After practicing yoga for at least 18 years I recently decided to pursue a long awaited desire to study and become a qualified yoga instructor.
I completed my studies at the highly regarded Byron Yoga Centre, in the beautiful tropical and lush surrounds of Byron Bay, NSW, Australia. The 3 week teacher training was an immersive experience which included practical teaching classes open to the public to attend.
Shiva Mural at Byron Yoga Centre, NSW
I found the course to be intensive with long days and fast paced teaching, which came with some emotional ups and downs. However, I loved the opportunity of having the time to dedicate fully with no distractions from the outside world. I am so very grateful for this life changing experience and I will treasure it always.
Not only did I study 28 foundation poses, (learning their sanskrit names) but the course delved into yoga philosophy, meditation, pranayama (breath techniques), anatomy, adjustments/corrections and sequencing.
Studio set up for final assessment.
I am now very keen to share the holistic benefits that yoga brings, providing inner calm to the mind together with strength and vitality to the body.
The health benefits that yoga offers are amazing!
Morning walks and sunrises
I have noticed significant changes to my body temperature when sleeping. Prior to the 3 week yoga immersion I would regularly wake during the night feeling hot and have to toss my doona off to cool down (one of the hormonal effects from menopause) and now this doesn’t happen.
The poses Salamba Sarvangasana (shoulder stand prep), Matsyasana (fish) and Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge) were practiced daily and all stimulate the thyroid gland which helps to regulate hormones. My belief is that the combination of these poses together with Ardha Matsyendrasana 3 (seated spinal twist that internal massages the liver) have worked their magic and regulated my hormonal balance.
The awareness of breath and meditation brings calm and mindfulness, which in turn assists focus and clarity in everyday life. As a result my sleep has improved and my energy levels are higher.
I believe that this ancient practice from India can enhance the life of everybody and I am super keen to share this by guiding and instructing others to the best of their capabilities.
My approach is to practice with the first moral and ethical rule in the Yoga Sutras “Ahimsa” (loving kindness, empathy) and the second rule “Satya” (truthfulness, honesty). I will be guided by the individual and respect their abilities and needs, in a respectful and kind manner.
I have further information available on my website under the “YOGA” section and welcome any questions or feedback as I commence this new venture.
