YOGI OF THE MONTH

March 2021 - Carey Gaenzle

What first brought you to yoga and how long have you been practicing?

In the fall of 2000, I came down with BPPV or, more simply, positional vertigo. At the time, I was a practicing physical therapist with a specialty in upper extremity management, but I had learned about BPPV in school. So, I pulled out my grad school notes and attempted the recommended maneuvers on my own, but I was unsuccessful at curing my dizziness. Then I thought ,“what else can I try that will place my head in varied and sustained positions?” Yoga! I don’t know if it was yoga or the passage of time, but my vertigo eventually resolved. My love affair with yoga, however, has continued for more than 20 years.

What is/are your intention(s) for your yoga practice?

My intention is to quiet my mind enough to experience the peace and joy within.

What is your favorite pose and why?

Savasana. I just love that Savasana during Yoga Nidra can provide brief restorative rest and can also induce an entire night of sleep.

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

My favorite class with Susan is any class with Susan. She creates a safe, sacred space and radiates unconditional love, joy and kindness in her classes. You can just feel it.

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

My daily practice helps to tame mental wandering and keep me focused on the here and now: I find myself less concerned with the past or worried about the future. My yoga reminds me to always identify with my peace, my permanent state of happiness, versus the impermanence of the external world. Tapping into that peace is often just a practice away. Of course, asana, the physical practice, also helps to keep my joints supple and my muscles lengthened and strong! I’m also eternally grateful for the yoga communities I’ve had the good fortune of being a part of in VA, CT, NC and FL.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Yoga takes many shapes and forms in the modern world. As it was in the beginning, a safe and thoughtful practice requires the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher. Take it slow. Respect your body. Look around the room but don’t compare. We are all unique. And, know that it's called “a practice” for a reason.

What is your occupation?

I create jewelry out of found objects, beads, stones, brass, sterling silver and gold.

What activities do you enjoy?

This is a challenging question because I’m passionate about so many things! As MJ and Susan say, I’m a novelty junkie. I’m addicted to studying and learning new skills and discovering new passions; I try hard to nurture my sense of wonder and curiosity. Of late, it’s been adornment of the body and home- jewelry, beading, textiles, sewing, fashion, interior design, etc. Otherwise, I enjoy sailing, skiing, cycling, dancing, traveling, meditating, paddle boarding, hiking, camping and practicing yoga in all of its forms. I also love to watch the sun rise, spend time with my husband and our children, my family and my dear friends, and play my ukulele just well enough so that someone might recognize the tune.

What is your favorite thing about living in the Northern Neck or Middle Peninsula?

I currently divide my time between Chapel Hill, NC and Key West, FL, but I raised my children in the Northern Neck and I return as often as I can. As a lifelong sailor, I was initially attracted to the aquatic playland that the coastline provides, but it’s my dear friends (and the opportunity to sneak in a practice or a meal with Susan!) that keep me coming back.

Is there anything you want to add?

I’ve had the pleasure of an ongoing yoga practice and dialog with Susan for almost 20 years. We both recognize that we are lifelong students of yoga first. I admire the creativity, energy and enthusiasm she puts forth into education and class prep to provide her best effort. Her passion for yoga is infectious. I applaud her success in keeping her sangha alive and well during these challenging times via her website and blog, her free classes on the web and live classes at UU! Thank you, Susan, for all that you do to spread peace and love.