MEET THE TEACHER ANA MIRANDA
How did you first discover yoga, and what inspired you to become a yoga teacher?
Ana: I discovered yoga in early 2000s. I was in my mid-twenties, a foreign student from Portugal, fresh out of university, who had just landed a dream job in London's bustling financial district. The excitement of this high-stakes environment initially fascinated me – the adrenaline of daily trading was a rush like no other. But as the weeks turned into months, months into years, the thrill began to wear thin. The constant pressure, looming deadlines, and a ceaseless stream of company meetings slowly chipped away at my enthusiasm. I started feeling like something essential was missing – a sense of balance, a refuge from the relentless demands.
That's when, one fateful day I stumbled upon a yoga class. Walking into that studio, which was simply a basement in a nondescript building block, felt like a departure from the chaos of the city into a tranquil sanctuary. There were no neon signs or grand entrances; just a humble space where yoga enthusiasts gathered to find solace. In those early 2000s, yoga wasn't popularized like it is today. It was a hidden gem. My initial attraction to yoga was primarily physical. The practice provided much-needed relief from the tension and stress that had accumulated in my body. It allowed me to stretch, breathe deeply, and find moments of stillness that were sorely lacking in my hectic life.
However, over time, something profound happened. Yoga's spiritual and emotional dimensions began to captivate me. It was no longer just about the physical postures; it was about the mental clarity and emotional resilience it bestowed upon me. Yoga became a sanctuary where I could regain my composure amidst the turbulence of my job and daily life. The perfect antidote to a busy life!
In 2006, I eagerly signed up for a yoga foundation course offered by the British Wheel of Yoga. I was enthusiastic about the prospect of discovering whether teaching yoga might be my true calling. During the course, I vividly recall the teacher's comments in my feedback form at the end – they said, "You will make a great teacher if you let her come out." However, it would take over a decade for that true calling and inner voice to gain strength. Over those intervening years, life continued its relentless march forward. Motherhood also became a significant chapter in my life, bringing immeasurable joy and a new set of responsibilities. Yet, the idea of becoming a yoga teacher, which had been quietly brewing within me, persisted like a gentle whisper in the background. It was a dream that patiently waited its turn amidst the ebb and flow of life's demands.
Then, one day, during a heartfelt conversation with a close friend, the embers of that long-dormant aspiration began to glow anew. It was as if the universe was gently nudging me to revisit that cherished dream. In that very instant, I made a decision – a conscious choice not to let this opportunity slip through my fingers. The allure of embarking on the path of a yoga teacher, of sharing the profound and transformative gift of yoga with others, ignited a spark of purpose within me. It was a decision rooted in courage, a commitment to seize the moment, and an unwavering belief in the power of yoga to inspire, heal, and connect.
So, more than a decade after that initial spark of inspiration, I took the plunge and embarked on the path of a yoga teacher, ready to share the incredible gift of yoga with others and to champion representation and inclusivity in the yoga community. It was a journey shaped by the passage of time, life's changes, moments of reflection, and the unwavering belief that our true callings have their own timing.
What do you enjoy most about teaching yoga to others?
Ana: What I enjoy most about teaching yoga to others is the privilege of guiding others on a journey of self-discovery, wellness, and transformation. My classes are deeply rooted in practical philosophy that transcends the mat. For me, yoga goes beyond the physical postures; it's a philosophy that weaves into our everyday existence. I truly enjoy sharing timeless yogic wisdom and insights that can be translated into practical, real-life scenarios in our fast-paced, modern world. The physical practice, in a way, acts as a microcosm for the genuine essence of yoga – the yoga that unfolds beyond the mat, guiding us in our journey through life.
Whether it's teaching students about mindfulness in stressful moments or encouraging them to cultivate balance in their busy lives, these philosophical teachings resonate with the challenges they might face daily. It is this fusion of ancient wisdom with modern-day applicability all woven seamlessly into the physical practice, that I enjoy the most about teaching yoga. It's about bridging the wisdom of the past with the demands and aspirations of the present, creating a holistic and transformative experience that extends far beyond the confines of the yoga mat.
How do you balance your own yoga practice with teaching and other responsibilities?
Ana: Balancing a full-on city job, teaching, practicing yoga, and handling family duties may seem like a big task, but it's totally doable with some thoughtful planning and wholehearted commitment. But let me spill the beans – none of this would be as manageable if I didn't have my amazing family by my side, especially my partner. Their unwavering support is the secret sauce that keeps everything running smoothly.
When it comes to balancing my own self-practice with teaching yoga, well my self-practice is non-negotiable for me. It's not just about physical postures but also about the mental and emotional benefits that yoga offers. I carve out time each day to step onto my mat, whether it's for a full practice or a shorter, mindful session. This commitment ensures that I stay grounded and connected to the essence of yoga. Also, to enrich my personal practice and teaching, I continue to be a student myself. I have a dedicated Ashtanga yoga teacher with whom I practice and learn from on a weekly basis. This not only allows me to deepen my understanding of this specific style but also emphasizes the importance of being a lifelong learner. It's a humbling experience to be on the student's side, learning from someone else's guidance.
Balancing work and family responsibilities, in my view, revolves around setting distinct boundaries for my different roles. During work hours, my focus is solely on work tasks. When spending time with my family, I ensure I am fully present in the moment. And when I'm either teaching yoga or immersed in my own practice, I commit wholeheartedly to that experience.
What are some common misconceptions about yoga that you'd like to dispel?
Ana: In the world of yoga, there are numerous myths and misconceptions. However, one particular notion hits close to home for me, and that's the issue of representation, especially as a Black woman. The idea that yoga belongs to a certain demographics couldn’t be further from the truth, yet it exists.
When I first ventured into the world of yoga back in 2000s, I couldn't help but notice the underrepresentation of black women. I looked around the classes, and I often found myself as the only person who looked like me. Back then it dawned on me that representation was vital, especially in a practice as inclusive and transformative as yoga. I realized that by becoming a yoga teacher, I could help bridge this gap and make yoga accessible and relatable to everyone.
Representation in yoga is not just about seeing someone who looks like you on a yoga mat; it's about recognising that you, too, can embrace this practice, regardless of your background. Thankfully the tide is changing thanks to studios like Croydon Yoga Hub. Witnessing Black women not only thrive as yoga practitioners but also rise as accomplished yoga instructors are slowly shattering the misconception that yoga is exclusive to any particular group. It makes me realise that my presence, as a black woman, is not only welcomed but celebrated.
One of the aspects I truly love about teaching at Croydon Yoga Hub is its rich diversity. The yoga community thrives when it's a tapestry of different voices, experiences, and backgrounds coming together. At the studio, teachers, students, and the entire community represent a beautiful mosaic of diversity. When individuals from various walks of life practice and instruct yoga, they bring with them unique perspectives, insights, and stories that enrich the practice.
This diversity isn't just a buzzword; it's the essence of what makes yoga vibrant and all-embracing. It's like a symphony where each instrument, though different, contributes to the harmonious melody of yoga. In summary, the message is clear - yoga is for everyone, and diversity is not just welcomed; it's celebrated. So, let's keep breaking stereotypes and misconceptions, celebrating diversity, and making yoga accessible to all. Because when we unite in our differences, we find unity in our practice. Namaste!
Thank you Ana!