I began practicing yoga in 1998 with my sisters, Maria and Amy at a studio called Yoga Awareness in Lethbridge Alberta. At that time Yoga was not cool or popular, at least not in Alberta. I continued to study and practice with the owner of the studio, Lana Salant for several years in which time she mentored me to teach both Hatha and Power Yoga. We discovered and practiced Bryan Kests Power Yoga videos, even though they were only videos I regard him as one of my first teachers. I loved his style, humour and humility. I have since done a teacher training with Bryan and continue to hold him in great esteem. I met Rockne White from Yoga in Motion at a workshop in Lethbridge in 2000 where he introduced me to the Ashtanga yoga system, I was blown away by the Ashtanga primary and secondary series. He also introduced me to the Rocket series form the legendary Larry Shhultz in San francisco. The series was exactly what i was looking for at this phase in my life as i was training in Muay Thai, Kickboxing and Jeet Kune do at PFA, in Lethbridge Alberta. I loved to move fluidly, push my boundaries and sweat My sister, Amy and I began to practice David Swensons Ashtanga videos in my parent's living room. I remember pushing the coffee tables out of the way and attempting as many different variations of being upside down as possible. I attended a few David Williams workshops in both Calgary and Las vegas. I respected his humor, and his gentle but fierce yoga practice. He had the biggest smile I have ever seen. It amazed me how young and strong his body seemed, effortless despite his age. At the time Yoga seemed so complicated and esoteric, David made it all so simple and practical, "Before you practice the theory is useless, after you practice the theory is obvious"
I continued to study both martial arts and yoga throughout my time at university where I graduated with a degree in Exercise science. I also was intrigued by and studied philosophy, eastern religion and psychology.
During my study of exercise science i became obsessed with physical fitness. I was inspired by Tanya Lee, to complete a body transformation. I was able to set goals for my body and myself make them happen. This was the first time I was conscious of this power. Set an intention, set aside your beliefs, preconceptions, excuses and fear. I competed in Fitness competitions and began taking gymnastics. I landed my first back flip at age 22. I was high. It was such a powerful experience, I learned many hard lessons through the extremes i placed my body and mind through, but i am grateful for the experience and the lesson. In every challenge there is an opportunity for growth if you are open to it's teaching.
I have been practicing and instructing yoga for over a decade now . I consider myself to be a perpetual student learning from many great teachers and students. I have experienced many extremes in my body and have studied several fitness practices in depth.The practice of yoga and meditation has given me a tool in which I can remain focused and therefore present, I have become more conscious of my habitual reactions and pre conceptions. My mind is clearer, which allows me to better decisions. It's not a perfect science, not even close 50/50 at best but it gets better with practice.
My Yoga practice is not always easy, but In a difficult pose when I am struggling with every bone of my being to hold on, I go inside with my breath and become aware of my resistance. I begin to feel my thoughts become harsh and angry. I start to make excuses, fidget and become uncomfortable. I feel myself at war just trying to survive and win at all costs, and then with a deep exhale I let it go. No judgment. Being a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend is no different, there are moments when we begin to lose control; however my yoga practice has made me more aware of my thoughts ad reactions. Yoga creates space for consciousness and this will change your life and the world around you.
I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with all of you, assisting you in unleashing your true potential and achieving optimal health. The Truth is there is no magic pill or perfect exercise. Find something that feeds both your body and your soul, continue to be honest with yourself and commit. I sincerely believe that anybody can accomplish anything they dream, if the intention and willingness is there. It is my goal as an instructor and friend to take this intention and turn it into a reality.
Luc has been passionate about physical fitness and sport since he was young. He began playing competitive baseball and hockey at a very young age. At 16 years old he moved from Winnipeg Manitoba to Lethbridge Alberta to play WHL Hockey. At 18 he was drafted in the 4th round (101st)to the Buffalo Sabres. He played Professional Hockey for 4 years (Rochester and South Carolina) until he was sidelined by injuries. Love and passion for the game of hockey led Luc back to the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the WHL, where he was the assistant coach for 3 years. During this time Luc was very interested in fitness, nutrition and yoga. Luc loved working with younger players, watching them set goals and develop not only as athletes but achieve success in all areas of their life as well. He became a certified personal trainer and has taken many courses pertaining to health and wellness. He continues to inspire people to stay healthy and active as both a Personal trainer and Core bootcamp instructor. Luc is a full time professional fighter fighter with the city of Edmonton