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
Yoga Star: Christine aka @Stretchopia
Where are you currently based?
ABQ, New Mexico.
Where are you originally from?
Stretchtopia started in San Diego.
When did you start practicing yoga and why?
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.
- Read 16 more reasons to do yoga
What got you hooked?
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.
What is your favourite asana and why?
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.
Which asana have you found the most challenging within your practice (and why)?
Any balancing poses are challenging for me, especially on one foot.
I’ve always had weak ankles, but practice has definitely improved that.
How has yoga impacted your life?
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.
- Read 14 more answers to “how yoga has changed my life” by other yoga enthusiasts.
Which type of yoga do you teach/ specialize in?
Stretchtopia specializes in Corporate Yoga.
We go into workplaces and provide on-site classes to employees.
What do you enjoy about this particular style of yoga?
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.
What’s your mission as a yoga instructor/ enthusiast?
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.
If you could give only one piece of advice to others who are looking to start yoga what would it be?
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.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone who is just starting out as a teacher what would it be?
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.
What has been one of your biggest struggles during your yoga journey?
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.
What are you currently focusing on the most in your yoga journey right now?
Right now I’m working on arm balances. I love the challenge and the focus it helps me cultivate.
What is one of your favorite mantras or affirmations that you don’t mind sharing?
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.
If you could have a secret power, what would in be?
Teleportation, for sure.
There are so many places I want to be at once!
Do you have any additional secret talents?
I’m also a musician, and I play a bunch of instruments – guitar, saxophone, bass, piano, and I sing a bit.
What is your favorite outfit to practice yoga in and why?
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.
Connect with Christine online:
“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:
- Website: www.stretchtopia.com
Plus, don’t forget to check out and follow her gorgeous feed;
- Instagram: @stretchtopia
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Why not spend your next vacation experiencing a yoga retreat?
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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!
Connect with Vibrant Yogini
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:
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Wishing you a life full of opportunities in abundance,
Namaste!
P.S. Leave your feedback for the wonderful Christine in the comments below!
