08/06/2025
August Student Spotlight
This month, we're celebrating someone who lights up the room the moment she steps on the mat. Ashley's vibrant spirit, friendly smile, and uplifting energy make every class a little brighter. Whether she's flowing through poses or sharing a kind word with a fellow student, her presence reminds us of the joy in showing upāfor ourselves and each other. Read about her journey below!
1. What initially drew you to yoga, and how has your practice evolved since then?
I first tried yoga just to stretch and de-stressābut I stayed for peace, the people, and honestly, the occasional giggle when I fell out of a pose. Over time, itās become a way to connectānot just with myself, but with a community that lifts each other up, one wobbly warrior pose at a time.
2. How has yoga impacted your life, both on and off the mat?
Yoga has taught me to breathe through the hard stuffāwhether itās a tough pose or a tough day. Itās made me more patient, mindful, and way less reactive (most of the time). Off the mat, Iām more groundedā¦ even when life throws me curveballs. Itās helped me laugh at myself and find peace in the chaos.
3. Are there any specific yoga poses or practices that have been particularly transformative for you?
Supine twist has been especially healing for me. It helps me release tension in my spine and low back, but it also feels like wringing out emotional stress. Itās a gentle reminder to let goāphysically and mentally.
4. How do you incorporate mindfulness and yoga principles into your daily routine?
I bring yoga into my day through breath, intention, and movementāwhether Iām lighting a candle, stretching between design projects, or just pausing to check in with myself. Itās not about being perfect, just present
5. Can you share a memorable "aha" moment or breakthrough experience you have had through yoga?
One of my biggest āahaā moments came during a slow, quiet practice when I realized how often I push myself, even in stillness. That moment taught me that rest is not laziness, itās necessary. Yoga helped me understand that listening to my body is just as powerful as challenging it.
6. What advice would you give someone who is new to yoga or considering starting a practice?
Yoga is truly for everybody and every soul. You donāt need to be flexible, strong, or experiencedājust open to showing up. Itās not about the perfect pose, but about learning to breathe, listen to yourself, and reconnect with your spirit. Over time, the practice meets you where you are and gently carries you where you need to go.
7. Are there any specific teachers, resources, or books that have influenced your yoga journey?
Yesāeach of my teachers has played a special role in my journey. Linda taught me to be gentle with myself, Megan helped me learn to truly love myself, and Amber encouraged me to challenge myself and grow. I also felt a deep sense of connection and support at the retreatāit was a reminder that healing and transformation can happen in community, too.
8. How has yoga helped you navigate challenges or difficult times in your life?
Yoga has helped me through grief, family stress, and moments of feeling lost. It taught me to breathe, feel, and healāreminding me Iām not broken, just growing. Even in stillness, Iāve found strength and a deeper connection to myself.
9. Do you have any favorite yoga-related activities or rituals that enhance your practice?
I donāt have a strict routine, but I usually light a candle after my practice. Itās my way of sealing in the energy, setting an intention, or just taking a quiet moment to reflect. It feels like a small act of gratitude for showing up for myself.
10. What initially drew you to yoga, and how has your practice evolved since then?
Iāve always liked yoga because itās not about crushing reps or keeping upāitās about slowing down and breathing. What started as a way to unwind has grown into a practice that grounds me, connects me, and reminds me itās okay to wobbleāon and off the mat.
