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Meet the Yoga Expert: Jennifer Winter

Apr05

by admin on April 5, 2012 at 4:41 pm

Posted In: Fitness

Meet The Expert: Jennifer Winter

Can you begin by telling us a little bit about yourself?

I am a 200-hr yoga instructor. I teach a variety of classes- vinyasa, hatha, kids yoga and therapeutic yoga. I have a degree in athletic training it has helped me to be a better teacher. I teach 7 scheduled classes a week, plus privates and host special events. I am currently finishing school to be a mind body wellness practitioner with a focus in holistic nutrition.

When did you first get introduced to yoga?

I was first introduced to yoga 12 years ago when my brother gave me a yoga DVD for my birthday. At the time I was hesitant and unsure about the gift…looking back it was one of the best gifts he has ever given me. I played that DVD and practiced continuously. I still have the DVD and when I need to feel refreshed and brought back to earth I use that DVD. The studio that changed my life was the La Jolla Yoga Center in La Jolla, CA. I was introduced to yoga in a whole new way. I gained a new appreciation for yoga and a deep connection to my teachers and the studio. This is were my teaching blossomed and I really came into my own.

What do you love most about practicing yoga and yoga itself?

I love that yoga allows me to express myself and my skills. It allows me to take a break, relax and recharge. I leave every practice in complete bliss, waiting for my next class.

At what point did you realize you wanted to teach?

I was at a low point in my life, and I knew that I needed a change but unsure what it was. I had taken a break from graduate school and was searching for something. It was then that I decided to take my hobby and turn it into my passion. I did a google search for yoga teacher training programs in San Diego, and found La Jolla Yoga Center. After speaking to the studio manager, I paid my deposit the next day. I packed up my life and moved 3,000 miles away in search of something. It wasn’t until I got to the studio that I knew what I was searching for…myself and my spirit. Somewhere along the line I lost myself and my spirit was so diminished. As soon as I walked in the doors I felt at home. I knew I was meant to be a yoga teacher, and if I could have even half the impact that my teachers have had on my life then I will be so grateful. After completing my yoga teacher training and teaching for the past year, yoga is something that I could not live without. Yoga saved my life, it brought me a deeper connection with myself.

What do you love most about teaching yoga?

The thing that I most love about teaching is seeing my students faces after their final relaxation. I love seeing the feeling of complete bliss on their faces. Many of them can not help smiling. I love sharing my passion with others, being able to heal my students, and give them a safe place to practice. A place to heal their mind, body and spirit. In today’s society it can be easy to overlook our whole bodies. It is very important to check in with your mind, body and spirit daily. I enjoy guiding my students through this amazing journey.

Are there different types of yoga?

There are many different types of yoga:

Vinyasa

Hatha

Anusara

Therapeutic

Yin

Gentle

Bikram

Svaroopa

There are many different variations of yoga, most come from the basics of hatha yoga.

What advice do you have for people who have never tried yoga?

I would suggest trying a few different styles and different teachers. It is important to connect with your teacher, they will be your guide through your journey. Choose a style that fits with your mind and body goals.

What in your opinion are the greatest health benefits of doing yoga?

The greatest health benefits of yoga are in the mind. Of course with regular practice and a healthy diet you can achieve a healthy tone body. One of the best benefits of yoga is that it allows you to check in with yourself. It allows you to have a calm mind, strengthen your body and connect with your spirit.

“Don’t let anyone tell you what your yoga should or shouldn’t be. It doesn’t matter what you seek when you come to the mat – a cure for back pain, a quiet mind, Madonna’s arm muscles. The important thing is that you’re there every day. That’s real yoga.” -Peg Mulqueen
To good health!