Student Spotlight
Laurel Sylvester
What initially drew you to yoga and how has your practice evolved since then?
I was initially drawn to yoga because my daughter received her yoga instructor's certification. And I was curious and wanted to see what it was all about. She began holding classes at the massage office she worked at and so I went there. They didn't last very long so I needed to find someplace else to practice and I went to the Vandalia Rec for chair yoga. And then Covid happened. I didn't do much then for a couple years and then got back to chair yoga. Then Amber opened Sukha.
I began with chair yoga and then tried other classes. I now go to yin and chair on a regular basis.
How has yoga impacted your life on and off the mat?
Yoga has impacted my life by making me stronger and the community of other practitioners is very nice. It's also helped me through some rather difficult times that have occurred in the past year.
Are there any specific yoga poses or practices that have been particularly transformative for you?
As far as specific poses, I enjoy deer pose, legs up the wall and cat /cow. I also love Amber's gentle with sound class. I don't know if anything has been really transformative but the fact that I can continue to move is a blessing since I am 78. I'm slow, not terribly graceful and it takes me awhile to get from one pose to another. But I'm still a work in progress.
Can you share a memorable "aha" moment or breakthrough experience you have had through yoga?
As far as specific poses, I enjoy deer pose, legs up the wall and cat /cow. I also love Amber's gentle with sound class.
What advice would you give someone who is new to yoga or considering starting a practice?
Anyone who's thinking about beginning a yoga practice? I would encourage them to give it a try. Understand that it's not about so much how "bendy" you can be, but the whole mind, body and spirit. You will enjoy the peacefulness and the friendships you will make.