In 2015, my life took a dramatic turn when I was diagnosed with a lump in my throat. Following its removal, I continued to feel exhausted and experienced dry throat symptoms. Further testing revealed six nodules on my thyroid gland, necessitating another surgery. The road to recovery was long and arduous, involving months of rehabilitation, strict dietary changes, hormone replacement therapy, and persistent fatigue. My doctor stressed the importance of maintaining mobility, flexibility, and strong bones due to my thyroid condition. This marked a significant turning point for me, as I had to adopt a new lifestyle that included regular exercise and a healthy diet. Initially, exercising was a struggle, but I eventually discovered a passion for weightlifting. However, after a year, I began to experience muscle stiffness and joint pain, which led me to explore yoga.
I still recall my first yoga class in 2018. I was drenched in sweat, my legs trembled, and my body
felt stretched and sore. It was an overwhelming experience, yet it felt good. I was confused,
tired, and challenged, but I was determined to continue. As I practiced more, I found myself
seeking additional classes and practicing alone in the studio. I was hooked!
When the pandemic hit in 2019, I was forced to adapt to self-practice. Initially, I found it daunting, but I soon grew to love it. It’s freeing and grounding. During the first few months of the pandemic, I pushed myself to master challenging poses, but I also encountered injuries. That’s when I grasped the importance of “mindful movement,” “listening to my body,” and “progress over perfection.”
My yoga journey has been transformative. I’ve learned to practice with openness and acceptance. Stepping onto my mat transports me to a different world, quieting my surroundings and amplifying my inner self, breath, and heart.
As I now have the privilege of teaching, I openly share my experiences, setbacks, injuries, successes, and lessons learned with my students. I teach from the heart, drawing from my own journey, rather than relying solely on textbooks. My approach is to connect with my students on a deeper level, using language that resonates with them and guidance that is supportive and nurturing.
I’m eager to share my insights and embark on this journey together, growing and learning as a community united by our passion for the practice
