YOGA STARS is part of a feature campaign hosted by Vibrant Yogini where an experienced yoga teacher or enthusiast was interviewed about their beautiful journey learning yoga, as well as their newfound views as a yoga practitioner.
It was created to try and remove the gap between confident and expert yogi’s, and those who have just started to practice yoga or who are curious to learn more about it.
The truth is, and especially as an experienced yoga teacher myself, we never want you to feel intimidated or discouraged to start learning yoga.
Therefore, it is important to remember that each and every yoga teacher started fresh from the beginning as a newbie once upon a time.
So take a read of the interviews to learn how they share experience as a teacher and enthusiast! The main aim of this campaign is to motivate you to continue your journey no matter where you are on it.
Designed to inspire your yoga practice and encourage you to follow your dreams.
This week’s Yoga Stars feature is hosted by Christine! Check out her beautiful and vibrant instagram feed: @stretchtopia
“I’m on a mission to make yoga more inclusive and accessible, and I’m starting with the workplace.” ~ Christine
ABQ, New Mexico.
Stretchtopia started in San Diego.
I started practicing yoga when I was in law school, which was one of the most stressful times of my life.
I needed something to recharge and rebalance, and yoga was exactly what I needed.
It helped me stay sane.
In addition to the stress reduction aspects, it was realizing that exercising could actually feel good and I could connect with my body.
Instead of seeing exercise as something to be endured and put up with, I started to actually look forward to the practice.
I’d have to say downward dog.
There’s a reason it’s the foundation of so many practices.
I love how I can move in the pose, stretching different parts of my body, and easily transition to another asana.
Any balancing poses are challenging for me, especially on one foot.
I’ve always had weak ankles, but practice has definitely improved that.
It is how I ground myself and reconnect with my body.
It also allows me to keep my joints and ligaments in good working order, so I can do lots of other things in life I enjoy, like hiking, running, and cycling.
Stretchtopia specializes in Corporate Yoga.
We go into workplaces and provide on-site classes to employees.
I love bringing yoga to the workplace.
It is so appreciated and so needed in this busy world where we sit at computers all day long and are disconnected from our bodies.
We’re able to reach people who may never come to the studio.
I want to reach people who may never come to a studio.
I believe that yoga is for everyone, not just the slender women you typically see on social media and in yoga marketing.
Be patient with yourself and enjoy the practice.
This isn’t about comparing yourself to anyone else.
Make your time on your mat your own and learn how to reconnect with your body.
As a yoga instructor, you are a business of one.
If you want to help more people, you have to also think about things like marketing, bookkeeping, client management, limiting liability, and other business considerations.
It may seem overwhelming, but there are plenty of trainings and business coaches who can help you get your business on track.
I have struggled with comparing myself to other people, and Instagram and Facebook don’t help with this struggle.
They say that “comparison is the thief of joy,” and I remind myself of this frequently.
Sometimes I have to take a break from social media and refocus my energy to keep going.
Right now I’m working on arm balances. I love the challenge and the focus it helps me cultivate.
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.
Teleportation, for sure.
There are so many places I want to be at once!
I’m also a musician, and I play a bunch of instruments – guitar, saxophone, bass, piano, and I sing a bit.
Honestly, I like practicing in plain leggings and a tank top. It’s comfortable and stays in place while I move. That’s all I really care about.
“I started practicing yoga in law school, and it undeniably allowed me to stay sane and healthy during one of the most stressful times of my life.
I’ve seen how yoga at the office is transformational and reaches students who may never enter a studio.
I’m excited to bring yoga to the workplace, by bridging the gap between instructors and the corporate environment, and also by empowering teachers to start their own workplace yoga practice.” – Christine
To get in touch with Christine and find out more about the range of services that she provides online please visit:
Plus, don’t forget to check out and follow her gorgeous feed;
Why not spend your next vacation experiencing a yoga retreat?
There are so many to choose from!
Whether you prefer mixing it with a bit of surfing in Costa Rica, or your would like to visit the worlds heart of yoga in Rishikish, India.
Perhaps you are in need of a refreshing detox retreat, or simply a relaxing and luxurious stay in paradise which offers you spa treatments, sightseeing tours and daily yoga classes.
You are sure to find one that suits your needs perfectly!
Would you like to take part in the weekly Yoga Stars feature at Vibrant Yogini? Whether you are a yoga teacher or a passionate enthusiast, we would love to hear from you! Please send an email to the following address:
Wishing you a life full of opportunities in abundance,
Namaste!
P.S. Leave your feedback for the wonderful Christine in the comments below!
© 2022 Vibrant Yogini
