YOGI OF THE MONTH

November 2023 - Lynne Haynie 

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

I was at the party where a group of women, including me, convinced Susan to start a yoga class in Reedville. That was about a year and a half ago, and I’ve been practicing ever since.

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

I’ve always been actively involved in sports and exercise, from team sports in my youth to aerobics and running as a younger adult. My aging joints can’t handle all of that, so I walk regularly now. I began practicing yoga to maintain/increase flexibility, but I’ve been amazed by how much strength I’ve built as well!

What is your favorite pose and why?

My favorite poses are the warrior poses. They just make me feel strong and then remind me to be humble. Strength and humility—worthy qualities to take off the mat and into daily life.

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

Slow Flow in Reedville 

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

Practicing yoga reinforces the importance of slowing down, breathing, connecting with and listening to my body. Yoga says, “be flexible, take rest.” Doing those things on the mat helps me to remember that it’s okay to do them off the mat and into daily life.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Some days listening and following directions is harder than it is on other days. Forgive yourself and keep going. A fellow yogi will help you remember your left and right and remind you how to do a pose.

What is your occupation?

I’m a semi-retired public school educator. I was a middle school teacher and an elementary school counselor, and now I work part-time at a local Christian pre-school.

What activities do you enjoy?

So many activities . . . kayaking, gardening, playing pickleball with my family, traveling with my husband, hiking, cooking, participating in book clubs and Bible studies, tending to my chicken flock, fishing, snow skiing, talking to my dog, drinking coffee and watching the sun rise over the Bay.

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

The Northern Neck has always been my home. I love the creeks, rivers, Bay, and the surrounding natural resources and wildlife. I’m grateful that my two children have chosen to live here as well.

Is there anything you want to add?

I think it would be fun to attend a yoga retreat – at Camp Kekoka or somewhere abroad!