YOGI OF THE MONTH

November 2022 - Kati Rose

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

A love of movement and an interest in the melding of mind/body/soul. Yoga and I have a 14 year relationship with many ups and downs. At 18, I was searching for meaning in all things (properly floating though life). Yoga was my first life ring line. 

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

Yoga is a religion for me. It is a physical act of gratitude. The practice gives me a consistent space to cultivate my higher self and reminds me just how connected all things are.

What is your favorite pose and why?

The backwards roll of Chakrasana.  About 8 years ago, I discovered Ayurveda medicine in hopes to better understand my natural disposition beyond astrology. Upon introspection, I realized I had traces of all three doshas*. This pose helps cool the natural hot tendency of pita, supports spinal and thyroid health for kapha, and builds inner balance for vatta.

*Vatta, kapha and pita are the three classifications of dosha. Doshas shape the physical body according to a natural constitution established at birth, determined by the constitution of your parents and the time of conception. In short, it is your mind/body type.

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

Vinyasa Flow. I love to sweat and work with my breath.

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

Yoga ushered my spiritual awakening. I am forever grateful for the paths illuminated by it. 

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Practice your sun salutations daily. Preferably, outside and in the direction of the sun. Learn them and play with them. (There are three versions. My favorite is Surya Namaskara:)

What is your occupation?

Restaurant owner….. hence searching for balance.

What activities do you enjoy?

Yoga, watching the tops of trees while running/walking, paddle boarding and spending time with myself.

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

I have roots that run deep here. There is a certain comfort that I ran from as a youth and reached for as a young parent. My heart’s favorite things are the crystal clear water & iridescent night sky of the winter and the freedom offered by our tranquil waterways. 

Is there anything you want to add?

René Descartes did us an unintentional disservice by circulating “I think, therefore I am.”

Rather than separating ourselves into an “I,” it’s more beneficial to realize our interconnected prowess with the statement “You are the Universe.” A simple shift in pronoun allows me to connect to the divine unconscious seamlessly.

My soul’s mantra during this lifetime is:

“You are not meant to suffer. You are divine.”

We can overcome all things when reminded of this simple fact.