Today we’re introducing you to adaPTed Yoga team member Alexandra!

Q&A with adaPTed Yoga Team Member Alexandra 

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I am originally from Miami, Florida. I received my undergraduate degree in American Studies from Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. I moved to Boston to begin my graduate studies at MGH Institute of Health Professions, and am currently a second-year in their Doctor of Physical Therapy program. In my free time I like to run, cycle, dance and cook.

What made you decide to go to PT school?

My first year out of college I worked as a paralegal in a law firm, and at the time I was uncertain what career I wanted to pursue. I visited a friend from high school during this time, and she suggested I consider a profession in physical therapy. I knew little about the field, but I was curious and decided to do my own research.  I immediately loved what I learned about the profession. I began shadowing different physical therapists, and what I observed strengthened my decision to apply to graduate school for physical therapy.  I was thrilled to find a profession that allowed me to combine my passion for movement and exercise with my interest in people.

Tell us about your experience with yoga/ mindfulness…

I took my first yoga class when I was in high school, and I was surprised by how difficult the class was. Within minutes I was sweating and unsteadily shaking my way through the different poses everyone was effortlessly performing. Since then I have dabbled in yoga, taking different types of classes of varying difficulty.  I am looking forward to expanding my experience and knowledge through adaPTed Yoga.

I was first introduced to meditation by my sister and brother-in-law four years ago, and since then I have made it an integral part of my daily life. I went on my first 10-day silent meditation retreat two years ago, and this was an extremely difficult yet rewarding experience that solidified and deepened my practice. I currently enjoy meditating on my own as well as with others in group meditations.

What interested you in working on adaPTed Yoga for your Capstone project?

I was extremely excited about the opportunity to teach the skills of mindfulness and meditation to community members. I was also drawn by the opportunity to help lead a class that would make movement and exercise accessible and enjoyable to all individuals. Exercise and meditation play a central role in my daily life, and I strongly believe that increased movement and mindfulness can enhance everyone’s physical and mental well-being.

What do you hope to learn by working on adaPTed Yoga?

I am looking forward to learning more about yoga and adaptive sports. I hope to apply what I learn from adaPTed yoga to my future work as a physical therapist.

What do you hope to share with others by working on adaPTed Yoga?

I am excited to share my love of movement as well as my experience and knowledge of mindfulness and meditation with others. I think exercise and meditation are two key ingredients to living a meaningful and joyful life.

What are some of your favorite ways to stay active?

I love to cycle, run (through the city as well as through trails), dance and go for hikes.

What’s your favorite yoga pose?

Child’s pose – because it’s easy to perform, provides a great stretch for your back, and is extremely relaxing!

What’s your favorite thing to do in Boston?

I really enjoy running and cycling along the Charles River, and I never get tired of the beautiful views of Boston you see along the way.

 

Anything else you’d like to know?

Feel free to comment with questions and I’d be more than happy to answer!