Name: Ali Taylor

Age: 48

Occupation: Secondary Art & Design Teacher

How do you know Jordanna? I initially met Jordanna at an outdoor yoga class before becoming a regular at the Erskine centre.

Which of her classes do you go to and how long have you been going to her classes? I have been going to the Tuesday night class for approximately 2 years.

Introduction: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into yoga? Hello! I’m Ali & I’m a big fan of the visual & performing arts, whether it’s a summer festival, live music, seeing a musical, going to the cinema or visiting an art gallery. Travel is also a passion, which often involves European adventures in our trusty camper van. I got into yoga about 25 years ago whilst living in Nottingham after attending a class at the international community centre & it’s become ingrained in my life ever since

Yoga Journey:

What motivated you to start practicing yoga? I’d read about the benefits of yoga & was curious to find out if they were true.

How has yoga positively impacted your life? Yoga helps me to stay focussed, subtle & the breath work has been invaluable at certain points throughout my life.

Favourite Yoga Pose:

Do you have a favourite yoga pose or sequence? Why? I’ve always liked triangle pose but I also love flowing sequences like sun & moon salutations.

Least favourite yoga pose? Why? Sitting on my knees or toes for long periods isn’t particularly comfortable!

Off the Mat:

Aside from yoga, what are your other interests or hobbies? I like to keep fit by walking in the countryside, cycling to a local pub or my weekly dance fix at Zumba!

How do you balance your yoga practice with other aspects of your life? I try to fit yoga in most days, even if it’s just a 5 minute wake up workout.

Mind-Body Connection:

How does yoga influence your mental and emotional well-being? I weave yoga, mindfulness & breath work into my daily life to help navigate any challenges along the way.

Have you noticed any changes in your mindset since starting yoga? Difficult to say as it’s been a constant for over half my life!

Community Involvement:

How did you become a part of this yoga community? I found out about Jordanna’s classes online & decided to give it a go!

Are there any community events or activities that you particularly enjoy? I’ve particularly enjoyed the retreats that involve creativity alongside yoga. My perfect combination!

Wellness Practices:

Do you have any other wellness practices that complement your yoga routine? Walking in nature is a huge part of my mental health routine. I often feel constrained being indoors too much so like to escape to places where I feel there’s endless space & fresh air to help reset.

How do you maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle? I’ve been vegetarian for most of my life & love to cook & eat good food. I also try to be as active as I can & have a weekly routine involving yoga, Zumba & walking.

Personal Growth:

Can you share a specific instance where yoga played a significant role in your personal growth? Yoga & walking helped me navigate a personal trauma when my husband died suddenly whilst we were expecting our first child in 2013. My life was literally turned upside down & I felt incredibly lost & heart broken. Escaping outside in nature was a huge help as I felt claustrophobic indoors & yoga helped to focus my mind away from the storm.

Favourite Quotes or Mantras:

Do you have any favourite yoga-related quotes or mantras that inspire you? “Yoga is the practice of quieting the mind”

Advice for Others:

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting their yoga journey? Go for it & don’t compare yourself to anyone else, we’ve all got our strengths & weaknesses on & off the mat.

How do you stay motivated to continue your yoga practice? As long as I’m able I’ll always practice yoga.

Community Connection:

How do you connect with others in the yoga community? I find that fellow yogis are usually like- minded people so it’s a pleasure not a chore!

Are there any yoga-related events or workshops that you recommend to fellow practitioners? Outdoor yoga in the sunshine - a perfect combination!

Future Goals:

Do you have any specific goals or aspirations related to your yoga practice? To keep practicing for as long as I’m able.

How do you see your yoga journey evolving in the future? To keep on keeping on! Namaste X