Audra Worsham

BEFORE YOGA:

Before yoga, I was in the gym on a weekly basis working out. My goal was to build strength and stay in shape. Like most workout routines, you hit a plateau and think, ok… Where or what do I do next? I would change up the routine and after a few months I found myself starting to get bored and change the routine again. That is when I realized I needed something totally different. I noticed one day on my way to work a yoga studio had just opened up, I passed it every day and always wondered what yoga would be like. My husband encouraged me to stop in and check it out. Before I knew it, I was signed up taking my first yoga class and have loved it ever since then.

WHAT I LEARNED:

Did I have preconceived ideas about yoga? Yes, I did, I always thought yoga was for those that was already fit, skinny and extremely flexible. Yoga was nothing like what I had perceived it to be. There is more to it than just being able to bend and stretch. Once I started attending classes on a regular basis, I started to notice a change in my body. I noticed the flexibility I “thought” I had start to grow in subtle ways over time. 

I’ve learned to be patient with myself and be in tune with my body. The practice is more than conquering a difficult pose, it is a journey taking your body through the poses. It’s learning how the body moves and why it moves the way it does. Incorporating your intentions and breath deepens that journey.  I learn something new almost every time I practice. My practice is always evolving, it’s never the same. I have practiced Ashtanga for over 5 years now and it continues to captivate me. Learning how the body flows in and out of each pose still puzzles and amazes me at the same time.

WHY I TEACH:

I teach Hatha Yoga for all levels, beginners, intermediate and for those that have years of experience. Modifications and props are utilized as needed so all poses are accessible for everyone. Hatha allows one to focus on the physical techniques at a slow pace focusing on alignment with the breath.

I want people to know and understand yoga isn’t just for those that are already fit. Anyone at any stage of their life with or without physical limitations can do yoga. Yoga can be tailored to what a specific body need at any given time. I like how yoga makes me feel, if that can be passed along to some else to help them feel better in their own bodies then I think that’s great. If all you want that day is to relieve some tension that is your focus, just you, your breath, the mat and the practice. 

Life presents us with all sorts of challenges, to be able watch a student gain confidence and grow in their practice is rewarding. I love learning new things, if I can bring something new to the class that will help students understand and progress in their practice, I think that is wonderful. The Kai Yoga Community is a great group of people. Everyone I have come in contact with along my yoga journey has taught me something from their perspective and experience molding me into the instructor I have become.