Yoga Pathways

Name:

Amanda Martin

Age:

58

Occupation:

Present and possibly last incarnation – Social Care Companion

How do you know Jordanna?

We met at a toddler group – she heard me shouting at my children before seeing me! Despite that, she asked me to go to a fitness weekender with her and after sharing a freezing chalet in Hemsby we became firm friends.

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

I was an inaugural member of her first community yoga class, am an every morning yoga addict and also attend the Thursday group practice at the UMH (as well as many of the other yoga events she holds). Gosh, that is a lot of yoga!

Introduction:

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into yoga?

I used to like my movement, especially fitness, to be fast and frantic and heavy on the cardio. I love running, cycling and dancing but after a few life challenges and some poor mental health, I realised that I have a tendency to busy myself rather than take time to be in the moment and accept the here and now. I was aware of the benefits of yoga but it was almost as if I was putting off embracing them, considering them to be for people who had no other choices. How wrong I was. I went to see my Fitness Friend, Karen, one day in lockdown and she happened to be practising in her work shed. She told me about how much she was enjoying online Yoga and like many things I thought that if Karen is doing it, maybe I should give it a go.

Yoga Journey:

What motivated you to start practicing yoga?

I have always enjoyed Jordanna’s teaching style and the community that she fosters around her classes. I was so pleased when she set up her offer as it was during a time of personal challenges when I needed the wider benefits of yoga the most

How has yoga positively impacted your life? It sounds corny but it really has changed my whole outlook on life, my wellbeing, my exercise routine, how I am with my family, my friends and my clients.

Favourite Yoga Pose:

Do you have a favourite yoga pose or sequence? Why?

I can only hold it for a few seconds but I love Crow. I love the flow which Jordanna teaches to set up the pose and the concentration needed to get all the elements just right. Once you’re there, you’re there and you are in that moment of pure joy, celebrating your bravery. I even like the uncertainty of how it will end (usually in a controlled heap for me).

Least favourite yoga pose? Why?

A yogi squat did not come naturally to me and I had to really work on it as my feet would just not stay flat. It remains uncomfortable but I stick it out as my work in progress and continue to blame my running for my short muscles!

Off the Mat:

Aside from yoga, what are your other interests or hobbies?

I still manage to mix it up a bit with a little running, cycling (including Rickshaw riding), wild water swimming (no reeds though), walking, cooking and baking and entertaining and plenty of socialising with all my friendship groups. If you ask me if I would like to join you (and it doesn’t involve a spa or day time drinking), I will probably say ‘yes’.

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

Yoga has become such an important part of my life. It gets me out of bed in the mornings and is the thread that weaves through my other wellbeing activities and social life.

Mind-Body Connection:

How does yoga influence your mental and emotional well-being?

The breathing was a revelation once I got it. The breathing techniques I am now armed with have helped me through so many challenging situations and really alleviated my stress levels. There is no doubt that I have come through a recent black cloud of poor mental health much more quickly as a result of my regular morning practice and the brilliant friends I have who share the yoga community.

Have you noticed any changes in your mindset since starting yoga? Focussing on my breathing and being in the here and now has been a complete game changer for me.

Community Involvement:

How did you become a part of this yoga community?

Wherever Jordanna is, you won’t find me far away

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

I love opportunities to practice outside and enjoyed the Abbey Gardens, West Stow and Nowton Park yoga events. Bedtime yoga is a favourite of mine. The first Summer Solstice event in Barrow holds a special place in my heart too.

Wellness Practices:

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

I’m not sure if cooking counts but an empty kitchen, a new recipe and a playlist to wiggle my hips and sing along to makes me feel carefree and 17 again.

How do you maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle?

I always have breakfast and believe without it your body and mind will struggle to be the best it can be. I do watch what I eat (most of the time) and love my veg, I am in bed by 10.30pm during the week and take regular exercise. I also avoid the chair and a 3rd glass of alcohol as much as I can.

Personal Growth:

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

As mentioned before, I think it has to be during my last spell of poor mental health. My mat was just as important as my tablets, my work and the sunshine.

Favourite Quotes or Mantras:

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

I can really relate to the Serenity Prayer and share it with others any time I can. On a lighter note, who wouldn’t like to hear Jordanna when just after 7am, she says ‘Good morning (late comer), we’re in Childs Pose’.

Advice for Others:

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

As we have discovered through others sharing their experiences through their Spotlight articles, Yoga has only brought positive elements to their lives. Like most things you know might be good for you because the research says so, go in with an open mind, you really have nothing to lose and so much to gain. It might even change your life.

How do you stay motivated to continue your yoga practice?

I want to be strong and happy in my 60s and ready to meet a whole lot of new challenges I know are coming my way. I’ve also found the tribe that I want to be around for this time of my life.

Community Connection:

How do you connect with others in the yoga community?

I’m not much of a social media person but I am a talker and a sharer and love joining others at all the spin off events which happen as part of our yoga community.

Are there any yoga-related events or workshops that you recommend to fellow practitioners?

There really is so much choice and something for everyone but I would thoroughly recommend morning yoga – I always leave feeling happy and ready to face the day and if I’m honest, just a tiny bit smug!

Future Goals:

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

I want to continue to master the poses and my breathing and improve the gracefulness of my flow. I’m also going to work on holding a half decent Crow before I’m 60.

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

I’m keen to practice yoga in different environments and will be joining a few of my yoga friends in Barcelona in a few weeks’ time for a semi-silent yoga retreat. I’m so excited (and a little bit apprehensive but nothing ventured etc!).