Sara Gottfried / Yoga

TEACHING VIBE

What brought you to yoga? We love a good origin story.

I often do not think of myself as the typical "yogi." Before starting yoga, I had a stereotype of what a true "yogi" was. Perhaps, calm, cool, and collected to say the least. I have a type-A personality and live my life according to a schedule. As someone who has always dealt with anxiety, I have gone through some difficult times. While in high school, my anxiety peaked and I encountered some major mental and physical health issues. During that period of time I could not live my life to the fullest and I sort of lost my "Sara" spark. After doing some research, I cautiously stepped into the world of yoga. I took a beginner's yoga class and although I felt like that odd one out, I quickly realized that the yoga room is truly a judgement free zone. After a few classes, I felt "lighter" and more present within myself and the world. Personally, the practice was and still is a way for me to hit pause on what is happening in my life and take an hour or so to slow down and be grateful for who I am, how I am, and what I am. I always remind others and myself, that yoga did not fix or cure me, but it was a consistent and complementive therapy to me being able to stabilize my anxiety, then and now.

How would you describe your teaching flow?

Adult and Prenatal Classes: I teach a mindful Vinyasa class that I constantly tailor to meet all students' needs in the present moment. I guide student's through a flow that is complimented by music, energy, and compassion as my focus is on proper alignment with room for each student to learn and grow at their own pace. My goal is that all students leave feeling confident, safe, and nourished, emotionally, mentally, and physically. Children's Classes: I teach children's yoga classes that accommodate ALL levels of physical and mental abilities. I steer away from the typical sports-based arena and focus on providing a non-competitive, positive, and safe space. I understand that not all children adapt to a situation in the same way and thus I integrate auditory, kinesthetic, and visual learning techniques into every yoga class. I integrate the values of community, peace, and positive energy throughout the yoga class and emphasize the saying, "Be Kind, Be True, Be You."

Music Preferences? What is always on your playlist? Favorite artist?

I have to admit, my favorite genre of music is County. But, I never put that on my playlist because, 1) I am afraid I'd break out into song and let's just say I am no singer! and 2) I like to include music that is not distracting. Ra Ma Da Sa- Girish Kevin Paris Jack Johnson Fleetwood Mac Here Comes the Sun- The Beatles

What was your most memorable yoga experience?

My most memorable yoga experience was when I took my very first yoga class. It was a beginner's yoga class and at the end the instructor came up to me and asked how I felt. I quickly replied, "I thought I did good!" The instructor said, "Yes, you did very well," and then walked away. As I continued to attend that class, I realized that the way I had responded to that initial question was based solely on my physical practice. The instructor was not truly asking about the poses, but rather how I felt, internally. It took me a while to realize this, but after doing so, I felt that I was able to engage in the yoga practice in a completely different way. So, even today, I do my very best to not judge my practice based solely on the physical poses, but rather the combination of mind, body, and movement.

Any teacher shoutouts? Favorite yoga teacher?

Jacqui Bonwell is a one of a kind individual. She is truly amazing inside and out. I feel that Jacqui's unique and genuine nature and kind-heartedness is what makes her so approachable. Her classes are filled with inspiration, physically and mentally and I always say that everyone needs a "Jacqui Bonwell" in their life. I am forever grateful for having taken her 200-hr. Yoga Teacher Training and she will always have a very special place in my heart.

MEET: SARA GOTTFRIED