My Journey to Yoga: Following a Calling That Illuminated My Path

It’s hard to believe that nearly two decades have passed since I first stepped onto a yoga mat. Back in 2006, the yoga landscape looked vastly different. Resources were scarce, online classes were a distant dream, and the vibrant community we know today was still in its nascent stages. Yet, something profound drew me in, a gentle but persistent calling that I couldn't ignore.

My initial encounters with yoga were purely physical. I moved through sequences intuitively, drawn to the way my body felt – the newfound strength, the blossoming flexibility, the quiet hum of energy afterwards. Unbeknownst to me at the time, the flowing movements I was exploring would later become widely known as "flow" yoga. It wasn't a conscious choice of style; it was simply how my body wanted to move, a dance between breath and posture.

What's fascinating looking back is that even before I delved into the rich tapestry of yoga philosophy, I felt an undeniable pull to understand something deeper. It was as if my soul recognized the profound wisdom held within this ancient practice, a knowing that extended beyond the physical asanas. I yearned to grasp the essence of it all, the underlying principles that gave the movements their power.

Looking back, it's clear: I didn't find yoga; yoga found me. It was a calling, a gentle whisper that grew into an undeniable force guiding my steps. I simply followed, trusting the intuitive pull towards something I didn't fully understand but deeply resonated with.

That initial spark ignited a journey of continuous learning and exploration. My thirst for knowledge led me far beyond the yoga mat. I expanded my understanding of movement and the human body through the study of Pilates, appreciating its focus on core strength and precise alignment. The subtle yet powerful energy work of Qi Gong also beckoned, offering another lens through which to cultivate vitality and inner harmony. Each of these modalities has enriched my understanding of movement, breath, and the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.

This journey of personal transformation has naturally blossomed into a desire to share the gifts I've received. Hosting retreats has become a deeply fulfilling way to connect with others, to witness their own journeys of self-discovery, and to create spaces for profound growth and healing.

This passion for connection and collective well-being has also led to the creation of The Lighthouse Collective (lighthousecollective.us). This project is a partnership with other incredible lightworkers who share a similar mission of guiding and supporting others on their paths. Through this collective, we aim to create a beacon of light, offering resources, community, and transformative experiences.

My journey to yoga has been one of listening to an inner calling, of trusting the unknown, and of continuously seeking deeper understanding. It’s a journey that continues to unfold, inspiring not only my personal practice but also the intention and passion I bring to my teaching.

My greatest joy as a teacher is to witness the transformative power of yoga and these related practices in the lives of my students. To see them connect with their inner strength, find moments of stillness amidst the chaos, and tap into their own innate wisdom – that is what truly inspires me.

If you're reading this, perhaps you too have felt that gentle nudge, that inner calling towards something more. I encourage you to listen. Just as I did many years ago, you might find yourself on a journey that illuminates your path in ways you never imagined. And perhaps, our paths will even cross on the mat or at a future retreat. I would be honored to share the journey with you.