Teachers of Stretch: Kristy Robinson

Having danced for over 18 years Kristy initially turned to yoga as exercise for injury rehabilitation but quickly discovered it was so much more than just the postures. Intrigued she travelled to India to gain an entire modern yogic understanding and completed her yoga teacher training with Dr. Gaurav Malik at the Ashtak Yoga School in Goa. Kristy is a Hatha based teacher with a strong focus on alignment and breath. Her classes are light-hearted, fun and never too serious. Kristy is also an advocate for more conscious living and enjoys sharing more eco, greener and sustainable choices. 

Our manager Leanne interviewed her recently and this is what we found out...

When did you get into yoga? What was the reason you stuck with it?
 
I got into yoga after a dance injury. My impression of yoga was that it was just about flexibility but after my first class I realized it was so much more. I was always so stressed at work and would be upset most days but I noticed the more I practiced yoga I was able to focus on controlling my breath and calming my mind so I became a lot happier.
 
Which pose is your favourite and why?
 
I love a good wheel pose because it's not just about a bendy back but having openness in the chest and shoulders, strength in the arms and legs, and flexibility in the front of the hips and abdomen. I love watching students progress in this pose.
 
Which 3 poses would you recommend a beginner to do daily?
 
Rag doll (uttanasana with the upper body relaxed) is always amazing for the lower spine, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting. A beautiful standing side bend always feels so good. And bridge pose to get a little back bend and engage the core. These 3 poses are great to work your back body, front body and side body.
 
What is your favorite part about teaching at Stretch?
 
I love the students as they're easy going. I'm not super serious so I want people to have fun and smile during class which I find Stretch students do.
 
What lesson stands out in yoga? Has it moved you into a different direction?
 
Smile, breathe and go slowly. We're always so busy so when we practice yoga it's a time where we don't have a deadline or be stressed. Go at your own pace, each day is different and our body always feels different.