I started practicing yoga in 2002 to get stronger for running, tramping, climbing and swimming. By understanding my body, yoga helped me recover from and avoid injuries. Over time, I also found relief from chronic pain and help managing my stress, particularly as I discovered breathing practices, restorative yoga and meditation. I am still learning and understanding the philosophies of yoga and the much wider benefits of yoga.
I taught yoga classes in Wellington, New Zealand from 2013 to 2021. I stopped teaching yoga in 2021. I’ve shared more about my decision to stop teaching yoga.
These days, I’m focused on self-practice and exploring and deepening my understanding of the roots of yoga. I’m no longer regularly posting on this blog, but I am updating posts and occasionally posting new reflections, as I progress on my journey.
My style as a yoga teacher
I taught a hatha style of yoga with a vinyasa flow to keep things moving. My classes focused on strength and a healthy range of motion without advanced poses or a lot of sweating. You could expect a different class each week.
I took an informal approach and encouraged students to have fun and laugh along the way. My goal was for people to feel better in the way that is right for their body.
My training to be a yoga teacher
I completed my first yoga teacher training with Byron Yoga Centre in Australia in 2012-2013. A year later, I returned to the Byron Yoga Centre to complete additional training. I continued to study and refine my skills and knowledge.
I was a Registered Level 3 Yoga Teacher with Yoga New Zealand and a Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance (E-RYT® 200, RYT® 500). My continuing education included the Yoga Synergy Anatomy and Physiology and Advanced Fundamentals, Tiaki Pilates Foundation Course, as well as workshops and courses from Tom Myers, Timothy McCall, Tiffany Cruikshank, Leslie Kaminoff, Doug Keller and more. My other professional training includes a Bachelor’s in Psychology, Masters in Social Work and Masters in Public Health.