just gone through an intense break-up. As a result, my self-hatred was at an all time high.

So, I went to a vinyasa class in manhattan with my friend. After it, I felt such relief. If I can narrow how I felt down to three words, they would be: relieved, free and worthy. In all of my 20 years of life, I had never felt so in-tune with my body. I felt like my body had a more significant use for it than how it had been used before. Acknowledging my breath and heartbeat helped me recognize that my body is always working to keep me alive, regardless of what it looks like.

I have previously been so hard on myself and my body. However, after 8 years of continuous practice, I can gladly say that I have had my ups and downs to getting here but I truly love myself and my body. Sometimes the thoughts try to sneak in but, I remember that they will fade and I affirm myself that my health is way more important than looking a certain way to live up to pretenses that society has set for me.

My body is a blessing from the universe and I will take care of it, the best way that I can.

Courtney Fitzgerald shares some yogi words with us

If you have ever been in her class, you understand her humour and sense of compassion. She is a yogi whom I admire and would like to share with you some inspirational words from Courtney Fitzgerald:

1. How long have you been teaching? 3 years

2. What motivated you to teach and what did you learn from teaching? I was feeling grateful for all the joy and courage I had found from practicing under a couple of incredible teachers. I wanted to enable others to feel this way. Though I definitely played it cool and said I was doing a teacher training to learn more about the practice. 

3. How many times a week do you practice? I do some type of exercise 6 days a week. I used to do yoga every day and found that that was unhealthy for me. I probably do a standard yoga practice 3-4 times a week. 

4. Who inspires your practice? It's not usually a who. Sometimes it's a meaningful quote. Or when teachers suggest picking a word to use as an intention for the practice, "freedom" is often the first word to pop into my head. Although one time recently it was "puppy" (it worked out fine). My pal/fellow teacher Brian has probably had the most influence over my physical practice because he doesn't let me off the hook with old habits and I appreciate that.

5. Why is it necessary to practice? Practicing yoga lets me feel like I can move through things. And change them. And feel frustrated and clumsy but also calm. And once in awhile I feel like an elegant swan. I feel like I know with more certainty how I feel and what is driving me in my life after I practice. And I also know that it will change over time. 

6. What message do you like to spread through teaching? It's important to feel stable so that you can adventure. You're never stuck and you can always change your mind. 

7. Where are you currently teaching? Y7, The Yoga Room, Yoga Vida, hOM, Exubrancy, various private clients and businesses around the city. 

Meet Yogi and teacher, Natalie Jones

1. How long have you been teaching?

I've been teaching yoga for 5 years and hot Pilates for just under a year.

2. What motivated you to teach and what did you learn from teaching?

After a year of practicing I knew yoga would always be a part of my life. As I continued to practice I found myself fantasizing about teaching and wanting to further my understanding of what I was dedicating so much of my time and energy to. My yoga teachers and my yoga practice impacted my life in such a profound way, I knew sharing that experience with others would be both exciting and fulfilling. As for Inferno Hot Pilates, I fell instantly in love as I had with Bikram yoga, and knew that I would have a blast teaching. Soon I will be certified to teach Bollywood dance, so I think the pattern is: I find a fitness practice I love, then I get certified! Lol

I've learned so much from teaching, geez where to begin? There's a fine balance between telling students what they need to hear but don't always want to hear, and creating a safe, nurturing space. I've found that most people just want to be told what to do, they want to be able to shut off their brain when they enter the room. That's also easier said than done, and you have to meet people where they are. Tough love, if you will. 

3. How many times a week do you practice?

I practice 5 times a week on average. I would practice 9 times if time allowed! 

4. Who inspires your practice?

My fellow teachers and students, as well as my mentors in New England who inspired me to become a teacher. My husband and fellow yoga instructor, Will, inspires and motivates me with his own continued practice and thirst for more and more knowledge. 

5. Why is it necessary to practice?

It is most necessary to practice for overall health, physically as well as mentally. Many students have told me their yoga is better than therapy, and I'v seen countless people heal injuries and ailments through Bikram yoga. THIS STUFF WORKS! You just gotta show up. 

6. What message do you like to spread through teaching?

That letting go and and slowing down are extremely important in our crazy, fast paced world. Finding and practicing stillness is crucial if one wants to create peace and overall health in their life. We can accomplish this through a physical practice such as yoga or Pilates. We have to move and blow off steam before we can truly be still. This is how true transformation takes place. 

7. Where are you currently teaching?

YO BK in Williamsburg and Bikram Yoga Brooklyn in Brooklyn Heights.