Yoga Pathways

‘Spotlight On’ is all about introducing you to the diverse and inspiring individuals who make up our yoga family. Meet Louise

Name: Louise Gallagher

Occupation: I work at Greene King with HMOs

Age: 49

How do you know Jordanna?

I met her when she did some yoga classes in the abbey gardens to celebrate the Abbey’s 1000 years milestone

Which of her classes do you go to and how long have you been going to her classes?

I attend the morning zoom classes and the occasional event class. I have been going since start of 2023 and have been part of the morning membership community since September 2023 .

Tell us a bit about yourself:

I started yoga years ago with Wii Fit. I wanted to do an enjoyable, effective, calmer exercise- boot camp is, for me, a form of punishment.

How has yoga positively impacted your life?

Mental clarity and focus, physical stamina.

Favourite yoga pose or sequence? Why?

Reclined pigeon – opens up your hips and you can do it in bed.

Least favourite yoga pose? Why?

Warrior 3 and dancer, normally end up falling over in a kind of slapstick comedy way, arms flapping etc.

Off the Mat: Aside from yoga, what are your other interests or hobbies?

Reading, sewing, dancing badly, history. During the pandemic I did a free course in forensic archaeology and started quilting, I know how to make padded walls and hide the bodies…

How do you balance your yoga practice with other aspects of your life?

For me it’s the other way round doing yoga helps me balance the rest of my life. Gives me calm, focus and stamina. Also helps me get out of bed and start my day.

Mind-Body Connection: How does yoga influence your mental and emotional well-being?

I feel more centred, I find it helps with stressful days. It’s a great way to start the day.

Have you noticed any changes in your mindset since starting yoga?

Definitely, the breath exercises have been used many times to give me the head spaces to work out a plan b.

How did you become part of this yoga community?

After my op, I not only missed the yoga, but the feeling of being part of the class. You don’t have to know everyone to be part of this community, sharing challenges daily does this.

Are there any community events or activities that you particularly enjoy?

Outside practices really float my boat – also the Wednesday dance class, I had a wonderful time.

Do you have any other wellness practices that complement your yoga routine?

I go to the gym regularly, dance like a loon and laugh a lot.

How do you maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle?

-I have a minimum amount of exercise that I try to do per week, try and eat well and don’t take things too seriously.

Personal Growth: Can you share a specific instance where yoga played a significant role in your personal growth?

Last year I had a hysterectomy and yoga played a massive role in my physical and mental recovery, it was so important to me and still is.

Do you have any favourite yoga-related quotes or mantras that inspire you?

“Find the stillness in the movement” -this also really works in swimming too.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their yoga journey?

Don’t worry be happy- enjoy it and don’t stress about falling over and getting it wrong. Keep going, the results will surprise you.

How do you stay motivated to continue your yoga practice?

I am REALLY stubborn, I took me years to get the tree pose to feel right, but I did it. If I am finding something difficult I think it doesn’t last that long.

Do you have any specific goals or aspirations related to your yoga practice?

A realistic optimist seeks improvement not perfection” – David Mitchell sums up my hopes perfectly.

How do you see your yoga journey evolving in the future?

More laughter, possibly more balance and many more silly names for yoga moves (the Beyonce turkey)

‘What have you gained from creating a morning routine of yoga and meditation?

Feel great and stretched, less snap, crackle and pop when I stand up

Getting my butt out of bed – I normally end up completing jobs after the class which gives me more time in the evenings

Join us in celebrating Louise Gallagher and let her journey inspire you to find joy, balance, and community in your own yoga practice. Share your thoughts and connect with us in the comments or on social media. Let’s make our mornings—and our lives—better together!