Abbotsford Yoga Instructors Testimonials

The Accidental Yogi

You must be wondering what the term "Accidental Yogi" refers to. Ok, here's the story... Back 1991 I was struck by a car while riding my bike. I seperated my shoulder and rotated my pelvis. This is when I began taking yoga classes with hopes of improving my mobility and strength.

Well, I wasn't finished yet...In 1992 I slipped on black ice and broke my ankle. After 2 surgeries on my ankle I was stuck in a wheelchair. I practiced Iyengar Yoga for my upper body during that time which started my journey into yoga for people with special needs.

My experiences with Iyengar Yoga were so positive it led me into a deeper exploration of Iyengar's healing elements. My ankle healed so well the specialist was amazed. I achieved with yoga alone and no physiotherapy.

My Apprenticeship

I began my apprenticeship in 1995 under Senior Teacher Marlene Mawhinney at the Yoga Center in Toronto. I apprenticed in Yoga for people with special needs or limitations. In 1996 I was accepted into Marlene's 3 year teacher training program from which I graduated.

I went on to prepare for the National Certification which I obtained in 2001. I was recently awarded another level of certifcation of Junior Intermediate 1 by the Canadian Iyengar Yoga Association.

Also, to maintain certification, I am required to do 50 developmental hours per year through the Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada.

It was both a lot of work and a personal transformation for me and my life path. I studied in India at the Iyengar Institute in 2005 and 2010 and several times with the Iyengars at North American conventions.

I continue to upgrade my skills as a teacher and currently pursuing the next level of certification in Iyengar Yoga under tutelage of Senior Teacher Ingelise Nherlan.

My aim is to transfer this dedication into my classes and instill this learning into my students. My ultimate goal is to obtain certification as a recognized therapeutic instructor Iyengar Yoga Association. Learn more here

I am currently involved in a Breast cancer and Yoga research project at the Yoga Space Vancouver with Louie Ettling http://theyogaspace.ca
It is very rewarding being a part of this project!

abbootsfor yoga studio picture

The classes I teach have a focus on the students coupled with a bit of humor now and then to lighten things up. The world can be challenging sometimes and yoga is meant to relieve stress, not create more of it.

I am also a holistic practitoner graduating from the British Columbia Institute of Holistic Studies in 2005 specializing in aromatherapy, reflexology and lymphatic drainage massage.

The Big Moment!

It was a big moment when I opened my Yoga Studio in 2006. I thoroughly enjoy helping others experience the incredible healing benefits of Iyengar Yoga. The response from the community has filled me with gratitude and continues to bring me satisfaction each day I come to the studio to teach.

So, as you can see, a series of accidents led me into a life as a Yoga Instructor. I guess I really am the Accidental Yogi! Yet, as I've come to discover, there really are no accidents.

Iyengar Yoga changed my life, that's for sure. Maybe it can help heal yours in a way that's right for you. I have the skills to assist you in your own personal journey...