Meet Lizzie, one of our online Members
My name is Lizzy and I live in Halesowen in the West Midlands. I'm 57 and have a 34 year old son and two grandchildren aged 10 and 4.
I share my space with my elderly cat, Midnight who quite often just sits and watches me during yoga classes. I work as part of the pastoral team in a secondary SEMH provision. It's one of a kind and although it's a stressful job, I feel privileged to work there. I'm also trained in a wide range of holistic therapies.
When did you start your yoga journey and how often do you practice yoga?
I've been doing yoga for about 15 years now, I used to attend local classes every week, mainly Vinyasa flow and Hatha. Lockdown put a stop to attending classes and I was recommended to Emma and haven't looked back since. I found they gave me focus and inner strength during difficult times.
I currently practice 3-4 times a week, sometimes relying on the yoga library classes due to work commitments. I much prefer live yoga classes due to the accountability factor!
Why yoga / core classes help you?
One of the main reasons I'm drawn to yoga is the mental health benefits. My day job is stressful and to focus, turn inward and work with mind in tune with my body during a yoga class is hugely beneficial. I tend to do the core drills classes during school holidays and notice such a difference in my core strength and stamina. My aim is to do these daily eventually but a 7am start at work means it's just holidays for now!
What's your least favourite yoga pose/core drill and why?
My least favourite yoga poses are generally twists especially if they involve shoulders!
Yoga goals?
I'm working towards a yoga headstand. I feel happy with my tripod headstand but the next step is on my forearms. I need to work on my upper body strength to stand a chance of achieving a satisfactory headstand. I enjoy joining in for standing sequence of Ashtanga on a Tuesday but haven't yet got the confidence to stay for the whole class!
Plans for the future?
I'm hoping to make a move in the next couple of years down to Glastonbury to have a base to practice holistic therapies and maybe an Airbnb. Watch this space!
