Christine Issak is a St. Louis Yoga Week Ambassador and yoga student who finds joy in practicing yoga with her St. Louis Yoga community. So much so, that when asked if she could practice anywhere in the world, where would it be, she responded right here! Christine would like to remind us all: “Love yourself 💕 it’s not too late to get started”.
Learn more about Christine Issak and how the St. Louis yoga community has impacted her practice in her interview below:
How did you first discover yoga? What was your first impression of yoga?
A friends social media post showing her after a hot yoga class. I loved it – I was hooked after the first class! I loved the heat and movements together, I connected with hot yoga and the instructor immediately.
What brought you to yoga?
I was looking for something different to add into my fitness regimen and an friend and I decided to give hot yoga a try.
What was your first yoga class like? Where was it? Who were you with?
It was hot! I thought I might die when the instructor said is was 108 in the room! It was at Yoga Core and More in Shiloh, Illinois. I was with my friend Tara Todd. I remember leaving drenched in sweat and it was the middle of winter (5 degrees outside)!
What is your favorite part of a yoga or mindfulness practice?
The connection I feel to myself (mind, body and soul).
What does your current yoga and/or mindfulness practice look like?
My boyfriend and I practice together several days a week. Currently we take advantage of live zoom and recorded classes. Sometimes we practice outside (see provided picture), it’s one of our favorite spots!
What styles of yoga/meditation do you practice?
Vinyasa- hot yoga flow
What are your favorite yoga props and/or tools?
Block
How does yoga show up for you off the mat?
I feel and look better inside and out, I find myself to be more balanced, focused and at peace.
How has your practice impacted your life?
It’s been life changing, the connection I feel towards myself, my mat, my boyfriend (that I practice with), and the yoga community we practice with. The spiritual connection has also been enlightening for me, connecting with positive intentions and energy – a higher power!
Where do you practice yoga in St. Louis? Who are your teachers?
Go Express Yoga and Pose-itively Yoga (Illinois), Kellie, Taylor, Cyndy, Jamie, Jena, Amanda, Katie, Gwen and Loretta!
What do you know now that you wish you knew when you started practicing?
It’s called a practice for a reason – everyday is different and listen to your body and what it needs!
What are you currently reading or listening to?
Podcasts – Brené Brown
What is the best piece of advice you have received regarding your practice?
You are a yogi, you practice yoga: embrace it! Stop dipping your toe in this work , follow this path! (Words of wisdom from my Reiki)
What are you curious about within yoga/meditation/etc right now?
How I can find a deeper connection to my practice (mind and body).
Why do you practice yoga?
To feel better, to get stronger mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
So, what are you up to when you aren’t practicing yoga or mindfulness?
Spending time with family, taking long walks, riding bikes, and cooking.
Share a story of how yoga has shown up in your life off of the mat.
When a situation is stressful, I take a few deep breaths and try to find that release, and at the end of a stressful day, participating in a yoga class really helps me clear my mind and move my body.
Share a story of a profound/interesting/inspiring moment you have experienced within a yoga practice.
One day we were practicing outside and just as we were getting started with class, closing our eyes and breathing: church bells chimed. They sounded absolutely beautiful and at that moment I knew in my heart and mind I was where I was supposed to be.
What has been one of the most impactful things you have learned through yoga or meditation?
Your body and mind can achieve great things!
If you could have an intro song play every time you step onto your mat or chair, what would it be?
Hallelujah by Pentatonix
If you could practice yoga anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Right where I’m at – I am very blessed!
If you could share any message on a billboard, what would it say?
Love yourself 💕 it’s not too late to get started
Thank you Christine for sharing your experience of the St. Louis Yoga community with us! Would you like to share your experience of practicing yoga in St. Louis? Become an ambassador here!