SHANNON
HOWARD
Positive and empowering...
she'll leave you feeling strong..
What drew you to yoga?
When I took my first yoga class in college, I hated it. It was really hot, I couldn’t touch the floor in a fold, and I did NOT wear the right kind of top for that class. I remember laying there at the end of class wondering if I could ever be as flexible as that girl way at the front or if I would ever recover from sweating so much. The physical practice became a challenge for me to overcome. I bought a nice mat, an unlimited monthly pass, and a better tank top. What I found though, was that as different teachers put their spin on yoga, I was getting much more out of these 75 minutes than I ever imagined. Next thing I know, I’m signed up for yoga teacher training and studying sanskrit in between biochem.
Why do you practice?
My favorite thing about yoga is silence. I can be in a room with 30 other people breathing, music playing, a teacher cueing, and find silence in myself. That sweet spot of observance and releasing that allows me to be present in a way that I would have never been before.
(Life+) How does yoga change you off the mat?
It's made me a better version of myself: more aware, gentle, kind, loving, supportive, & graceful.
What is your style?
My teaching style is challenging, empowering, and fun! I think making the practice playful can be the best way to keep the self-judgement at bay, so smiling and laughing is encouraged! I love to help students find their edge and decide whether to push past to explore a little or allow themselves to soften into a place of ease.
Where are you when you’re not teaching?
In the woods! I love being in nature, especially hiking, climbing, SUP yoga, you name it.
What illuminates you?
My cat, adventures, new friends, & always tacos.