Teacher Feature: MANDY

What's your name?

• Mandy Vanderslot

What brought you to yoga? What keeps you coming back to yoga?

• For someone with a busy mind, I first saw yoga as a way to focus and attain some inner equilibrium. My practice allowed me to withdraw all my senses and connect with my breath. This gave my mind permission to let go of wandering thoughts, and to focus solely on the connection of breath with physical movement.
  
• I found the primary series encouraged this to happen for me. Following the same postures I found it easier to connect with my breath, this along with the physicality of class – you’re using your whole body – lead towards some amazing benefits.
  
• Having an active lifestyle and playing a variety of sports, I also saw my practice lead to improved flexibility, strength and balance. It enhanced my joint and muscle pliancy, which translated to greater range of motion in activities such as squash. The various asanas also built strength in supportive muscles that I under utilized in these sports.

What pose(s) are you currently working with (favourite, challenged by etc.)?

• One of my favourite poses is Trikonasana (Triangle Pose). It provides a deep stretch for so many areas of the body - hamstrings, groin, and hips as well as opening the chest and shoulders.

Why Liberty Life Yoga?

• LLY has a strong community presence which was a draw for me. They provide everyone in the community the opportunity to take part in the practice of yoga. Classes cater to students of all skill level and being mobile offers accessibility to students that may not be able to attend traditional studios.

​​Words of Wisdom for someone thinking of trying (Liberty Life) Yoga?

• The practice of yoga has tremendous health benefits. Practicing the postures, breathing exercises and meditation makes you healthier in body, mind and spirit. LLY classes provide all of this right at your doorstep so why not jump in!