First thing’s first, how did you come to start practising yoga?

I had an injury when I was 20, and I broke my back whilst in Australia. I wasn’t able to walk, and I was in the hospital for about six weeks. Then I had a brace for another six weeks. I was told that practising yoga would help my rehabilitation, but I was used to being so active and saw yoga as slower and less exciting… However, when I got home, I gave it a real chance, seeing my body start to change. I fell in love with the feeling of the practice, both mentally and physically. It was the perfect road to recovery, and I never looked back.

What does your yoga practice mean to you? How does it make you feel?

It’s time for me. I feel free on my mat and where I can feel grateful for having a fit and healthy body that can carry its own weight, moving me through my practice. It’s like coming home.

Has your relationship with your body changed over the years? And if so, how?

Yes, especially since having children. That’s made me much more respectful of my body’s needs, rather than continually pushing myself. Instead, I back off and listen to what my body needs depending on the day or the specific moment. I also focus on any stressors I might be reacting to, and I’m much more intuitive.

When did you first discover meditation? What has that brought to your life?

Around ten years ago, I wasn’t into meditation and didn’t know much about it. I was much more drawn to the physical benefits of yoga. A friend of mine later introduced me to ​​Vipassanā meditation (or Vipaśyanā) and we went along to a ten-day silent retreat, which completely changed my outlook. It was total immersion, and I’ve tried to maintain practice ever since. What I love most about the winter is my meditation practice improves because I retreat indoors by the fire or light a candle, and I really look forward to that time. I look forward to going inward. I don’t always practice for hours; sometimes, it’s just 15-20 minutes at the end of each day, but it’s still there.

What advice would you give to those just starting out on their yoga journey and experimenting with yoga?

Try as many different types of yoga as possible. Sometimes it’s not just the style because the teacher needs to be a good fit too. Remember that just because one class didn’t work for you doesn’t mean none of them will. It might take time to find what works for you personally.

Any advice to those who want to start experimenting with yoga at home, who can’t get to classes?

Again it’s about trial and error. The beauty of practising at home is it’s simple and saves time, so you might find it easier to make a regular habit in this way. We’re very lucky in this day and age that classes are so accessible.

How has your yoga practise or exercise regime changed since having children? 

I don’t feel the need to do it every day now. If I don’t find the time, I just accept it. I don’t punish myself. It doesn’t feel as compulsive as it may have done in the past, and I’m kinder to myself. Sometimes my practice is shorter, but that’s fine too. If I only manage 10 minutes, I still celebrate and enjoy it.

I think that’s key. Many people are into so many types of exercise and fitness, as well as other hobbies, they often think they don’t have time to add yoga to their schedule, right? But if you can just do ten minutes, it’s a great start, and it’s still a practice you’ve made an effort to do. 

Exactly. That’s how my perspective has shifted over the years, and if you accept the fact you might only have 10-20 minutes on some days, you can simply enjoy it rather than wishing you’d done more.