YOGI OF THE MONTH

September 2015 - Jameson Crandall

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

I started practicing this past February after a friend from college recommended yoga for some discomfort I was having in my lower back. I had recently moved back to Kilmarnock after living in North Carolina, and I found the Inside Out Yoga website and gave it a try.

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

Originally it was only about my back. Now that I have been practicing regularly, I do it for the physical and mental benefits. I enjoy feeling taller and more limber, less worried and more open-minded.

What is your favorite pose and why?

I’m pretty sure its Warrior II. It does so many things at once. I like the way it opens my chest and stretches my shoulders and hips. It requires balance and strong legs. I like a lot of other poses too though.

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

I tend to stick to Slow Flow because it fits my schedule. I absolutely love it every Tuesday and I look forward to it all week. I’m comfortable in that class because I’ve just started my practice but I am ready to try the more advanced classes!

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

Yoga has improved my gym workouts, my horseback riding, my posture, and daily attitude. I never used to meditate or think things through when things got stressful. Now I remind myself that everything is going to be OK, and I breathe.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Give it a try. I contemplated trying a class for probably a year before I actually did it. Now I’m hooked and I wish I had done it earlier! And don’t be nervous. I have only encountered great, friendly people at IOY. 

What is your occupation?

I train horses and teach riding. I also do equine sales consulting and exercise riding. Horses are my passion and I went to school for Equine Studies. I also work a couple of days a week at Burke’s Fine Jewelers in Kilmarnock. I love both jobs.

What activities do you enjoy?

I love to ride horses and have ridden since I was 6 years old. I ride almost every day. I kayak some and I walk my dog on the beach a lot. I have a Weimaraner and an English Pointer that I do upland bird training and hunting with and enjoy participating in bird dog field trials. I tried stand up paddle boarding for the first time the other day and I’m pretty sure that will be a new hobby. If I am outdoors I am content.

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

There are so many awesome things about living here. The people are genuine and caring and there is a hometown feel that is so comforting. The landscape and geography are fascinating and I love exploring the different parks and beaches. There’s a lot of wildlife and plenty to do outside and on the water. Oh and the seafood!

Is there anything you want to add?

I certainly want to thank Susan and all of her students who I have met in class for being so incredibly welcoming and fun! And if you haven’t tried yoga but want to, check out IOY ASAP!