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I used to be in hi-tech working for HP as a software engineer. I took advantage of the yoga classes they offered mainly in the hope that yoga would alleviate the pain from my sciatica. Not only did it help, but I also found yoga a lot of fun. I was hooked. I started going to classes and workshops all over the Bay Area and I took over some of the yoga classes at HP. My wife said I was obsessed. Maybe!
In 2012, I embarked on more yoga teacher training, and, that same year, I took advantage of HP’s early retirement package. It was timed well as it meant I could devote my time to the training and enjoy a wonderful trip to India with my Breathe Together colleagues. I started teaching at Breathe and then at other yoga studios. Pre-COVID-19, I was teaching at the YMCA, at some hi-tech companies, and I had some private clients. Now, all the classes I teach are virtual. My teaching style is Vinyasa with an Iyengar-based focus on alignment. This style helps to build strength and flexibility; something we all need. I like hand balance poses such as Crow, Peacock, Eight-Angle Pose, and Flying Pigeon. I’ll include these poses in my classes from time to time. They’re fun poses, I think!
For me, yoga improves quality of life. I have other interests, and most recently have enjoyed baking bread. I find baking quite soothing and enjoy kneading dough, feeling how the texture changes. I enjoy swimming, weather permitting, and I like to take walks around the neighborhood when it’s not too smoky! Days at the beach and eating out are fun, too. To learn more about me visit http://yogawithphilj.com.
How did you fall in love with your practice?
This is difficult to explain, but yoga just made me feel good. My body would complain if I didn’t practice. I like to try different styles and get the urge to switch from one style to another. Sometimes hot yoga, sometimes Ashtanga, sometimes Iyengar. Since February 2020, I’ve been practicing Ashtanga Vinyasa more regularly – mainly at home because of COVID-19.
What books are on your nightstand?
I enjoy science fiction. I started reading Leviathan Wakes by James S.A. Corey last year. It is book one of The Expanse series. This spring, I read book eight of the series. I think book nine is the last of the series but it isn’t available yet. I’m currently reading the second book of the Red Rising series.
How have you set up your practice space?
I don’t have a fixed place for my practice. During the colder months, I usually practice in the living room with the gas fire on. My preference, though, is to practice outside, in the morning, before the family is up and about, and before it gets too hot.
