YOGI OF THE MONTH

May 2015 - Cherie Kazenske (with her husband, Kaz, and their grandchildren)

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

After I retired I wanted to expand my activities and decided to begin a regular yoga practice.   I had been taking ballet for many years and thought yoga would be a nice supplement.   I have been practicing at Insideout Yoga with Susan for the past 2 years.  Prior to that time I had taken a few classes in Northern Virginia but not on a regular basis.

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

My intentions in my practice are to work on improving strength and to continue poses that enhance flexibility and balance, and improve alignment.  I particularly like that Susan focuses a lot on alignment in the classes that she teaches.  Also, I seek the calmness that the practice brings.

What is your favorite pose and why?

It is difficult to decide on any one pose, but right now I would say that the Half Moon pose is my favorite.  It is very challenging.  The pose provides a feeling of being suspended in the air and is an ever expanding pose. 

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

I usually attend Steady Flow but also enjoy Power Flow.  I enjoy the more challenging classes although every yoga class can be challenging in different ways.

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

I have definitely noticed increased strength.  Also, I use to have tension in my neck and shoulders that has now disappeared.  I continue to use yoga to help me stay in the present.  From all my years at work I developed the habit of always looking to the future.  I am now trying to stay more in the present.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Keep with it.  You will see results and improvements.  One of the most important things to do is to remember to breathe.

What is your occupation?

I am a retired from the federal government.  I worked at the Patent and Trademark Office for 32 years.  The majority of my career was spent in the International Affairs area of the agency.

What activities do you enjoy?

Besides yoga, I enjoy ballet, cycling, golfing, tropical gardening, travelling, and activities on the water.

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

I enjoy the beauty and serenity of living on my own private beach and on the Chesapeake Bay. I believe it is difficult to find a location similar to this one anywhere else.  Also, I am fortunate to have a close knit neighborhood.   

My husband and I have lived here full time for 5 years, after moving from Northern Virginia, and I am still amazed by how frequently I run into people I know virtually everywhere I go on the lower Northern Neck.  That rarely happened to me while I lived in Northern Virginia. 

Is there anything you want to add?

I love your classes, Susan.  You are the best!