I stumbled across my first important experience of yoga in 2004 when I found Agama Yoga in Thailand at the end of a round-the-world trip. I was looking for a chilled-out place to relax and perhaps learn something new before returning to London, so the timing was perfect.
I completed a month intensive course with Agama Yoga in 2004, and returned to London with firm intentions of continuing my practice. I maintained my practice on and off for the next few years, but found that I missed the calm state of mind and sense of balance and connection I had when I had a regular yoga practice.
I noticed that when I nurtured balance, flexibility and strength in my body, it was more possible to sustain these qualities in my mind and emotions.
So, a few years ago I committed myself to a regular practice, building on my experience from Agama Yoga, drawing inspiration from different schools of yoga including Hatha, Ashtanga Vinyasa, Bikram and a variety of the more Western styles of yoga which are on offer these days.
In 2013 I started my teachers' training with Yoga London, in the Vinyasa Flow style, which I completed in July 2014. This style of yoga is based on the more traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa style.
In 2014 I also trained with the Minded Institute to gain an insight in to the neuro-physiology of anxiety and how to use yogic techniques to treat anxiety from a mind-body perspective. I use some of these techniques throughout my classes to create a deeper relaxation response.
Since then I have done classes and courses with David and Doug Swenson, Ana Forrest, Stewart Gilchrist, Christopher Wallis (Hareesh) and Carlos Pomeda.
I have a busy career in marketing communications based in the City of London, so I can identify with those who struggle to find time for exercise or relaxation. Yoga is the perfect tool to combine these, and I often find that taking time out for yoga increases my effectiveness in other areas.I am insured and registered with the Yoga Alliance (RYT 200). I regularly write about yoga, so check my blog to learn more, and you can find my author page on Zen Monkey here.
I hope you'll join me to explore what yoga could offer you!