Yoga at Work Student Feature

Meet Stephany, she is a graphic designer for the Texas Association of School Boards. The Texas Association of School Boards offers a weekly yoga class taught by Susan. Stephanie has been regularly attending this class for over a year.

Yoga Yoga: What do you like about having yoga at work?
Stephany: I have two small children and work full-time, so it’s difficult for me to make it to a 90 minute class at a Yoga Yoga studio each week. Having a weekly class right here in our office building allows me to keep my practice on track. If I can make it to additional studio classes—great! But if I can’t, at least I know I have that one hour each week that is built into my weekly schedule. And our teacher, Susan, makes class so much fun! We joke and laugh and never take ourselves too seriously. It’s a great way to spend an hour in the middle of your workday.

Yoga Yoga: What benefits do you receive by doing yoga?
Stephany: My yoga practice is an important part of my overall health and wellness. It relieves stress and helps me build strength, flexibility, and focus. Between homework, missing stuffed animals, and play dates, I don’t get a lot of time to myself—even though we all need that time for our emotional well being. My yoga practice is time for me. It keeps me centered, happy, and peaceful. Every Tuesday I wake up happy that it’s “yoga day!”

Yoga Yoga: What was your experience with yoga before it was offered at work?
Stephany: I have practiced yoga for about 9 years. Before Yoga Yoga brought their weekly class to our office, my practice was sporadic at best. For a few months I would do yoga at a Yoga Yoga studio, or at home, once or twice a week. Then I would stop. A few months later I would start up again. I couldn’t maintain a consistent practice. Now I always do yoga at least once a week, but usually 3 times per week. I hope to build my practice to 4-6 times per week before school starts back up in the fall!

Yoga Yoga: What are your other hobbies, interests?
Stephany: I love anything and everything creative. Sewing, cooking, knitting, jewelry making—you name it. I love to be outside. And I love all animals. The perfect day for me would be going to yoga, followed by a hike with my kids, husband, and dogs, and amazing dinner prepared by my whole family. Throw in friends and a glass or two of wine and I’m a happy person!

Yoga Yoga: Favorite book, CD, or vacation spot:
Stephany: I never have enough time to read books these days, so I read lots of magazines. I love Body and Soul. Favorite CD? That’s tough. In summer it’s always good, classic 70s rock like Fleetwood Mac or The Eagles, but I also love everything by Ben Harper and Iron and Wine. Vacation spot? Any place that involves nature, wildlife, water, and my family!