Meet Emma. When Emma is not on her mat being a Hall of Famer, she’s a school principal living the expat life in Abu Dhabi. Emma did the 30 day challenge for 3 months straight and is on her 4th. She is so dedicated to practice that she has done it from her home, office (after hours) and on the road while vacationing. With no surprise, she was able to accomplish many poses including crow.
Alex and Emma met at the old studio where Alex used to teach. When the world was closed down because of Covid-19, the MLPC was a great place for Emma to maintain her practice. When it officially established back in May 2020, she joined the challenge for the months of May, June, July and now August. She enjoys classes like Vinyasa flow, Power Vinyasa, and HIIT yoga.
Want to know more about Emma and her challenge experience? Well, you’re in luck as she agreed to answer the All-Stars questions...
Hi Emma! Tell us a little bit about yourself! Who is Emma?
Emma: I‘m Emma- Mum to 3 enormous and gorgeous boys and school Principal in Abu Dhabi. I’m turning 50 this year but I like to joke that I don’t act my age. But I really don’t. Being around children all day is a joy- they are disarmingly funny, kind and honest and I love my job. I’m originally from the UK but I’ve lived in Abu Dhabi with my family for 12 years. I’m always busy doing something and feel uneasy if I haven’t got a craft project or some sort of plan underway. We love getting outdoors as much as possible- cycling, camping- being outside in nature is magical.
What inspired you to start practicing yoga?
Emma: For a number of years it has been part of my fitness programme, together with pilates and boxing. There was a class I used to attend on a Sunday evening and it really helped me wash the day away- I always slept like a baby on a Sunday night. I love the way yoga has made me stronger in such a gentle way.
Have you ever had any experience with yoga before joining the MLPC?
Emma: Yes- I used to attend a weekly class, but since undertaking the challenges my strength and postures have improved dramatically.
What’s your connection to the MLPC?
Emma: I have known Alex as my yoga instructor in Abu Dhabi for over a year; when she talked about setting up a virtual online yoga studio I was delighted! She is so open to new ideas and really takes feedback on board.
How did you end up being so committed to yoga?
Emma: It was after I saw the April challengers succeed- I had done many of the classes, but felt that the 30 day yoga challenge was beyond me. But then I thought that there was really no better time than during lockdown, and I could fit the classes easily into my schedule. I wanted to get stronger- and I have!
"I love the way yoga has made me stronger in such a gentle way."
Emma
Did you face any challenges during the month of August so far?
Emma: Now we are not so much in lockdown I’m finding it harder to get to the live classes as I’m out and about! But I’m learning to bring my iPad and headphones everywhere with me- I did a class from a hotel yoga studio last week! And I love the archives for those days when I’m just flying around.
What are the biggest benefits you’ve reaped from your yoga practice?
Emma: I feel stronger, calmer, and there have been many challenging conundrums that have consumed my day put in their place on my yoga mat. I find my yoga practice very grounding. Sometimes it’s really not what I want to do, but it’s always what I need.
What’s your favorite posture?
Emma: I love chaturanga now, as I can do it without my knees flopping on the floor! Wild thing too!
What’s your most difficult posture?
Emma: I’m still trying to master the crow for longer than a millisecond!
What is your favorite type(s) of yoga? And why?
Emma: I love vinyasa- the movement suits me- and the flow is grounding. HIIT yoga is a new phenomenon I’m loving too!
Any words of wisdom to those just starting out?
Emma: Buy a beautiful mat and you will feel like you are being good to yourself every time you are on it. And you are being good to yourself when you practice yoga.
Thank you Emma for your great answers and good luck with your challenge!! Make sure to leave a comment if you liked this interview.
Until next time, may you all be safe, happy, healthy, and free.
Yasir
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