Natalie Fortwangler

Why Yoga?

Yoga found me in 2000 when I picked up Denise Austin’s “21 Days to a Yoga Body” tape.  As I started to practice with the DVD’s, I noticed a sense of calm that I had never experienced before.  I had an on-again-off-again relationship with yoga until I stepped foot into a heated studio.  Sitting on my mat before class, all I could think was “How am I supposed to practice in here when it is so hot I feel like I am suffocating??”  Thankfully, I didn’t suffocate.  Instead I fell in love with the practice.  My heart was pounding, my muscles were burning but I felt great.  I left that class feeling energized like never before!

I continue to practice yoga so that I am mentally, physically and emotionally able to deal with whatever curve balls life may throw at me.  Focusing on only my breath during practice allows my mind to quiet and I am able to check in with my body and sprit to see where I am today.  Each day is different in so many ways and I love it!!  Yoga allows me to bring a sense of patience and acceptance out of the studio and into the rest of my life “off the mat”.  I teach yoga because I want to share this practice with everyone!

Favorite Pose

Wild Thing – Every time this posture is cued, I smile!  As one hand presses against the earth and I look up at my raised hand, I feel a sense of freedom, ease and joy bubbling up from the pit of my belly! 

Training

I completed my 200 hour training in the spring of 2012.  I have attended workshops with Gregor Singleton, Claire Este McDonald & Bryan Kest.  I continue to learn from other teachers and students on a daily basis. 

Additionally, I am an avid reader.  I continually read books to deepn my knowledge on yoga philosophy, anatomy and sequencing.