Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a yoga teacher? Are you an avid yogi who aspires to be a yoga teacher one day? Or maybe just someone that has heard about yoga and wants to give it a go?
I caught up with Ginny Mahoney, Siena’s yoga instructor, to learn more about what drives her and why she started teaching yoga.
Her Campus Siena: When did you first become interested in yoga?
Ginny Mahoney: I started because I was a professional figure skater, and my coach made comments on the side about how I didn’t breathe properly. So I started attending yoga classes to help with that aspect, also to help with improving my flexibility. I loved it, felt centered and calm, and of course it helped with my skating. The most important aspect of yoga to me is the mental clarity I gain from it.
HCS: What pushed to become a yoga teacher?
GM: I went through a lot with my daughters, who dealt with anxiety, bullying, and self doubt while they were in high school and college. There’s so many unanswered questions and pressure from peers and parents at this age about what your going to do for college or future career. Yoga teaches you that self doubt is normal and also teaches you how to deal with it to be a confident, and calm person.
The most important aspect of teaching to me is having a message to share. That’s something I strive to bring to every class.
HCS: What is your favorite age group to teach?
GM: I love teaching college age. You guys are the best! But I feel I have something unique and special to offer to each age group, depending on what they need.
HCS: What’s your favorite aspect of your job?
GM: I enjoy making a connection with my students. I love when people come up after class and say that something really resonated with them that I said during the class. Especially if it helps with someone’s anxiety or a similar issue.
I work really hard at it. I put so much time into prepping each class to make sure that it flows and that it is quality. I truly love putting in the work because I feel like it is a calling for me. Students take time out of their day to practice with me, so I want to make it worth it for them.
HCS: What’s the aspect you find most challenging?
GM: Always trying to raise the bar to come up with new creative ways to put the poses into a flow. It’s cool because you can bring a mudra (hand gesture) or a mantra (quote or saying) in it to switch it up. There’s so many places you can go with it. It’s fun to take different teachers’ classes and learn their style to get inspiration and grow.
If you want a career where you can make connections with people and help all age groups with their mental clarity and physical strength, becoming a yoga instructor may be the path for you!
If not, yoga can be beneficial practice for anyone to attend to become the best version of themselves.
If you are interested in joining one of Ginny’s classes, sign up on IMLeagues for a class in the Mac Aerobics Room: Monday or Thursday Night at 8-9pm!