Susan Troester
My very first yoga students were poor, recently immigrated Latina victims of domestic violence. They spoke no English; I spoke (almost) no Spanish. They had never practiced before; I had never taught before. Their kids played all around us in the community center lunchroom that we used for our classes. In spite of these obstacles, they got it. They tried; they breathed; they relaxed.
I am grateful to have learned through this experience so early in my yoga teacher journey that most fundamental of yoga's philosophical underpinnings - we are not separate and alone. Rather, we are all interconnected parts of one body and yoga is awesome for any and all of us. Wherever we are at - where ever we come from - wherever we want to go.
After a rather sedentary childhood, I have enjoyed all forms of fitness activities as an adult. This influences my teaching and my own practice. Can do attitude. No excuses. Sweating is good. At the same time, I focus on the connection to breath and the uniting of breath with movement to encourage the full spiritual and emotional experience for my students.
I love how humbling yoga is - within seconds of stepping on your mat, it is clear that perfection is not an option. There is always somewhere further to go - whether that is physically within the asana, or, to experience the asana in another kosha, or, to keep your mind more fully present and connected with your inner experience. As a student or teacher, you don't have to excel at every asana, you just have to be willing to try, approach things mindfully, compassionately and fearlessly.
I trained with Daren Friesen through his Moksha Yoga Center 200 Hour Teacher Training Program and with Mac McHugh to teach Niyama Hot Yoga. I have apprenticed with some excellent local teachers and have enjoyed training with a variety of nationally recognized master teachers. I teach all levels of vinyasa flow, Niyama Hot Yoga, and instruct privately.
I can be reached at leadwithyourheart@gmail.com.
