Tell us a little bit about yourself :)
I am from India and live in the beautiful city, Chandigarh. My father served in the Indian Army and very much into sports, so I was always encouraged to join sports.
I grew up doing rhythmic gymnastics and I am a coach as well. My love for yoga started last year after I completed Master's in Economics. I completely got hooked to yoga and it changed my life.
How did you get introduced to yoga?
I got introduced to yoga by my mother, as I was very unhappy and confused with my life and career. Little did she know, it would become my lifetime passion.
When did yoga get “serious”?
After attending a few classes I was sure about my passion for yoga, it is the best way to connect to yourself. I even made my parents try it. I honestly feel that everyone should try it at least once. We should value ourselves more than anything else.
Like BKS Iyengar said, "the body is my temple, asanas are my prayers."
Can you share your biggest challenges ?
The biggest challenge I faced was changing my career completely, because you are expected to take up a job after completing your studies. I did feel a lot of pressure to stand up to my family's expectations. But my parents have been supportive and understand me and my dreams to pursue a career in yoga and sports.
How do you handle pressure?
My yoga practice is not that pressurizing because I see myself growing. But sometimes I am a little too hard on myself to perform better, so I just get on my mat and forget all about it.
Can you share your thoughts on self consciousness?
Since my teenage years I have been very self conscious about the way I looked and to top it all my skin has always been acne prone. At times I didn't go out thinking everyone is going to judge me, which has evolved over time. Practicing yoga everyday has increased my selfconfidence. The more you believe in yourself, the better you do.
What was your most embarrassing moment (in regards to yoga of course ;)
No such embarrassing moment, but whenever I go out to get a picture clicked, a few people always gather around and start staring, which makes it awkward. Maybe in the future I'll have a story to tell.
How did yoga influence your life in other ways?
My life has changed quite a lot, I think more positively and feel healthier and I see myself in a completely different light now. It is the best decision I ever made. Now every day is a new day to progress and maybe learn a new asana and discover more about myself. It surprises me with what all our bodies are capable of doing.
What does your daily routine look like ?
I make it a point to practice daily and I think that is what keeps me motivated. My daily practice includes starting with sun salutations and then a little bit of flexibility training. I do a bit of strength building exercises as well. And finish it with 10-15 minutes of pranayama and then Om chanting.
And what about your flexibility training ? Where does that fit in ?
For flexibility, it’s very important to be regular in all your stretching exercises. Just remember to do a bit of stretching every day. Plus you need to have patience as the growth is gradual and slow. You may not see a lot of difference but your flexibility is increasing. Here patience and practice is the key.
What keeps you motivated?
My own practice and how I feel after doing yoga keeps me motivated. I find a lot of motivation from the yoga community on IG. They are all beautiful souls with inspiring stories.
What are your future plans/goals/dreams?
I prefer to live in the present, but I would love to own a yoga studio or a retreat center, travel and teach wherever I go.
And someday live with the love of my life, have a family and be in love forever.
Any tips for passionate people starting out ?
Don't be in a hurry to learn everything about yoga in a day. Take it slow and let it go on its own pace. You will eventually reach your goals and set new goals. Just be happy wherever you are in your yoga journey. Because happiness is the most important thing.
Anything you’d like to share?
Thank you for taking out time to read. Do what you love and stay blessed.Don't forget to follow me on instagram @_surbhisharma and facebook Surbhi Sharma !!!