Spotlight On….. Jane Williams

Simple Routines, Yoga Community, yoga journey, yoga spotlight

Spotlight On….. Jane Williams

Name: Jane Williams Age: 64 Occupation: Director of Property Co. How do you know Jordanna? By signing up to the January yoga challenge at the beginning of this year. Which of her classes do you go to and how long have you been going to her classes? Since January. 5 days a week morning classes. …

Jordanna Campbell

October 23, 2024

3–5 minutes

Name: Jane Williams

Age: 64

Occupation: Director of Property Co.

How do you know Jordanna? By signing up to the January yoga challenge at the beginning of this year.

Which of her classes do you go to and how long have you been going to her classes? Since January. 5 days a week morning classes. Try to do an in person class whenever I can.

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

I consider myself to be a pretty busy person and was married for 34 years up until February when sadly my husband died. He was diagnosed in 2018 with Lewy Body Dementia with Parkinsons and so the last few years have been challenging as watching the person you love disappear is a truly horrible thing to witness. We have a wonderful 34 year old daughter, Holly, who is getting married next year so that is something lovely to look forward to. I have always ridden horses and once I stopped doing that I knew I needed something to keep me moving and flexible and so in about 2008 I started practicing yoga and did so for about 10 years at Clarice House. During lockdown I practiced with my daughter as a friend of hers was teaching online. Once lockdown was behind us and caring for my husband became more demanding I drifted away from yoga but was so happy to learn about Jordanna’s morning yoga sessions as they are a great way to start the day and the January challenge certainly had me back on the mat and hopefully I wont leave it now.

Yoga Journey:

What motivated you to start practicing yoga?

When I stopped riding horses I knew I needed something and after a cancer diagnosis in 2008 I believed that yoga would be the best type of exercise for me.

How has yoga positively impacted your life?

It takes you into another world where you feel in the moment and slows me down.

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

Probably Warrior as it feels strong and the movements around it seem to flow.

Least favourite yoga pose? Why?

The one where your legs are crossed under you and your knees are supposed to be stacked on top of one another – I just cant get my legs to do it!! ( I think she’s talking about Cow face legs /Gomukhasana) 😂

Off the Mat:

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

I play a bit of tennis and golf and love walking my two dogs Spratt & Boris. I still work part time in a family property/agricultural business, which keeps me out of mischief.

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

Most days the half hour practice at 7am is perfect as it doesn’t interfere with other aspects of my life other than giving me a good start to the day.

Mind-Body Connection:

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

I think it is important to slow down and I think yoga helps me with gratitude and positivity.

Have you noticed any changes in your mindset since starting yoga? Can’t think of any at this time.

Community Involvement:

How did you become a part of this yoga community?

Sha Starr told me about Jordanna.

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

I volunteer with the Riding for the Disabled Association once a week and have been a Hospice Neighbour for many years.

Wellness Practices:

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

Try to have reflexology and Reiki every now and then.

How do you maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle?

I don’t really think about it but enjoy looking after myself and trying to be social with friends as much as possible.

Advice for Others:

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

Stick with it as it takes time to realise the true benefits.

How do you stay motivated to continue your yoga practice? Knowing I will feel better after the session.

Community Connection:

How do you connect with others in the yoga community?

By attending in person classes or attending retreat days. Also the Whats App groups enable you to connect if you want to (but I’m not very good at What’s App groups)