Leah took her first class at TULA back in 2013 and over the years, it has been such a great pleasure to get to know her better. She is strong, beautiful, and most of all, just a lovely human to be around. She has supported the studio and our community continuously and we consider her not just a customer or student, but also, our dear friend. She commented to me once that she doesn’t get how any one can get through life’s challenges without doing yoga…… this is when I knew that she really understood that yoga was not just a physical work-out, but so much more! AND I agree, Leah, I don’t get it either :)
If you haven’t met her yet, she is pretty much a staple at our Happy Hour Yoga class, Fridays at 6:30pm. Join us!
Here’s a bit more about Leah:
Hometown: Chicago
Sign: Aquarius
Favorite Color: Purple
Favorite Movie: I Can't name just one. Silence of the Lambs, The Matrix, Memento, Requiem for a Dream, Shawshank Redemption, anything John Hughes...
What would your last meal be? As many carbs with cheese as possible. And warm brownies.
What brought you to yoga?
I started doing yoga in 1995 from a book by Richard Hittleman called Yoga 28 day exercise plan. It's from like 1969 and the pictures are hilarious if you look at it now. I was hooked on how it made me feel. This was before yoga was as accessible as it is now. Once studios started to open up, I took my practice there.
What brought you to TULA?
I've lived in Logan Square since 2008 and was SO excited when the studio opened up within walking distance! I love the community at Tula. I've made great friends and had many awesome experiences because of Tula.
What is your favorite yoga pose (and why)? All the forward folds. I love the full body stretch and how relaxed it makes me feel.
What are the benefits you have experienced from a regular yoga practice?
Beyond the physical benefits, yoga calms me and helps me focus on what's important. It resets my mind and allows me to slow down and live in the moment. My brain goes a million miles a minute but when I'm on my mat, I can be present.
What is your Least favorite pose (and why)?
Side plank because: upper arm strength is lacking. Probably means I need to do it more often.
What advice you would give someone just starting yoga?
I hear people say they aren't flexible enough to do yoga. Yoga is not about flexibility so don't let that deter you. But if that's your concern, your flexibility will naturally improve the more you practice.
What is your favorite after-yoga activity? Happy Hour!
List 3 fun facts we don’t know about you:
-I lived in Puerto Vallarta for a year.
-I'm a really good cook and love cooking for people.
-I'm a total Harry Potter nerd and I love Stephen King. That was four but oh well