What made you decide to become a teacher?
When Samudra announced its first teacher training, it had been just a few months since rediscovering my practice at the studio. For the first time in any movement-focused space, my abundant body didn’t feel like a limitation or hindrance. I could flow on my mat supported by all the props and float away in complete bliss. I wanted to be able to share that with others and help students of all shapes and sizes know that yoga is accessible to them. In my classes, I try to foster the individualistic nature of physical postures and release any tendency toward comparison.
What’s your favorite non yoga activity?
Off the mat I enjoy corgi snuggles with Savvy, reading, writing, beach walks, and home improvement or decor projects. As a creative person, I usually have a project in planning or progress!
What’s your favorite thing about the Samudra community?
In the years of teaching and practicing at Samudra, the one thing I love most is our community. Our students and teachers have a collective energy that is contagious. Even behind the face masks, you know everyone is smiling and happy to be at the studio. It’s not only the physical and mindful practice that has helped me survive the past year, it’s also the people I see in studio or on screen
In the years of teaching and practicing at Samudra, the one thing I love most is our community. Our students and teachers have a collective energy that is contagious. Even behind the face masks, you know everyone is smiling and happy to be at the studio. It’s not only the physical and mindful practice that has helped me survive the past year, it’s also the people I see in studio or on screen
What advice would you give to someone who wants to try yoga for the first time?
Before coming to Samudra, I had attended classes here and there, which were all more advanced than advertised, fast paced, confusing, and frustrating. I say this not to discourage someone from trying yoga, but to set expectations. Better yet — release all expectations! Come to class with an open mind. You might get lost in a sequence or confused by cues. Don’t worry about it. Keep coming back and your body will start to learn. I came to Samudra for a workshop, but stayed for the SPA Yoga — the dimly lit room, floor-based poses, gave me permission to move in a way that felt good without comparing myself to others and start to learn the language of yoga. And know that if you have any questions at all, our teachers are all super helpful and willing to chat.
Before coming to Samudra, I had attended classes here and there, which were all more advanced than advertised, fast paced, confusing, and frustrating. I say this not to discourage someone from trying yoga, but to set expectations. Better yet — release all expectations! Come to class with an open mind. You might get lost in a sequence or confused by cues. Don’t worry about it. Keep coming back and your body will start to learn. I came to Samudra for a workshop, but stayed for the SPA Yoga — the dimly lit room, floor-based poses, gave me permission to move in a way that felt good without comparing myself to others and start to learn the language of yoga. And know that if you have any questions at all, our teachers are all super helpful and willing to chat.
Any other fun tidbit you want to share?
At the risk of sounding cliche, yoga and my teacher training changed my life. My practice has helped quell (not cure) my generalized anxiety and panic disorders. My perfectionist personality has been reined in and I don’t have such extreme negative reactions when something goes wrong. The benefits of yoga go far beyond the physical changes you might see in your body with a consistent practice.
Emma teaches currently every Wednesday night in person and on zoom, as well as offers workshops and additional trainings.