YOGI OF THE MONTH

August 2024 - Sarah McCarthy

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

I first began yoga in Reedville on Monday afternoons after my mother encouraged me to attend.! I have attended a yoga class here and there over the past few years, but never consistently until January of 2024.

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

I began yoga in my first trimester of pregnancy as I wanted a workout that would support my body in strengthening and stretching. I arrive at my mat every class with the intention to be the strongest and healthiest I can be for my growing family.  

What is your favorite pose and why? 

Utkatasana (chair pose) to Genie Out of the Bottle has been my favorite pose/transition! I’ve enjoyed challenging myself and improving my balance over the past few months. I’ve recognized such a big change in my balance and appreciate Susan’s encouragement and challenge.  

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

I’ve truly enjoyed the Slow Flow class in Reedville. I love how close it is to my home, and the people in the class are wonderful! It was also great to branch out and attend Yin Yang Flow on Saturday in White Stone!  

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

After every yoga class, I notice a change in my body, physically and mentally. I feel more relaxed, in tune, and rejuvenated. I find myself talking to people more often about yoga, and I even downloaded an app to practice yoga outside of our weekly classes.  

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Just start! I was apprehensive about yoga at first and questioned if it would be beneficial for me. I wondered if I would even feel a difference and, very incorrectly, assumed it was easy. I grew up as an athlete and had the idea that effective workouts had to include weights, cardio, or HIIT. I was COMPLETELY wrong! 

What is your occupation?

I’m currently a licensed professional mental health counselor (LPC) with Chesapeake Counseling, PC in Gloucester. After the birth of my son and time off for maternity leave, I’ll be starting my own private practice in Kilmarnock! Pearl Counseling, LLC will begin accepting clients in late October/early November!!  

What activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy thrifting, walking my two labrador retrievers, spending time with my family, drinking a good glass of wine with my friends, and listening to audiobooks. 

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

I love living in the NNK for several reasons, but most importantly because this is where ‘my people’ are. Growing up in Reedville was special and a childhood like no other. I was fortunate enough to meet my husband in Reedville when he was living there for a summer back in 2017. We had our wedding years later in my parents’ backyard in Fleeton. I have a vivid memory of several of his college friends staring out at the Chesapeake Bay in awe and asking, “is this really where you grew up?” There are so many things in the NNK that we take for granted and shouldn’t.  

Is there anything you want to add?

I want to thank Susan for making yoga a safe place to explore and challenge my body. She is a perfect mix of comfort and challenge!