Student Feature: Anna Eley

Anna started attending classes here in 2012. As of writing this, she has attended 702 classes here. We have seen her grow tremendously in her yoga practice and have been also lucky enough to have gotten to know her personally over the years. She is not only an amazing student of yoga, but also an amazing human being and we are so grateful everyday that we get to call her our friend.

Here’s a bit more about Anna:

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Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI.

Sign: Sagittarius

Favorite Color: mustard yellow

Favorite Movie: Back to the Future

What would your last meal be?

chicken thighs with lots of garlic and onion, sweet potatoes and kale and I giant bowl of ice cream with almond butter and dark chocolate

What brought you to yoga?

i was interested in trying something new and staying healthy during the winter when i'm not as active outside

What brought you to TULA?

i wanted to support a local business and after i took my first class i immediately felt at home at Tula- being new to yoga i was nervous to try it but everyone was so inclusive and welcoming.

What is your favorite yoga pose (and why)?

pigeon pose is my favorite, i tend to have tight hips from biking and pigeon always feels so good (especially if the teacher gives an adjustment- that's the best!)

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What are the benefits you have experienced from a regular yoga practice?

i feel more balanced overall. yoga has taught me to be more patient with myself. i've also built a lot of strength and flexibility over time and the breath work has benefited me a lot in all areas of my life both physically and emotionally- it's pretty great!

What is your Least favorite pose (and why)?

i hate back bends and i hate camel the most. not sure why, it just doesn't feel good and makes me anxious

What advice you would give someone just starting yoga?

be patient with yourself, there's no hurry. find teachers and times of day that you feel comfortable with. yoga is challenging in many ways so know that you are challenging yourself but it is worth the work. i always feel better in all areas of my life when i am practicing regularly.

What is your favorite after-yoga activity?

i am an early morning yoga person so i like to come home and have coffee and oatmeal after class

List 3 fun facts we don’t know about you:

1. i am a proud 4 season chicago biker

2. i love doing jigsaw puzzles

3. one of my life goals is to visit every National Park in the U.S.