Total Body Yoga Teachers
Andrea Harris R.Y.T
I have been blessed with so many amazing things in my life that I don’t even know where to start! First and foremost, I have 2 sets (yes….2!) of beautiful identical twin girls, ages 13 and 3. They consume a large part of myself and my time, but through the teachings of Yoga, I still allow myself to be “me”, follow my passions, and make myself a priority. I have a wonderful husband who, for whatever reason, doesn’t even flinch at the thought of living in a house with 5 ladies! A series of the crazy ups and downs of life are what brought me to Yoga, and I was a devoted student from day one. I could not get enough of the philosophy and the history. I actually read more than I practiced asana. Now I do both equally and love both equally. I fell into teaching 3 years ago (actually was pushed into). I was terrified, but immediately knew that I had found a place for me where I truly wanted to be. Loving my “job” for the first time in my life was a huge change for me, and I constantly strive to teach more and more. I love to spread all of the power, the fun, the freedom, and the sweetness of Yoga to as many who will listen. I truly hope to see you on the mat!
INTERVIEW WITH ANDREA
What brought you to Yoga?
Actually, a few things. I had a constant battle with depression and anxiety, starting at the age of 13. It ebbed and flowed all through my teen years and early 20’s, and the peaks of this disorder where very difficult to get through, even after trying medication. My best friend had taken up a Yoga practice a few years before me, and kept encouraging me to try it, saying it would help. It took a while, but I finally did figuring I had nothing to lose. I was right—I did nothing but gain from that point on. Also, as a fitness instructor, I was always curious about the physical benefits of Yoga, and after my own regular practicing I noticed changes in my body that had never happened through any other exercise. I was sold, hook, line, and sinker.
What element, quality, technique, do you find most fascinating and why?
I love the incorporation of breathe in any asana practice. As a beginner, that was the hardest thing for me to learn. As I continued to practice it got easier, and now it’s instinctive. It really makes since to have a union of the body and the breathe, since those are the 2 things that keep us alive! Breathing effectively on the mat teaches us how to use our breathe to benefit us off of the mat.
What is your favorite pose and why?
I would have to say Ardha Chandrasana (Half-Moon). My reason is not complex…it’s just so pretty to see a room full of people in it!
What other hobbies do you have?
I love to sing, play the piano, and listen to great music. I run, bike and hike. I play like a 3 year old, but I also really enjoy a glass of nice red wine.
Title of a book that you would recommend.
Wuthering Heights—I’m a sucker for tragic romance.
All time favorite movie.
I guess, ever since I was little till now, Dirty Dancing will always get me. More currently though, Once. It’s such a beautiful movie about passion and dreams and beating the odds.
What Are your Favorite Comfort foods.
I’m a sucker for potato chips and cheese.
Favorite color
Any shade of green
Place I’d like it visit
Sooooo many!! Ireland, Greece, India, Africa…….