My story
I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Inis Oirr in the Aran Islands. I was raised bi-lingually and blessed with four older brothers. That's where my love for movement started, I had to be on my toes to keep up. I always had an interest in sport in particular Gaeilc football. I was fortunate to wear the Inis Oírr, Oiléan Árainn, Corofin and Galway jerseys for many years.
IIn 2012, I was involved in a car accident. It left me with chronic back pain for over 4 years. At times I was unable to work and my football career was most definitely sidelined. As a result I was relying on monthly injections to keep me on the pitch and somewhat in life. Looking back, it was one of the best things that ever happened to me, as it led me to discover Yoga, breathwork as well as other types of movements.
I love to travel and I have been lucky to have had many adventures around the world over the last few years, meeting incredible people along the way. In January 2020, I finally got the opportunity to study in an Ashram in India and undertake a TTC Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga teacher training.
I moved to Canada after my training and have been taught online and in person. I have since moved back to my home, Inis Oírr, where I teach yoga as well as being the Irish language officer of the island. To describe my yoga style I would say it's a combination of my own life experiences. Full body movements with a focus on breath work and some stories that have helped me on my yoga journey. I teach a variety of classes mainly based in the Hatha and Vinyasa traditions. I teach gentle yoga which is suitable for all levels, ages and experiences. Slow intentional movements with breath, awareness and short breathwork in each class. Yoga level 2 is a combination of Hatha & Vinyasa styles that will increase your heart rate..just a little. Plenty of flows, variations and as always focus on the breath.
Yoga in Irish
For those who know me I have never been a person to do one thing at a time.
My two passions of movement and the Irish language have led to the inception of Yoga as Gaeilge, thanks to a special request from a friend. In the process to strengthen both their minds, bodies and Gaeilge. Yoga as Gaeilge classes always have a space for people to speak and converse together in Irish before the beginning of class. Whether you are new to yoga, feel your Irish is a little rusty you are so welcome to join. Míle Fáilte.
I was originally drawn to yoga like most are for the asanas (the poses). The more I study and practice these ancient traditions the more breathwork and meditation become a part of my daily life. Yoga has increased my awareness. It has challenged me to consider moving away from the masculine energy, perfectionistic, striver who can be incredibly hard on herself, to learning the importance of slowing down. Alongside practising self-love. I am forever a student and each day on the mat brings with it new challenges and insights.
I am not an expert Yogi and can’t wrap my feet around my head (just yet) but with daily practice I am increasing strength, flexibility and would like to share the knowledge and benefits of this incredible practise with anyone who would like to join me.