YOGI OF THE MONTH

October 2022 - Margot Bearden

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

As a life-long runner, I’d always thought I would benefit from something like yoga that would help with flexibility. Despite that, I’d never seriously tried anything and must give Art Gilbert all the credit for getting me to IOY. He and I have been friends since college, and he’s been tireless in suggesting I try InsideOut. This past winter I was struggling with serious depression and finally called Susan up and she convinced me to start attending practice. I’ve only been practicing 6-7 months but it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!

What is/are your intention(s) for your yoga practice? Originally, my intention was focused exclusively on gaining flexibility and core strength. However, as I’ve spent more time on the mat and learned about the mental and spiritual benefits of yoga, my focus is increasingly on the effects on my mindfulness and sense of peace that come from practicing. Both Susan and Mohler have recommended books that have been useful in gaining an awareness of the other limbs of yoga in addition to the physical asanas we practice in the studio. I’m increasingly drawn to the larger world of yoga and hope to gain more awareness in these areas.

What is your favorite pose and why? Pigeon in its various forms has been something I’ve enjoyed and practiced (even prior to yoga) as it helps with the occasional bouts of sciatica I struggle with. For me, downward facing dog hasn’t always been the sort of restful pose that Susan describes :). Despite that, I find it’s increasingly approachable and may actually provide some of that restorative benefit (though I’ve got lots of room for improvement!).

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga? I’ve now been able to try, I think, all the classes Susan offers and can truthfully say I enjoy them all. Slow Flow has been wonderful for me, and I love both the practice and the people! I’ve recently begun attending Vinyasa practices and have fallen newly in love with the different pace and physicality offered in those sessions. Friday’s Breathe & Stretch / Myofascial has always been a big draw for me as a relaxing way to practice. Most recently, I’ve been able to attend a couple of Saturday’s Yin Yang Flow and that class really seems to hit all my hot spots…it’s my new fave and I love it!

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life? It’s not much of an exaggeration to say that yoga has played a life-saving role in my life these last months. In addition to my depression, I’ve begun to transition (and yes, it is late in my life to be making that kind of decision!) and the practice, the community, and the mental benefits of yoga have truly been crucial to my being able to navigate my way. I recently attended the Kekoka Yoga Retreat for the first time, and it was one of the best weekends I can remember. The mix of yoga practices, the gorgeous setting, and the chance to share time with my yoga friends was simply the best…truly life changing!

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student?

As a newer student, I’m not in much of a position to offer advice but my experience has been consistent with what I’ve heard from many others. Just get on the mat with an open and accessible mind and begin to practice. For me, it hasn’t been immediate gratification as much as a slow and gradual improvement. I struggled for some time just being able to physically do the poses. As they become more approachable, I’ve found the mental benefits of being on the mat more and more apparent (though I still struggle with this!).

What is your occupation?

I worked in technology consulting most of my career and Richmond has been my home for many years. I’ve been retired since 2014 and am now living full time in Topping. I have two grown daughters, one of whom has a home nearby in Middlesex where my 95-year-old mother also lives in a guest cottage. My youngest daughter is married and in Charlottesville and is expecting our first grandchild in December!

What activities do you enjoy? I’ve always enjoyed running and have done many marathons and triathlons in the past. I’m trying to do more biking now given its lower impact on my knees and hips and have found several other yogis to ride with. Spending time on the water is always a treat in this area and I may have more small boats, paddleboards, kayaks, etc. than most people (other than Art Gilbert). Along with another friend from college, Art and I built sea kayaks and believe we are one of the very few individuals to have paddled to all of the Virginia barrier islands (a lightly contested honor to be fair!).

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

Although we’ve owned a home in Middlesex for many years, it’s only been the last two years that I’ve been a full-time resident. Small town living has many benefits and I’ve found so much to do in the tri-cities of White Stone, Irvington, and Kilmarnock that it’s like I’m living in a new location!

Is there anything you want to add?

I particularly want to thank the community of yogis at InsideOut Yoga for being so accepting, empathic, and supportive as I’ve become a part of your practice. Transitioning at this stage of my life offers plenty of challenge but so much excitement and expectation for me. I understand not everyone is able to share in my journey, but I could never have expected how the yoga community has accepted me. I’ll be eternally grateful and appreciative…I love you all!