Kathleen Charles

Kathleen Charles is one of our amazing Kids Teachers. She also teaches us grown ups Flow Yoga on a Thursday night. Kathleen will soon be starting a Seniors Class here at Yogasol in Ferny Hills.

We caught up with Kathleen inbetween being a Mum and Teaching at the other studios, In New Market and Chermside.

Here is Kathleen’s views on Yoga, and how it benefits all ages.

You’ve just started teaching seniors Yoga. What draws you to work with this age group?

I’ve been practicing yoga for 16 years and it’s only in the past 4 or so that I’ve felt “worthy” of teaching it, if that makes sense. It’s so much more than an exercise class and I feel teachers should have a true understanding of what we’re doing. That said, I have found yoga incredible and transformative in my life and I am thrilled with the opportunity to bring it to others.

I truly believe it’s for “every body” and I like being able to bring it to people who may not be seen as “typical yogis”. I like to practice with anyone, but there’s something special to me about practicing with people who aren’t worried about fancy poses, but more so really incorporating it into a healthy, happy lifestyle.

I started working with seniors even before I began practicing yoga. I thoroughly enjoy this group of people and feel yoga is wonderful for them as it works so much on life and body acceptance, which is so important at that stage of our life journey.

What does Yoga have to offer to people who are less able bodied?

Yoga is really not at all about how able bodied we are. The flexibility and strengthening benefits can be enjoyed by anyone—there is an appropriate level for all of us. It’s also about dealing with emotions and pain, both physical and mental/emotional/spiritual. It’s about acceptance of our bodies and ourselves where we are along the path of life. It’s about breathing fully. It’s really about our whole outlook towards life and other living beings—so much more than an exercise class!

What would you say to someone who said “I’m too old to try Yoga?

It’s the same as saying I’m not flexible enough to do yoga. Give it a go! Find a teacher who can reach you where you are in life today, your current abilities and go from there. Start by learning the benefits of healthy breathing and meditation and then work towards physical practice if you want to.

Specalising in both Children’s classes and seniors classes must give you such a broad view on Yoga and its benefits. More so than teaching seasoned Yogis who all stand on their heads and elbows with ease.

What gives you the most sense of satisfaction within both age groups?