YOGI OF THE MONTH

December 2023 - Steve Griswold

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

Off and on for about 8 years, more regularly in the last two years. My wife introduced me to it through the YMCA.

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

On a practical, physical level, to try and reverse some of the fifty years of tightness in my core muscle groups and joints. On a different level, to learn skills of mindfulness, intention, and discipline that are new to me and that I can carry into other parts of my life.

What is your favorite pose and why?

Pigeon, because it’s both physically and mentally challenging to me. When those come together in the right way, the experience is worth the effort

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga?

I like the Saturday morning Yin Yang Flow, but I also enjoy the Tuesday/Thursday Vinyasa Flow when I can get there.

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life?

Through many years of medical practice I’m realizing how little I understand about the mind/ body nexus and its relationship to our health. Yoga has been a part of at least letting me begin to understand the interconnection. It’s exciting to get glimpses of how it works in ourselves and in others.

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

Stick with regular practice as often as you can. I don’t think any of us knows where it will take us.

What is your occupation?

I’ve been a family medicine, geriatrics, and hospice and palliative medicine physician for 30 years, mostly in very rural areas.

What activities do you enjoy?

Reading and gardening; fishing in a small way.

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

I have to drive from Mathews to Middlesex or Lancaster to even find a stoplight.

Is there anything you want to add?

I’m grateful for the yoga opportunities available to us locally.