5Q Interview @MoniqueSaundersYoga

1. What does yoga mean to you?

Yoga is my moving meditation. A time for me to go inside and be one with everything that I am….after years of holding my cards too close to my heart, yoga gave me permission to open my heart and be receptive to all that life has to offer. To understand that life is a journey of experiences, ones that can be fleeting or filled with great joy. But each experience is an opportunity to grow, learn and become stronger than the moment before. “Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” ~The Bhagavad Gita

2. When did you first begin teaching yoga? What made you transition into a leadership position?

I began teaching 10 years ago for Yoga Tropics. Having been a school teacher for 17 years prior, the transition into teaching yoga was seamless. The only difference being that now I would be guiding all levels, all kinds of people rather than the 10 and 11 year olds I had been teaching writing, reading and math too:) I have always been passionate about teaching and fitness. Both are a huge part of who I am. The transition was very natural and if the universe opened the doors up for me to unite both together.

3. What makes your classes unique?

I am very passionate and creative with each and every class that I teach. My flows are unique in style and are appropriate for all levels. I provide each of my students with an environment where they feel safe, loved and have the freedom to express themselves in their way. I work to create a special connection with my students; by touch, knowing them by name or encouraging them to be the best version of themselves that they can be. My gift is to inspire, not intimidate. To encourage and promote an opportunity for my students to grow and learn about themselves through this journey of life. Yoga being the platform to connect mind, body, and spirit.

4. How does music benefit your guidance in a yoga class?

Music adds flavor, texture, and energy to my classes. Depending on the type of class I am going to teach will dictate the type of music I draw from. Music should be sound that my students can get lost and absorbed in. Music, breath put to flow is time to journey inward.

5. Tell me about your next event and where we can follow you online.

At the current moment, I do not have new events. We will begin our 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training Intensive in July and you can follow us at @playcarlsbad

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