For the last few years, I have been very interested in the benefits of yoga and mental health. During this time I have attended many courses that focus on the development and implementation of yoga therapy treating PTSD.  My father worked in psychiatric hospitals, so I was aware from a very young age of people suffering from major depressive disorders and psychological problems.  Most of these centres have long closed but I believe yoga can have positive benefits for those suffering from anxiety, depression, attention deficit and sleep disorders. We live in a world that expects us to go so fast all the time, which creates much stress physically and mentally.  I think a safe, calm yoga class can help us to be more present and therefore give us the ability to calm our modern-day anxieties.  Yoga, breath work, and meditation are wonderful practices to soothe the nervous system.

I have been working for several years in a hospital for women with personality and eating disorders. Self-care and self-awareness through yoga can help to increase emotional stability on a physical and mental level as well as promoting deep relaxation and releasing negative thoughts.

Combat Stress.  I have been teaching yoga for Veterans dealing with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.  I find that working strongly and slowing down the breath with this group helps to calm inner turmoil and create a space of peace.

“When working under a precise discipline, the mind has a chance to fall quiet so freedom can be experienced.  We feel lighter and mentally calmer.”