I began my Yoga journey in 2015 at the suggestion of a coworker. I needed an outlet to calm my mind and body. Thanks to my Director, I began Meditation around the same time through a City wellness program. I was recognized as one of the top 10 studio attendees at Queen Street Yoga each year that I went there. Yoga was exactly what I needed.
I retired, sold my ON home and moved to BC in 2017. I left my municipal government job and took yoga teacher training because I finally had the time. The very first studio I found in Kelowna was Ekahi. I took their intensive YTT through North American School of Yoga Science. When I graduated, I subbed often at Ekahi and also opened my own business called Ease & Flow Yoga made up initially of many residents from the condo complex where I lived and a couple friends. I also taught at Bliss Yoga Lounge for just over 3 years until they closed at the end of February 2024. I stopped teaching in my own rental space after covid but continue to offer private personal or group classes.
I have attended and/or taught at numerous yoga retreats here and abroad and highly recommend it if you are a yogi who loves to travel like me!
I currently teach 3 gentle Hatha yoga classes at Kelowna Yoga House. We focus on basic postures that you can use as a foundation in any yoga practice. There is some movement in the class, but it is not a vinyasa flow class. I personally do not do hot yoga nor many inversions for my own health reasons, so I understand the phrase “listen to your body”.
I love empowering people to be the best that they can be and accepting of their body no matter where they are at. It is so rewarding when a new to yoga student practices for the very first time and enjoys it. The toughest step is the first one to get them to believe in themselves and walk through the door, especially for seniors. My oldest student began at 85 years old and absolutely loved it. She will never be forgotten. All of my classes can be modified in numerous ways. I had one private student in a wheelchair. She was determined and an amazing woman who benefitted not only from the movement but also the focus and breathwork. The beauty of Yoga is that it is not a team sport. I will guide you through a practice, but students are always open to modify postures to whatever their body needs. We are all built differently.
Yoga has given me breathwork and meditation tools which I often used to get to sleep when I was super busy at work or my mind simply wouldn’t shut off. No matter what your reason is for coming to a yoga class, I strongly encourage all people to give it a try. I do believe that Yoga truly is for every body. Be patient and figure out exactly what is perfect for you with the assistance of your teacher.
I also do garden maintenance which I love. I look forward to each spring having my hands back in the dirt. I walk daily in the downtown core and do a fitness program written by my personal trainer daughter. I love coffee shops, cooking and eating out. I have a “Tower Garden” which is my pride and joy growing most of my produce for my plant based diet.
I love to answer your questions, so please do contact me. I look forward to seeing you at the studio.