Yoga Pathways

Name: Helen Wilson

Age: Close to officially being called a pensioner!!

Occupation: Retired

How do you know Jordanna?

Initially I met Jordanna at Moreton Hall Health Club although only to say hello to and have a brief chat before she took her classes. I liked what I knew of her so when I found out she was setting up on her own I was keen to be involved and joined her Thursday morning group for ‘new yogis’ – I’ve been there ever since!

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

Thursday mornings since October 2022. I have done the morning on-line yoga which I love, but a knee injury has kept me away, hopefully, only on a temporary basis!

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

I grew up in Hertfordshire, worked in London and moved up to East Anglia 35 years ago. I met my husband through work and we have a son who is married and lives in London. I love being outdoors; love the English countryside and love water of any kind, seas, rivers and lakes. I also love the seasonality of our country, so love the way Jordanna always brings the seasons into her sessions!

I suppose my first introduction to yoga was during Covid when I started to do an on-line course. I really enjoyed my daily practice but wasn’t sure I would continue when ‘normality’ returned.

Yoga Journey:

What motivated you to start practicing yoga?

How has yoga positively impacted your life?

Jordanna was my motivation! I was unwell in early 2022 and it wasn’t until later in the year that I was able to re-engage with my previous activities. I saw Jordanna at the club one day and she said she was setting up her own yoga classes and I was welcome to come along. In fact, she even changed the day she was running the class so that I could attend!

Physically, yoga has helped with my flexibility and core strength and I really notice the difference now I’m not doing the morning on-line sessions. Attending yoga classes in person was a big step for me as I always worry about not being ‘good enough’. When I made the step I knew it was the right thing to do. I love the group I’m with and seeing friendly faces every Thursday morning is such a great start to the day.

Favourite Yoga Pose:

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

Least favourite yoga pose? Why?

Favourite – I love the balance poses as they help bring focus and calmness to what can sometimes be, a hectic life

Least favourite – probably boat ‘cos I’m not very good at it!!

Off the Mat:

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

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

I love to keep myself active, particularly swimming, racket sports of any kind and walking. I am also involved with a couple of charities and volunteer at a local care farm one day a week which I have been doing for the last 10 years. And, as I’m reaching that dreaded age, I thought I’d take up something new so have just started running with a running club, and although I tend to be at the back, I really do enjoy the concept and the community environment……it’s a bit like Jordannas yoga community really!! Along with my physical activities I am also an avid reader and love baking! If I’m doing things with friends a post-activity coffee is always included.

In terms of balance, I’m not too sure I’ve got that right just yet, it’s still a work in progress!

Mind-Body Connection:

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

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

For me it’s all about calmness and positivity. I’m generally a positive person but we all struggle at times and I find doing a session of yoga relieves some of that pressure.

Community Involvement:

How did you become a part of this yoga community?

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

Having gained confidence from my Thursday and morning on-line sessions I decided to attend Jordannas first Yoga Retreat day. This really was taking me out of my comfort zone, but I really enjoyed all aspects of the day. I was in my own world during the sessions and it was lovely to meet such a great group of people, many of whom, have similar life experiences. Its fascinating talking to other people, hearing their stories and realising you’re not that different to anyone else!! I enjoyed it so much I signed up for the second retreat day, which was as equally wholesome! Sadly, I’m away for the next event at Christmas otherwise I’d be on the list!!

Wellness Practices:

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

How do you maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle?

I like to think a lot of my daily activities support wellness, compliment my yoga and contribute to a balanced lifestyle.

I’m keen on healthy eating, healthy living….excluding coffee and cake of course!

Personal Growth:

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

Really struggling with this one I’m afraid. No specific instance but I do think yoga has helped improve my overall calmness and positivity

Favourite Quotes or Mantras:

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

My favourite, and the most used word by me, is balance and I rather like the quote Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create. However, I also like the quote Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life!

Advice for Others:

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

How do you stay motivated to continue your yoga practice?

If you live near Bury, join one of Jordannas sessions. If not, join her on-line classes! Jordanna will introduce you to yoga the right way. Her ability to communicate and teach is inspiring. Its not just about the physical practice but her passion for yoga covers the understanding of how the meditation, mindfulness and physical elements all synchronise together.

Jordanna is my motivation!

Community Connection:

How do you connect with others in the yoga community?

I’m not great with on-line ‘chatting’. I prefer meeting people in person and its amazing how often yoga comes up in conversation!

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

Having experienced Jordannas yoga retreat days I would recommend you occasionally branch away from a standard yoga session and try something different, whether it be outdoors with nature, or a retreat day, or even be really brave and try a weekend away…….Jordanna I’m waiting for the invitation!!

Future Goals:

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

I’d love to gain a better understanding of the breathing process, the science behind it and how it can influence improved health.

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

More of the same. For me, I want yoga to be part of my life and help keep my whole lifestyle in balance.