Emily Garrett Yoga

I took my first yoga class in 1994, on the advice of my step mother. This was the beginning of a lifelong practice that has become a very good friend.  My first yoga teacher, Jane Selzer, taught Kripalu yoga.  I still remember her asking, during one of those early classes,”How gentle can you be with yourself?”. I continue to explore this question.

At university, I studied both yoga and modern dance. Through the disciplined movement of my body I found confidence, less physical pain, and a safe way to express myself. In Portland, Oregon I met Jana Labib who taught Bikram poses and inspired me with stories of bringing the awareness she practiced in yoga into her daily life.

I knew I wanted to teach yoga when I started volunteering to lead classes in a women’s homeless shelter. I remember the first class I taught. I said the things that Jane used to say to us in class as I gently led the women through breathing exercises and poses. It was amazing to watch a group transform in the space of an hour. These women oozed confidence in Virabadrasana II, balanced in Vrikasana, and slowed down to feel the rhythm of their breath. Something this powerful was impossible to ignore. I made a commitment after that first class to get certified in Kripalu yoga and teach.

I am certified as a teacher in both Kripalu and Vajra Yoga and as a teacher trainer for Vajra Yoga.  I continue to be amazed at yoga’s ability to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. Yoga has helped me work through injury and depression with grace and curiosity. Jill Satterfield, who teaches Vajra Yoga, taught me how to breathe awareness into the most hardened and painful parts of myself. Arlene Griffin taught me the disciplined practice of directing my mind intentionally through Tantra Yoga. Ana Forrest taught me to source tremendous strength from inside. Jon Fabbro introduced me to the teachings of Chogyam Trungpa and deepened my understanding of meditation.

My main study is daily life, where I continue to remind myself to practice awareness, to accept my feelings as they arise, and to take responsibility for my actions.  I also have a fun time untangling the wisdom of my heart out of the web of my ego.  My personal yoga and meditation practice are the greatest supports I have for this practice of life.

I lead trainings, workshops and retreats both nationally and internationally as well as private and group classes in Burlington, VT. My students offer me tremendous insight into the human experience. They keep me energized and inspired to teach. My hope is that we can all find a practice that suits us and learn to observe ourselves with tremendous curiosity and compassion.