When we met BrieLynn last August, just after she moved to Ithaca from Wisconsin, we knew we had a rock star yogini in our midst. BrieLynn immediately showed some mighty amazing enthusiasm when she helped us kick off our 3rd anniversary (we lost count of how many trips to Wegman’s she made). Months later she awesomely took on the role of studio manager, and now, she’s drinking the rest of the mighty kool-aid by donning the teacher hat. She recently completed her first immersion with Heather’s teachers Sean and Karen Connelly of Amazing Yoga, and we couldn’t be more excited that she’s teaching here at Mighty. If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Ms. BrieLynn, here’s your chance to get to know why her friends call her The Briest! Meet her in person in class on Tuesdays now and Saturdays in the fall.
How did you come to yoga?
Growing up I was very active. I played college tennis, downhill ski-raced, and danced ballet so I was always “working out” with a team. After graduating, I yearned for a group exercise routine. One day after a weightlifting class at the gym, a yoga class was offered. I had an extra hour so I gave it a shot and became a weekly regular. The gym had closed for a few weeks for the holidays and my body craved yoga. I went to a local studio and fell in love with the atmosphere, the people, and the classes. After my trial two weeks (which is all I planned on doing while the gym was closed) I became an unlimited monthly member and started an almost daily practice. Being part of a community really drew me into the yoga practice. I didn't know anyone at the studio when I first arrived, but I knew I was with a group of people I trusted.
What do you like about Power Yoga?
Power Yoga allows me to find the perfect balance between moving, sweating, and breathing and has allowed me to step onto a path of an incredible journey.
How has your yoga changed since the first time you practiced?
At the beginning of my practice I loved power yoga because I was able to sweat (a lot!) while I felt like I was dancing on my mat. After a relatively short amount of time, yoga became, for the first time in my life, a time where I started to listen to my body and my mind. When I listen to my body, I am able to push a little harder or hold back depending on my breath. It’s incredible how my yoga practice has guided me with a calming clarity and acceptance on my mat as well as in my day to day activities. Yoga has taught me that I can’t control the situations but I can control how I react to them. Lately, I’ve shocked myself with how graceful I’ve reacted to what would be stressful, or intimidating situations. Yeah Yoga! :)
Why did you decide to teach yoga?
Every yoga teacher I’ve practiced with has helped me to uncover a better me. I would love to give back and facilitate in the shedding of the unneeded layers others are carrying around.
Any tips for someone new to yoga?
Yoga is called a practice. It’s not called Yoga Perfect. Honor what your body can do, not what you think it should look like...or what the person next to you looks like.
What is your favorite pose or poses? Why?
I love, love, LOVE tree pose. At the beginning of my practice it reminded me of a ballet position called Passé. Now I love it because I feel every tiny movement my body needs to make to be grounded and lifted at the same time. I also smile when I get to “grow my branches” it’s such a funny saying and reminds me not to be too serious.
What do you like to do off the yoga mat?
I’m still pretty new to the Ithaca area so I’m enjoying exploring the Gorges and wineries with my husband, Rob. We have a Boston Terrier who provides us with an endless amount of entertainment. We love to ski in Vail, CO where my sister lives, travel to see family, and play just about any sport, but mostly tennis and golf. I do like running; though, I live on a busy road and am equally intimidated by the fast cars as are all the deer in the area!
What fuels you?
Positivity and excitement.
What makes you Mighty?
Smiling. (I also feel pretty Mighty when I can carry a whole bunch of groceries into the house in one trip.)
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