But HOW did I get here?

At the age of 20, I moved to Orlando, Florida to work at Walt Disney World.  I became a full-time Character Performer in 1990 and did that for a decade.  Competition was a way of life that wasn’t good for the body. I really had to work hard, often through serious injuries.  When I left there, to pursue other dreams (that I knew existed but hadn’t yet figured out) I was in constant pain. 

I had two herniated disks, one in my neck the other in my lower back, shredded hamstring muscles, the ball at the top of my spine had pulled out from the back of my skull from muscles strain and my hearing had been affected by the neck muscles being excessively taunt from misuse.  I am not a fan of pharmaceuticals (muscle relaxers, pain medications) that only mask or temporarily relieve the symptoms.  I wanted to ‘cure’ my problems instead of masking.

From nearly two years my only physical activity was riding my beach comber bicycle.  I had decided from my constant headaches and pain that my body must need the rest.  I did try a yoga class at a gym and didn’t really get it.  I didn’t connect to the teacher.  That didn’t stop me.  I had cut out a business opening announcement from the newspaper for a Yoga studio close to my work.  Eight months later I found the announcement in my day planner and decided to call.  They were giving free sample classes that week and I could come the next evening to try it, free!  I was hooked!

Just like everyone, the changes were gradual and somewhat slow, but I felt better every time I left there.  Not just physically, but emotionally too!  I felt as though I had found my place and (finally) my dream.  Don’t think it was just a miracle; you can do it too. 

I am not completely perfect, but no one is and I know that I can continue to grow and improve everyday.  I also found that Kulas (communities of hearts) that do Yoga are loving and open people that only want to leave the world better than they found it.  I know I am home anywhere I find a Yoga studio.  So, why not create a home for more people to inhabit?  I hope that you find a Kula you feel at home with, whether you enjoy my teaching style or not.  I encourage you to keep looking and never give up on your Self.

Light & Love,

Amanda