How did you become interested in Yoga?
While in law school I was chronically stressed and needed a way to relax. My neck muscles were so stiff I could not even release
to circle my neck. After practicing a long time using home videos, I began exploring classes at my health club and met a wonderful teacher, Millie Krejci. Her spirit and approach to yoga so embodied lila, or playfulness, as well as aparigraha, or non-attachment. This made me love the practice and inspired me to pass on the ideals she embodied and expressed so beautifully.
Do you think Yoga is a complete system of fitness?
It is this and much more. No other practice offers such comprehensive mental, physical and emotional benefits. That said, I must admit I am a gym rat--into running and pretty intense cardiovascular exercise. My dream, when my kids don't need me so much, is to have a go at solely practicing asana and meditation while taking a break from other pursuits. I'm curious and excited to see where that leads.
Describe your class style.
I think it's natural to teach in a way that's consistent with the way you like to practice, and I like to be challenged. If you are doing the same routine, why not apply the extra effort and see where it takes you? This is where we can really grow! I encourage my student to try this and I strive to create a supportive, non-judgmental, fun environment in which they can experiment.
You play some non-traditional yoga tunes...
I am attracted to passionate music. All genres. The requisite slowing down we experience as soon as we step on the mat can have a wonderful consequence of bringing your emotions right to the forefront of your heart, your mind, your whole being. Music, with a little passion, just enhances this for me.
Who (or what) inspires you?
I have an 8-year old and six-year old twin sons . They so exuberantly embrace life and live every moment to the fullest. Nearly every day, I see at least one of them experience fear or uncertainty, and, in the face of it, press on with an open mind and heart. That inspires me! I like to think about human potential, what we are capable of individually and collectively. Often so much more than we actualize. This motivates me to push myself beyond what l might initially think I am capable of or comfortable with.
What does mind/body mean?
Many factors of our contemporary society and lifestyle perpetuate and even reward a great disconnect between mind and body. On the one hand, we have this intense drive to do and acquire so much that we believe we lack the time to devote to connecting with our own body and with the present moment. On the other hand, the dumbing down of our nation - "reality TV," celebrity obsession, junk food, "social media" - it has become possible to completely neglect of our human need for connection and community. These needs have been replaced with this drive to find continuous distraction from our emotions and from what is happening in our own reality - in the present. Yoga strives to integrate the mind, body and spirit by being quiet and bringing our experience inward.
Susan Troester is a 200-hour level certified yoga instructor.
She received her certification through the esteemed
Moksha Program led by
Daren Friesen.
Look for a $5 coupon for Susan's class in our Nov. newsletter
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