YOGI OF THE MONTH

September 2023 - Sharon Seal

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

I injured my back while windsurfing on my 35th birthday (to prove I was still young!  Ha!).  Yoga was what I turned to, and it helped me recover without surgery.  I’ve been practicing yoga for exactly half my life…but still consider myself a novice. 

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

My intentions have evolved over the years….from healing my back, to becoming more flexible, to relieving stress, to getting stronger, to becoming more aware of my body, to stilling my mind and being more Present. 

What is your favorite pose and why? 

Tree Pose, because I can tell instantly if I am centered and Present….or not. 

What is your favorite class at InsideOut Yoga? 

Because I live near Annapolis, Maryland, I have only attended a couple of Susan’s Saturday morning classes in person (in addition to doing at least one private session with her, which was very valuable).  However, I did use Susan’s YouTube classes during the pandemic, which were a lifesaver.  I loved every class at the January 2023 Costa Rica yoga retreat.  My favorite part of any class is when Susan adjusts my pose or gives me feedback on my form. 

How has the practice of yoga influenced your life? 

My yoga practice has made me more somatically aware and given me greater strength and flexibility (Physical).  My six-day-a-week practice requires discipline and focus and quiets my mind (Mental).  And my life has been enriched by new relationships with some of the IOY open-hearted community, as well as given me the opportunity to contribute to the YMCA camp scholarships by attending the Kekoka Yoga Retreat over the years.  (Relationships/Community) 

What advice would you have for a beginning yoga student? 

Find an experienced yoga teacher with heart who will introduce you to the physical, mental, and energetic aspects of yoga.  You are never too old to start (or too young…my granddaughter has been doing yoga with me and her mom since she was three years old). 

What is your occupation? 

I am self-employed as an Executive Leadership Coach for over 25 years.  My yoga practice helps me to be fully Present with my clients, as well as more attuned to them somatically. 

What activities do you enjoy? 

I enjoy reading, cooking, traveling, kayaking, doing yoga outside, and walking.  I love meaningful conversations with friends and family; hanging out with my beau Jim; and laughing until I cry.  I treasure my time with my two sons and granddaughter.  I enjoy coaching very bright leaders who want to learn and grow professionally and personally. 

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

My favorite thing about visiting the Northern Neck is being with my dear friends of over four decades, Art and Martha Gilbert.  They were kind enough to not only introduce me to Susan and IOY, but also to many of their delightful, fun, interesting friends.  Such a vibrant community on the NNK! 

Is there anything you want to add? 

I’m excited that Jim and I will be going to Barcelona for Susan’s yoga retreat in May/June 2024.  I look forward to that adventure and to deepening my yoga practice, meeting new friends, and dusting off my Spanish.