STUDENT OF THE MONTH - FEBRUARY - Meet Elleise
What is your favourite class at YOGA loft?
100% Hot Power Vinyasa (I love the challenge of a Steve class or Stella’s Saturday morning but I just as much, love Emily’s fairly-like flows) That feeling in savasana dripping in sweat after an early morning hot power, is probably my favourite feeling!
When did you first start yoga and what do you like most about the practice?
I honestly first started around 7 years ago as it seemed to be the ‘new thing to try’! Since then, I’ve always loved the physical challenge, developing strength, flexibility and attempting poses I never thought I could ever do. However it has only really been the past couple of years that I have realised just how much the practice has supported my mental health. With the stresses of everyday life including work, I love that I can put everything on hold and it’s all that matters for that time. No matter the type of day I have had, even on the worst days and I don’t really feel up to a class, I know that it helps release all the tension and built up emotions and I can leave it on the mat. I also love the community- I’ve met so many beautiful, like minded and amazing humans at the Loft which I am so grateful for!! I can always rely on yoga to allow me to come back and feel grounded and supported. I generally feel happier and healthier and could never NOT do yoga again!
What do you feel is your most valued personal quality?
Above all.. Kindness. Not only towards others including family, friends and strangers, but towards myself.
What are you passionate about in life?
So many things!
First and foremost would have to be travel. I’ve done my fair share of backpacking and getting out of my comfort zone, experiencing new cultures, learning, making friends from around the world, getting lost, attempting to communicate in a foreign language and just being on a long haul bus with my journal and music, ready to explore a new destination is so blissful. I feel so much more grateful for the most simple things we have in life whilst travelling.
Embracing a more ‘slow’ and simpler lifestyle (anywhere near the ocean!), is something I am becoming more passionate about. I love the simple pleasures; sun on my skin, salt water therapy, cute coastal cafes, coffee, cups of tea with friends and kind gestures.
I’m also passionate about health, wellness and fitness. I love to keep fit, feel strong and eat well. Give me a day trip that involves any type of ride, hike, swim or climb any day! I guess I’ve become passionate about yoga as it’s allowed me to feel more truthful towards myself. I love educating myself about mental health, listening to podcasts about a variety of life and wellness topics and reading books about self- development.
What is your favourite food/drink?
I can never decide on one! But the following make the cut.
Mediterranean (my mum is Italian so anything with feta and drizzled with olive oil basically..) , a good shakshuka with naan bread and Mexican
What is your most loved part of Newcastle?
The East End.. I love that you have access to the beach, a good stroll, amazing coffee and of course, Yoga Loft all in walking distance. The best vibe!
Do you have any words of wisdom you’d like to share with our readers and fellow Lofties?
Hmm, no particular words, however I have been soaking up and journaling notes about wisdom after wisdom on a variety of topics while listening to Jay’s Shetty’s ‘On Purpose’ podcasts. His topics cover so many aspects of life that I personally want to work on and its truly impacting on my life! Lots of wisdom in his words which I recommend listening to!