My yoga community is my family and it has given me strength: strength to change, and grow, and inspire. Nathan was a big part of that. We were co-workers and we were friends. We shared a passion for yoga  and a love of community which drew us closer together. Nathan and I shared the same idea that some integral aspects of yoga are core and earth elements.

As a trained Pilates and yoga instructor, core strength is one of the focuses in my practice and my classes. The core helps to maintain the integrity of the poses and provides strength from the inside out – important both on and off the mat. Earth elements are another component: the fluidity of water allows smooth and easy movement; the spaciousness of air allows the body to move with the breath in perfect union; and the grounding of the earth keeps the body and mind strong and focused.

Nathan and I used to tease each other wondering who could incorporate more of these elements in a practice. But it wasn’t a competition because Nathan highlighted another key aspect of yoga: Lila or “play”, finding the joy and fun in the journey, in all its forms. So come on a journey with me.

Pam Genge