At the Roots: Yoga Teacher Confessions

by Jennifer Much

As you walk through the doors at Roots Yoga & Healing in Algoma, we see you. Hair pulled back, mat rolled up under your arm, tucking your cell phone away in your bag. You’re wondering if you’re flexible enough, you’re hoping class will help you decompress fast today, you’re nervous everyone is watching you, and then questioning if you are going to do all the poses right. Those are all valid questions, but you know, your soul is just radiating and admittingly, your yoga teacher has some secrets!

Jamie has spent years dedicated to movement, stillness, and therapeutic touch which has led her to helping clients find a sense of balance, calm, and awareness within their own bodies. She discovered the powerful nature of yoga and her deeply-rooted passion for mind-body wellness in 2011 after taking her first yoga class.

Her passion is a hallmark of Roots Yoga where true inclusivity is celebrated. Yoga is for every body: the first timer, the novice, the busy bee, even the retiree who just wants to try something new or age gracefully. At Roots Yoga, the welcome mat calls to anyone looking to connect deeper with themselves, lift stress, and to live a healthier, more centered life.

Now, here is what your yoga teacher really wants you to really know:

1. You Don’t Have to Be Flexible

Yes, you read that correctly - you don’t need to be able to touch your toes, do the splits, or even twist yourself into a pretzel to belong in one of our yoga classes! One of the best things about mind and body wellness is that it means something different for everyone. Flexibility is also something you can develop through yoga, it’s not a starting requirement. Instead, bring an open mind and a willingness to immerse yourself into serenity.

2. Nobody is Judging You

This is a big one, but we promise it’s extra important. When you’re in our studio, we are much more interested in helping you feel confident, relaxed, and comfortable than watching to see if you wobble during the Tree Pose or how long you can do the Plank. Every yogi's journey may look different and we are here for you to have an amazing experience; know that judgement never crosses our doorway.

3. We Notice When You’re Holding Your Breath

Just breathe, yogi! It can be easy to get in the zone and so focused on doing everything right that you can forget one of the most critical parts: breathing! If you catch yourself holding your breath, do a quick reset to soften your breath, inhale, and begin again. We applaud your concentration, but let’s keep that fresh oxygen moving through your body, please!

4. Yoga Isn’t About Perfection

The goal of yoga isn’t flawlessness, it’s connection. We hope you learn to listen to yourself, breathe through any challenges that may arise, and savor the slow down when you need to. Our advice is to appreciate what your body can do today; don’t focus on what it used to be able to do or what it can maybe do tomorrow. Be present; your body and mind will thank you.

5. You Can Modify Any Pose

If your Downward Dog looks different than the person next to you, that’s completely okay. Your version of a pose is your version; your body isn’t supposed to move exactly like others. If you need to use blocks, straps, blankets, kneel down or take a break - it’s all part of the practice. Props aren’t signs you can’t do a pose; they’re tools to help that pose work for you!

6. You Can Pick Up Where You Left Off

Life can get busy, but yoga is a centerpoint to self-care and wellness is a process. We’d love to see you join us each week, or as often as you can! Don’t worry if it’s been a while, just come join us! Jamie is incredibly honored to encourage others on their wellness journeys and the work is incredibly meaningful to her. Come in, relax, and take a moment to care for every inch of your being, your body, mind, and soul.

7. Let’s Address the Elephant in the Room

At some point, yes, it may happen. You’re focused and deep in a stretch, completely relaxed, and suddenly…oops. Sometimes your body simply does what your body does. You’ll probably feel mortified and wonder if everyone heard it. And yes, we probably did. But here’s the thing: we truly do not care! We’re focused on our own practice, our breath, and the flow of class. It will be forgotten about approximately 30 seconds later, if not sooner. So if it happens to you, take a breath, have a little laugh, and just carry on.

And here’s the biggest secret of all…

You don’t have to be “good” at yoga to practice yoga. You just have to show up! Sometimes that can be the hardest part; some days you’ll feel strong and empowered, and others you may feel stiff. But we promise, no matter how you feel walking in, you’ll leave feeling even better! For a list of classes and booking info, visit www.rootsyogamindbody.com. We cannot wait to see you on the mat!