Yoga Lineage
Knowing yourself is the beginning of all Wisdom - Aristotle
Understanding and honoring our yoga lineage is crucial for deeply appreciating and sharing the essence of our practice. While this overview offers a glimpse into the rich history of yoga, it is necessarily concise and partial.
Yoga is a journey of self-discovery, guided by inner connection, curiosity, and compassion. It encourages us to explore and experience our true selves through the wisdom passed down through generations.
A Journey to our Yoga Lineage
My personal yoga journey began in 1990 in Vancouver, BC, with Hatha Yoga. At 16, a close friend introduced me to a yoga class during a challenging period in my life. Those early experiences on the mat laid the foundation for healing, compassion, and self-exploration that continue to influence my practice today.
I am deeply grateful to my first teacher for her grace and unwavering support. Her guidance was pivotal in my journey, and although I never intended to teach, it became an essential part of discovering my authentic self. Her influence was profound and life-changing.
Continuing my Practice
My practice has evolved over the past 30 years through workshops, reading, and retreats. I completed 800-hour Embodiment Yoga training in Viniyoga and earned certifications in Thai Massage and Yoga Therapy. Several notable teachers have guided my path, including:
- Rod Stryker — Introduced me to the profound peace of meditation.
- Gary Kraftsow — Revealed the depth and nuance of Viniyoga.
- Jon Kabat-Zinn — Introduced me to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
- Denise Holden — Helped me reconnect with my practice. Fun fact: Denise’s lineage traces back to Integral Yoga with Sri Swami Satchidananda, who taught at Woodstock—an experience I wish I had witnessed!
Through Tapas (discipline), I have cultivated consistency in self-love and kindness. The wisdom gained from Svadhyaya (self-study) has guided me toward personal restoration, while Santosha (contentment) reminds me that the journey is an ongoing path of growth and learning.
