5Q Interview @SaraMartinThomas
1. Tell me about your personal journey with yoga. Why is it important to you?
My yoga journey began in 2005. I was a personal trainer needing more physically and spiritually. A friend introduced me to Bikram Yoga. I fell in love w/ how the practice made me feel physically and emotionally. I wanted more. Then my same friend introduced me to Core Power Yoga. I fell in love w/ the style of breath w/ movement, MUSIC, & the community. Teaching and taking yoga is my therapy, my church, my physical workout, my time w/ community.
2. When did you first begin teaching yoga? What made you transition into a leadership position?
I signed up for a Power Vinyasa 200hr teacher training at CPY PL in 2006. I was hired to teach after. I loved it so much I wanted to be a part of everything. I was asked to assist in Teacher Trainings in 2007 which lead to Co-leading the Vinyasa trainings at CPY in PL until 2008. I helped put together and have Co-Lead the 200hr Vinyasa Training at Sculpt Fusion Yoga since 2009.
3. What makes your classes unique?
I am very passionate about all aspects of my classes. Depending on the time of day the lighting is important. MUSIC, I love playing DJ. I love making playlists. I have a degree in Kinesiology. I am aware of alignment and always conscious of balance and flow in class w/ counter poses. I keep it light and fun. I like to make people laugh. I always end class w/ a quote or two that resonates w/ me knowing it will resonate w/ others because we are all the same at the core!
4. How does music benefit your guidance in a yoga class?
Music is everything in class! I put as much time into thinking about the sequence of my class as I do the playlist. The right music can make or break a class. I try to put a little bit of every genre on a playlist. Paying attention to who’s feeling what in class from their movements and facial expressions. Asking my students what they want to hear. Sometimes I will literally add a song to my playlist in the middle of class!
5. Tell me about your next event and where we can follow you online.
I teach mainly at Sculpt Fusion Yoga, two classes a week at Yoga Six in 4S Ranch, ResMed, for the Del Mar WaterPolo Club Team and the Cathedral Catholic HS Boys Varsity WaterPolo Team.
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