If you have been following me on social media you know that this year has been quite an intense one (racism, COVID, elections, and everything and anything in between). I have decided to table these very important topics because I wanted to introduce or reintroduce myself to all of you! Hi, I am Liza. I am an ERYT 200 ( that just means “expert registered yoga teacher- with the Yoga Alliance, it is not fancy). I believe that yoga is for all bodies. The word “yoga” is derived from the word “yuj” meaning to “join” or to “yoke”. I interpret this as to “unite”. Everything about yoga is uniting- from practicing in space together, caring for others, connecting humanity, and just breathing.
My yoga experience started almost 8.5 years ago when I was recovering from back surgery. I had a microdiscectomy ( the surgery removed a herniated disc). I was 24 years old at the time and physical therapy was just not working for me. My mom had suggested I give yoga a try. My mom has never done yoga in her life! I thought this option was kind of silly, but I thought I would give it a try. My mom was kind enough to give myself and my sister in law a package to a nearby yoga studio. I would like to say the rest is history… but it was not! I met my future bright light and beloved guru and teacher Bridget (she owns the Amma Yanni Center and School- she is amazing and you should check her out). She was so patient with me. I was recovering from major surgery and she got to know me, and knew she could push me lovingly. I sat on my mat and watched other yogis. I learned the language and posture. I sat on my mat in awe of others. I did not breathe at all! Let me tell you, it is so hard to not breathe and practice yoga.
When I felt ready in 2015 I started my yoga teacher training. It was helpful that I had a strong practice, a strong sense of community, and an attitude of a beginner. It was such a long and hard journey. It was not just physical ,it was mental, emotional, and overall exhausting. I was working full time. I was trying to get a business off the ground. Yoga teacher training was rewarding, and I was able to make a lifelong friend.
I tell you all of this information because I truly believe that yoga brings unlike people together. I am not only a teacher, but a deep practitioner. I have overcome eye rolls in studios I walk into, and the instructor asks, “ have you ever done yoga?” It does not look like you have”. This ever evolving yoga practice and my teachings is something I am able to share, and it brings me such joy. I have a yoga body and so do you!
Jordann and Liza on site at a yoga photo shoot. My forever friend I met in yoga teacher training.
