Ashley Marie Smouse

My path to finding mind body wellness was not an easy one. Growing up in a highly competitive family, I was expected to compete in a competitive sport and I did. For seven years I played competitive volleyball, which left me with horrible knees and two injured rotator cuffs. I also suffered with severe self confidence issues and eating disorders. Finally, during my junior year of high school I found yoga. I loved how the practice was centered around healing and listening to our bodies, instead of putting stress on it and tearing it down. I mostly started yoga as a form of fitness, to help rebuild my damaged body. Then I discovered the other benefits of practicing. Not only did my body heal, but so did my soul. The mindful practice and meditation helped fight the depression and insecurities I had about myself. In addition, when ever I learned a new challenging pose, my strength and confidence grew. In 2014, I decided I wanted to share the joy I have and became a Yoga teacher. It has been so rewarding thus far and I truly feel that I continue to grow as I teach others. I feel that it doesn’t matter what the reasons are a person wants to practice yoga, because yoga benefits a practitioner in many ways.

I enjoy many outdoor activities including camping, paddle boarding, canoeing and hiking, especially Arches National Park. During my free time I try to deepen my own personal yoga practice and have taken an interest in the Ashtanga branch of physical yoga. I play two instruments, the flute and the electric guitar. Although, I must confess that the electric guitar is my favorite and I love playing ACDC. I am married to a wonderful man who encourages me to be my best everyday.