Finding my yoga practice felt like coming home. I grew up a dancer, so my relationship with intentional, creative movement began very young. Then, in 2011, I had spinal fusion surgery to correct severe scoliosis. That surgery saved my life, but it also left me fused from T4-L1. I went from having a very flexible back to having extremely limited spinal mobility in one day.

As I adjusted to my new reality, I fell down a rabbit hole of overcompensating. I spent years in dance pushing myself to my limits, hurting my back in the process, just to blend in with everyone else. Then, in 2019, I took a vinyasa class that gave me a completely new love for mindful movement.

Yoga has given me a level of gratitude for my body that I’d spent a decade looking for. I may not be able to do backbends or twists, but my practice still feels whole.

This journey has given me so, so much compassion for my body and for other bodies, and it’s such a gift to share it with others.

Wherever you’re at, yoga has something to offer you. I hope to see you on your mat soon!