YOGI OF THE MONTH

September 2014 - Kae Kindle

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

After retiring in 2004, I began searching for strategies to “gear down” and to begin taking a calmer approach to life.  After trying out several exercise classes, I went to a yoga practice in 2006 at Morning Glory Gallery in Gloucester with my first Yogi, Nancy Wilson.  I was hooked after the first practice.  I have continued to practice yoga on a regular basis for the past eight years. 

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

Practicing yoga helps my mind to be “still”.  And while practicing this stillness, I can also “work out” physically.  I am a very active person and this “stillness” is helping me stay balanced and calmer in many areas of my life.

What is your favorite pose and why? 

I love a physical challenge….one that requires strength, balance, flexibility and coordination.  It is hard to pick one favorite, but I enjoy and am always challenged when doing half moon pose.  I also enjoy practicing sun salutations….I find that whenever I’ve been sitting for a long time, just completing one helps me work out the kinks.  I’ve been known to do sun salutations anywhere….in airports, on boats, in the yard, etc.

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

For many years, I believed that Power Yoga was my favorite and the best practice for me… and it is still a welcoming challenge when I have the energy and can attend.  Mostly, I enjoy the Steady Flow practice.  It has become the perfect practice for me as I age.  

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

I believe that I am able to take the “lessons on my mat” and apply them to my life.  For example, every day is not the same.  I have different energy every day, and I have learned that that’s okay.  I do the best I can do on my mat and each day in my life.  I have to say that it is Susan who has taught me this lesson and challenges all of her students with her reminders during each practice.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Yoga is truly an “individual sport” and a complete body and mind work out.  It is not a competition.  Give yourself permission to just “be” every time you step on your mat….no judgments. 

What is your occupation?

I am a retired educator.  I began teaching Health and Physical Education, became a school counselor, and spent my last years supervising school counselors in Henrico County Public Schools.

What activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy living on the water in Mathews County.  I love being on the water sailing, boating, kayaking, and paddling my new paddle board.  I also enjoy gardening, which also helps me “still” my mind.  In the winter months, I like to knit and watch a lot of TV.  I always love having dinner parties, being with friends, listening to bands and dancing.

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

The scenery is beautiful throughout the year.  I love the fact that there is little light and noise pollution.  I always have wanted to live in the woods on the water.  

Is there anything you want to add?

One of the best things about yoga is the people I have met while practicing.  I love the relationships that have developed and the sense of community that I feel.