Meet Tammy Kennelly, a Salem resident, who has been practicing at Self Awakening Yoga Studio since it opened way back in 2006.
Tammy teaches Power Yoga on Thursday evenings and All Level Heated and Unheated on Sunday mornings.
Learn why she teaches, what yoga style influenced her and what she currently working on in her personal practice.
What inspired you to become a yoga teacher?
Yoga changed my life. I started my practice with the intention of easing anxiety but was instantly drawn to the physical benefits - or so I thought. I realize now that you don't have to fully "get it" when you start - just keep showing up. After years of practice, I've learned that within the physical practice IS the practice. Presence, breath, sitting with challenge, has truly transformed how I carry myself - that, I had to share.
What are your classes like and what styles of yoga or teachers are you most influenced by?
I tend to lean towards "power" yoga in my personal practice as well as my teaching style. I find personally that the best way to challenge my edge is in a challenging pose. Sometimes we have to be in those places of discomfort to see ourselves and to understand how presence and breath can serve us in our lives.
What are you currently working on in your own yoga practice? Do you have a favorite pose?
My ongoing focus is always on presence. I still get amazed at the shift in experience, on and off my mat, by being in the moment and out of my head. Holding a pose a little longer or trying an arm balance with complete presence and awareness (and a sense of humor!) is where I like to challenge myself.
My favorite pose at the moment is probably Virabhadrasana III (Warrior III), but every practice is different. Any pose where I get a sense of feeling grounded, open, and strong.
 |
| Warrior III |
