I would have known even without a name whose 'Spotlight' this belongs to. This is our very own, totally fabulous, utterly unique - Kate Stittle.

Name: Kate

Age: 39 (for 4 more days!)

Occupation: Sales Executive

How do you know Jordanna? Through joining her wonderful yoga class

Which of her classes do you go to and how long have you been going to her classes? I do the Thursday 7.30pm class & started going around 18months ago.

Introduction:

I’m a Mum of 2, Eva 16 & Ethan who’s 18, I have 2 dogs, 2 cats & several fish. I’m a bit of a car nut (have a few of those too!) & love anything that involves being outside. Beach combing walks in the forest & festivals. Massively into my Rock & metal music, having been brought up going to gigs with my parents. I started doing yoga as a little treat for myself, some ‘me time’ if you like.

Yoga Journey:

What motivated you to start practicing yoga? I’ve struggled with my mental health since I was a teenager & wanted to try a different approach to healing.

I’ve felt both physically and mentally like a different person since starting yoga! I’ve met some truly wonderful people on the way too. Sometimes after a long week at work it can be a struggle to get yourself out the door, but it’s worth it every single time!

Favourite Yoga Pose:

I love Sphinx pose as it really helps alleviate my lower back (being hunched over a desk 46hrs a week really takes its toll!!) I also love pigeon, great for stretching out & opening up those hips!

Least favourite yoga pose?

Not really found one I don’t like yet, but happy baby is probably one I wouldn’t mind not doing 😊

Off the Mat: Aside from yoga, what are your other interests or hobbies?

Music, Cars & Music! I’ve worked in the motor trade for 10 years & have had the opportunity to drive some incredible cars across Europe. Track days, off roading, even virtual reality driving! Music, however, will always be my happy place. I play guitar & have dabbled in drums & piano too, nothing beats a live rock band. I’ve been lucky enough to see some of the biggest bands in the world, from Metallica to Slipknot – Blue Oyster Cult to Brian Adams.

How do you balance your yoga practice with other aspects of your life?

My job & family take up the vast majority of my life, so it can be a challenge to make time for yoga. But it’s taught me so much about positivity & making time for yourself, self love is key to a happy life!

Mind-Body Connection: How does yoga influence your mental and emotional well-being?

I can’t put into words the difference that yoga has made in my life, there’s still so much to learn (letting go and relaxing being the hardest part for me) but the ability to breathe and mentally take yourself out of a situation is a life skill that everyone should have.

Have you noticed any changes in your mindset since starting yoga?

I’m calmer, stress less over the little things & generally feel like a better person.

How did you become a part of this yoga community?

I initially joined yoga with my parents, we wanted to try something new, whilst giving ourselves some quality time together between our hectic lives.

Wellness Practices: How do you maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle?

Not always easy, particularly when you work in the motor trade. I work every weekend & virtually every bank holiday too. Maintaining a household & running my teenager ‘taxi services’ there’s not normally a lot of time left for anything else. But I try to snack healthy, rest when I can & take every opportunity to get outside & enjoy nature.

Personal Growth: Can you share a specific instance where yoga played a significant role in your personal growth?

In the last year I’ve left a relationship of 17 years, moved away from my home town (only 20mins…but still!) and had to set up again on my own. Having my yoga class once a week has helped keep me grounded, learn to not stress over the little things & most importantly BE KIND. To myself & others.

Favourite Quotes or Mantras:

Advice for Others starting their yoga journey:

Give yourself time, don’t worry what others are thinking (believe me they’re more concerned about not falling/farting/making a tit of themselves to worry what you’re up to!) and EMBRACE IT!

How do you stay motivated to continue your yoga practice?

Knowing I get to spend my Thursday evenings with the most wonderful bunch of ladies is enough motivation for me, the health perks are an added bonus.

Future Goals:

I just want to keep pushing myself to do the best I can. Improve on the skills I’ve already learnt & throw myself into anything new.