yoga news: featured teacher
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An Interview
with
Sandi Hanna
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| Sandi in Tree Pose |
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"Sandi's classes are truly wonderful! I always leave feeling challenged, encouraged and respected in my yoga and pilates practice. " Shanah Valentino
Q: What Inspires and motivates you?
A: My Faith, Kindness, and Giving to others, inspires me to be the person I am. Knowledge and learning motivates me. I have always been intrigued studying the body; its purpose, function and movement. Once you build body awareness and begin to focus on the movement, your workouts become stronger and deeper-(that’s the physical side); And then focusing on the mind, the consciousness and the breath – you become more at ease and relaxed (that’s the mental side)…It’s a beautiful thing….(Can really make for a pleasant day)…
Q: What Certifications do you hold?
A: I’ve been a ACE certified personal trainer for the past 15 years; Certified Yoga Instructor for the past two years; and a trained Stott Pilates instructor for the past 3 years.
Q: Do you remember your first Yoga class?
A: In the 70’s, I was working in Chicago and after work attended a yoga studio on Lincoln Ave. called, Chg. Yoga Institute. It was a very positive experience and cool environment. It fit right in with the 70’s of being hip and cool… I always felt great after class, and knew one day I would pursue my Yoga career. After years of working in the business world for Herman Miller and becoming a mother of twins- I got back into my Yoga practice. I completed my 200 hr. Yoga certification w/Suddha Weixler at Chicago Yoga Center in 2007, and still practice under Suddha’s guidance. He inspires me to be passionate about my teaching and to teach what I know. I have also attended workshops with Srivastsa Ramswami, Paul Grilley, and Iyengar teacher: Julie Gudmestad. (author of Yoga Journal’s Anatomy of a Yogi)
Q: What style of Yoga teaching do you enjoy?
A: Broader Hatha approach mixed with strong alignment, strength and core.
Q: What is your favorite yoga pose?
A: There are many; Uttanasana would be one, because I enjoy forward bends & relaxing the upper body; I also enjoy how it opens my sacrum. Headstand, because it took me out of my comfort zone and made me step out. When I finished the pose, I was so enlightened because I did it!!! It brought joy…
Q: Do you remember your first Pilates class?
A: In 2001, I attended a Personal Training Summit in NY, NY, where I attended several Stott Pilates classes, and loved the anatomy education Stott Pilates represents. It inspired and led me to completing all my certification trainings in the entire Stott Pilates repertoire (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrel series). It took me 2 years to complete the training (2006-2008), at Elements In Motion, Chicago; under the direction of Vered Arbel, another inspiring teacher.
Q: What is your favorite Pilates pose?
A: There are many because I love all the stabilization work. The “Half roll back” would be one because of how it makes the spine feel; and “Leg Pull Front” because I love connecting with my upper body strength and creating stabilization.
Q: What style of Pilates teaching do you enjoy?
A: Stott Pilates Repertoire – Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels; At Elmhurst Yoga Shala, I teach Mat Pilates - both Essential and Intermediate levels.
Q: What do you think about Pilates/Yoga infused formats?
A: I think the infused format is great providing that both the Yoga and Pilates stays true to pure form. They’re both tremendous core strengtheners and will incorporate breath to the movement of each exercise. They both aim toward developing a healthy connection among body, mind & spirit. It provides a new educational experience for the student and is a great workout.
Q: What do you feel passionate about?
A: Helping people find strength and laughter in their lives. “Grow old being strong – both physically and mentally”. Your quality of life will be better and you’ll be much happier.
Q: You have a favorite retreat…
A: Yes, It’s in Sedona, AZ (hiking the red-rocks and finding that spiritual enlightenment), as well as Key West, FL (watching the beautiful sunsets everyday and hearing the joy from all that witness it!!!) Life is Good!!!
Q: Who are the people that inspire you the most?
A: My husband and sons: Mark, Luke and Charlie, and family members and friends that share their love, guidance and support.
Namaste
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Here are what students have said about Sandi’s classes!
“Sandi's classes are truly wonderful! I always leave feeling challenged, encouraged and respected in my yoga and pilates practice. Always precisely cueing each pose, as well as directing the inhalations and exhalations throughout the duration of class, Sandi's teaching style leaves no room for confusion, even for those just beginning their practice. Her knowledge of human anatomy is quite a helpful aide to understand how to keep proper form, as well as why it is so crucial for injury prevention. The Pilates/Yoga class is great for getting a dose of both modalities. Her Yoga class is a beneficial start for anyone's day. In the past 3 years of my yoga practice, I have grown so much, and I have Sandi to thank for that.”
Shanah Valentino
“I was first introduced to Sandi Hanna back in the fall of 2005 at the Yoga Shala. I had stopped running due to a hamstring injury that summer. I was told by many doctors and friends that I should really look into Pilates and yoga. I thought that I would miss the cardio part of my daily running routine. However I was hurting so much what did I have to lose. My first class I was nervous and worried that I would not be welcomed due to my lack of knowledge and flexibility. I have never been more wrong. Sandi greeted me at the door with her comforting smile and told me to relax and enjoy the class. Throughout the class Sandi educates us, explains the modifications if needed, and takes time with you when she notices that you are struggling. After 3 months or so my hamstrings were not hurting and I was so much more flexible. I owe this to Sandi and her classes. Sandi is such an inspiration to me. I truly enjoy her as a teacher and a friend.”
Lisa Regan
“I've been practicing yoga for 2 years now. I'll never forget my first class. It was a Tuesday night in August of 2007 at Elmhurst Yoga Shala with Gosia. I didn't know what I was doing, but I loved every second of it. When class was over, I was exhausted, my legs felt like over cooked pasta and I felt changed. I went home and told my husband "I'll never be the same" and I'm not. I'm in better shape now at 43 then I ever was in my 30's.”
“After a few months of yoga, I felt brave enough to try pilates with Sandi Hanna. Wow! Why did I wait so long to try? Sandi, like many of the teachers at EYS, is so supportive, caring and knowledgeable during the practice, she makes you excited to be there learning from her. Pilates has greatly improved my yoga. I would urge all EYS members to experience the benefits of pilates, as it will really round out your physical well being.”
“Thank you EYS for changing me for the better!”
Marilyn Mucci Yasdick
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