CSY Community: Introducing Louise Maher

How did you discover yoga and how long have you been practicing?

I was living on a typical diet of today’s world ~ sitting behind a desk, working on a computer & sitting in commuter traffic. A “knowing” within and how I felt both physically and mentally, let me know loud & clear that I needed to move.  This set me on a mission to find some form of movement and on the way I discovered a copy of Yoga Journal magazine.  This looked very appealing.  I found a place to participate in yoga classes ~ this was in 1999 and I’ve never looked back.

Why do you continue to practice yoga?

I continue to practice as I love the way I feel ~ calm, energized, completely alive and able to move with a real sense of freedom.

How has your yoga practice shaped or affected your life?

Yoga has shaped and affected my life in many positive ways ~ I have made it one of my priorities ~ and I set aside time to participate in classes three times a week.  I feel the consistent commitment keeps me in a calmer, more relaxed and flexible state ~ much more equipped to handle the stresses of everyday life. For me, it has become a time to dedicate to self-nurturing and care and I truly believe it is an investment in my health and well-being.

 What keeps bringing you back to your mat?

What I love about my yoga practice and what keeps me coming back to the mat, is that I feel rested & relaxed yet energized and alive.  I appreciate having developed a solid body awareness knowing where I need to do the work or where the work has been effective.

 What is the greatest challenge that you face when you are on your mat?

The greatest challenge I face is in learning to let go of the day’s activities, slow down my racing mind and become fully present to being at the studio, on my mat.

 What is the greatest teaching that you have received as a result of your yoga practice?

The greatest teaching has been the undeniable connection of the mind and body.  If I have had a busy day and pushed myself to keep on top of things, then I usually find my body is also pushing ~ needless to say, I feel frayed around the edges in my mind and my body is in the same frayed place.  On the other hand, when I begin to let go of the day & relax my mind, my body also begins to relax.

 How does your yoga practice change from day to day or year to year?

My yoga practice changes day-to-day simply by becoming aware of where I am that day; accepting that, honouring that and doing the work from that place.  I think the key is accepting rather than resisting and pushing, as that uses up energy and does not allow me to stay in a quiet place.

Year-to-year ~ yoga has brought “quality” to my life with a great sense of overall well-being that is quite amazing.  My body and mind are both stronger and more flexible and over time, as I rid myself of the day-to-day tensions and old baggage, there is more room for my spirit to emerge, come alive and be expressed.   I find as I let go of the clutter in my mind and body I am also clearing out the clutter in my living and working environments ~ there is so much more room to think, to create, to be productive and to live fully. I have also developed a strong craving for stillness and quiet and through this, I have access to internal knowing and wisdom ~ so my life becomes much more thoughtfully directed.

 Why do you practice at Creating Space Yoga Studio?

Why I practice at Creating Space studio ~  I love the tranquillity and serenity of the studio and the style of yoga that is taught ~ slow, deep and mindful.  I deeply appreciate the energy, expertise and caring manner of all the teachers and I thoroughly enjoy the warmth and laughter of fellow yoga students.  Also, the ongoing learning provided in the workshops and lectures and the walking group are great ~ they complement and enhance the yoga classes and the instructors of these sessions are all very knowledgeable and enjoyable.

 What is your favourite yoga asana/pose and why?

My favourite pose ~ the twists ~ they feel so wonderful ~ wringing out the anxiety and tensions of the day.  I feel released ~ like I’ve let go of a burden and there is such freedom ~ literally “creating space”.