Hello, I’m thrilled to share my journey with you, a journey that has been deeply intertwined with the transformative power of yoga.
The Beginning: My love for yoga began in Shenzhen, China in 2013. What started as a simple step into a yoga class evolved into a profound self-discovery and healing. I had no idea then that this path would become my life’s calling.
Guidance and Purpose: Along this journey, I was fortunate to have a wise mentor named Shiyi. He recognized in me the potential to teach yoga, and his teachings have shaped my approach to yoga instruction. Though our time together was brief, Shiyi instilled in me values, such as strength, courage, and the art of wholehearted teaching. With his guidance, I embarked on a mission—a mission to share the incredible benefits of yoga with the world.
Challenges and Growth: As with any meaningful journey, challenges arose. Yet, armed with the wisdom I had acquired, I navigated these obstacles with determination and resilience. My pursuit of knowledge and self-awareness led me to explore various avenues of healing, both for my body and mind. I recognized that to be an effective yoga teacher, I needed to cultivate wellness within myself.
Deepening Knowledge: In 2019, I took a significant step in my yoga journey by enrolling in a 500-hour yoga teacher training program at the renowned Naada Yoga studio, Montreal, Canada. This immersive experience expanded my understanding of yoga in ways I couldn’t have imagined. The courses covered a wide range of subjects, from mastering asanas to exploring the depths of meditation, understanding anatomy, practicing pranayama, and diving into the profound realm of yoga philosophy and chanting. It was during this training that I realized yoga goes beyond the physical—it’s a holistic way of life.
Pregnancy and early motherhood: Bringing a beautiful baby girl into the world after completing my teacher training courses profoundly altered my perception. Motherhood revealed to me the remarkable strength and endurance required, as I embarked on a journey of healing from the physical tolls of pregnancy, a challenging birthing experience, and postpartum hurdles. Through these transformative moments, I gained a profound perspective on yoga practice. These life-changing moments have deepened my commitment to sharing yoga as a means of recovery, self-care, and reconnection. It’s not just about postures and breath; it’s about understanding the incredible resilience and strength of the human body and spirit.
Yoga Beyond the Mat: My journey has shown me that yoga is not confined to the mat; it extends into every aspect of life. It’s a way of being that encourages us to live with inner peace and contentment, not just in our bodies but also in our minds. Through mindful asanas, the tranquility of meditation, and the wisdom of yoga philosophy, we unlock the doors to self-awareness. Yoga becomes a constant reminder of the significance of each moment, infusing every experience with joy and meaning.
Sharing the Journey: Today, as a yoga teacher, I carry the essence of my journey into every class. I invite you to join me on this voyage of self-discovery and renewal. Let’s explore the profound dimensions of yoga together, moving beyond physical boundaries to nurture the beautiful connection between body and mind. Together, we’ll embark on the path of yoga—a journey that encourages us to embrace life with contentment, authenticity, and hearts filled with joy.
With Love and Gratitude,
Anna Chen
