Yoga first began for Christine as a way to help deal with overwhelming anxiety and a heavy sense of depression and self-loathing. By practicing yoga, meditation, pranayama and mindfulness she was able to feel again. To work through her pain and confusion. To trust herself. To take the necessary steps forward to begin to care for herself. Physically, mentally and emotionally.
These practices helped her get off of medication. Yoga became her therapy. And was also the “gateway” into the healthy lifestyle she so craved, yet was scared to allow herself to experience. Yoga has opened up a whole new way of being. To start loving her body by eating healthier and mostly plant-based. It has allowed her to look fear in the face and try things she never thought possible. Like trying her first (mini) sprint triathlon, or hang-gliding in Switzerland, or planning her first yoga retreat!
We sat down with Christine and talked about yoga, life and more. . . Here’s what she had to say.
What experience brought you to yoga?
Yoga has been a huge part of my healing and transformation. Originally anxiety and depression lead me to yoga, but I continued practicing because the more I did, the more I learned about myself. Now, yoga reminds me to come back to the moment, find some gratitude, breathe and remember it doesn’t have to be so complicated. Yoga empowers me, heals me and allows me to feel more compassionate, more patient and more connected.
How did you discover Yoloha and what do you love about it?
I discovered Yoloha by living in Charleston, SC. Now I practice and teach at their local studio, as well as working behind the scenes for the company. I love the Yoloha team and their authentic commitment to a high quality product, that supports the environment and connects like-minded, positive people.
What style(s) of yoga do you teach? Practice?
All yoga brings me joy. My favorites to practice and teach are Vinyasa, Yin and Meditation
What is your favorite Yoloha product and why?
The Native Mat when practicing in the studio or at home. It has that durable feel and absolutely no slip.
The Chakra Nomad when traveling because it’s light (and gorgeous)
Where do you teach?
Charleston, SC: Yoloha Yoga Factory, Soul Yoga + Wellness, Urban Yoga, and Serenity Tree Beach Yoga
What yoga certifications do you have?
200hr RYT – Fundamentals & Yin from Gaea Yoga Center
12hr Gentle Certification from Holy Cow Yoga Center
Working towards 300hr Advanced Training from Asheville Yoga Center
Do you have any events or workshops coming up?
Yoga & Adventure Retreat in Costa Rica – March
Yoga & Hiking Retreat in Asheville, NC – June
Outdoor Adventure Retreat at Fontana Lake, NC – August
You can find out more at christinelentzyoga.com
Who is your favorite teacher?
Eckhart Tolle. The book, The Power of Now has been a huge influence on my life.
At any moment we can come back to the breath and thus the present moment. And that’s where the magic happens. It really is that simple.
Talk about one connection you make between your asana practice and your life off of your mat.
My practice is always a reflection of what is going on in my life. When I need to really tune inwards, I gravitate towards yin and mediation. When I am feeling fiery and powerful, I lean towards a challenging vinyasa practice. The biggest takeaway for me, is gratitude, intention and presence. These three things practiced on the mat, have truly transformed my life off that mat as well. Yoga teaches us to show up for ourselves with compassion and curiosity, so that we can do that for others too.
Other than yoga, what is your favorite way to take care of yourself?
Moving my body (especially outside)..hiking, swimming, biking, running, paddleboarding.
Travel & adventure, family time, a good book and delicious food also nourishes my soul.
What is your favorite mantra?
Be Here Now.
What is your favorite yoga pose and why?
Bound Half Moon (Ardha Chandra Chapasana), because I feel equally grounded and expansive, soft and trusting, yet strong and powerful.
What is your favorite place that you have travelled and why?
Capri, Italy
It was a magical few days of exploration (riding a teeny tiny chairlift to the top of Anacapri and hiking back down), adventure (renting a tiny boat and circumventing the island), outrageously delicious Italian food, relaxing with books and a view, a few cappuccinos, a new culture and precious time spent with my love, Jared.
Talk about something that challenges you.
As an empath, I feel everything to the extreme, which can be really overwhelming. The yoga mat has been my safe place to anchor myself and process emotions in a way that’s healing.
When do you feel like you are being your true self?
Anytime I am immersed in nature or connected to my breath.
Learn more about Christine at christinelentzyoga.com
