Becky Boyle: Teacher Feature July 2010

What got you into yoga? When, Where, Why?

I came to Yoga as a recreational athlete looking for flexibility, and the breathing made lots of sense. As I practiced, I learned and realized how much more Yoga could offer.

I loved asana and pranayama, struggled with pratyahara and dharana. Yoga gave me so many answers to why I liked and disliked, feared and embraced. As I moved away from the athletic persona with competition and ego and into the practice of Yoga, where the journey is more important than the outcome, I was happier.

When and why did you decide to start teaching?

I was teaching water exercise and working as a personal trainer at a local fitness center. It seemed natural to start teaching Yoga to my students and clients. I wanted them to learn about the practice and benefit from it as I had. I started teaching in 2001 at the fitness center and a neighboring Yoga studio. I have been with Yoga Village since opening day.

Briefly describe your training and influential teachers.

In the beginning, I attended workshops and was influenced by Rodney Yee and Baron Baptiste. I have learned so much from Lisa Abernethy, Ally Ford and Jaye Martin. My 200-hour certification is in Vinyasa Flow and I am registered with Yoga Alliance.

Briefly describe your personal approach to the practice.

After participating in the competitive and ego driven sport of running marathons, I approach my Yoga practice with no expectations, requirements or pressures. Yoga is my support system. It helps me stay balanced, keeps my cranky lower back healthier and has given me a vocation where there is always something new to learn.

Briefly describe your own practice and any thoughts or insights about staying with the practice.

I enjoy an energetic practice of Sun Salutations, but lately have been practicing more Yin and therapeutic Yoga. I am always researching new styles and techniques that will enable me to continue my practice as I grow older. I am a teacher, but I am first a student who shares what I learn with others. Yoga is a science providing vast learning opportunities. There will always be something new to share.

Becky teaches at 7PM on Monday's and 8:30AM on Wednesday's. You can read about her retreat experience as a guest teacher here.