Eliana Velásquez — ESL Teacher

Yoga is a holistic experience for many — mind, body, spirit — but did one element or another first draw you to the practice? 

I turn towards yoga to calm my mind and body — each goes through a lot during my daily life and yoga provides a sense of calmness and peace

How about now: does yoga feed your mind or your body or your spirit more, or are those elements more in balance than when you started?

each is more balanced

How long have you been practicing yoga?

on and off for about 10 years

How frequently do you practice yoga?

every time my body or mind feels cluttered I turn towards yoga

Are you more likely to attend classes at a studio or practice yoga at home?

at home, particularly with an assist from YouTube

Do you have a preferred yoga style?

I do not follow a specific practice, but just what feels right to my body

When you were starting out, what came easiest and what was more challenging?

the movements were fairly easy blocking out distractions, especially when practicing at home, was more difficult

What have been the greatest benefits of yoga for you?

a clear head and the sense of accomplishment while moving my body

Apart from yoga, do you practice other techniques of mindfulness or meditation?

I practice sleep meditation each night before bed

Do you regularly do other forms of exercise?

I have recently started switching it up, and I enjoy a good Pilates session

Outside of a yoga session, do you ever just strike a pose and stretch?

tree pose is my go-to while cooking in the kitchen

If I gave you an expenses-paid yoga retreat, where would you go?

Bali

—interview © Marshal Zeringue