YOGI OF THE MONTH

January 2023 - Candie Newman

What first brought you to yoga and how long have you been practicing?

About 20 years ago, after spending 8 years in a neck brace culminating in a cervical fusion, I was searching for some exercise to reclaim my body. My church was offering a yoga class. So, that’s how it started. I couldn’t touch my toes, sit in staff position and definitely doubted that Down Dog was a resting pose. I could, however, do a mean corpse pose! 

What is/are your intention(s) for your yoga practice?

When I have to miss a class or two, my body definitely lets me know it.  So each practice I just try to be present, accepting where I am in life and physical abilities without judgment. 

What is your favorite pose and why?

I actually do enjoy Down Dog now! It’s a restful pose, plus it gives you an inversion and also stretches out the back of the legs and spine. It only took 20 years to get here! 

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

I enjoy Slow Flow. It allows me time to pay attention to alignment and make adjustments as needed for any limitations I have.

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

I’m a competitive, over-achiever. Yoga has taught me to be gentler with myself and not so judgmental. A nice flow becomes very meditative which helps to control the “monkey mind,” a nice side benefit.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

The best way to improve your practice is to keep showing up to practice. Eventually you realize that you’ve gained strength, range of motion and balance.  

What is your occupation?

Retired! 

What activities do you enjoy?

I’m a watercolor artist. Most of my work is online at present. I enjoy working in the yard and gardens and spend a lot of time with my youngest grandson. I’m also part of a “French Circle” which meets weekly for conversational French. 

What is your favorite thing about living in the Northern Neck or Middle Peninsula?

I’ve been blessed with a great network of friends here and we try to get together or travel whenever possible.