Sunday, October 11, 2015

Yogi Spotlight Series - Aida Desta C.

Aida Desta C.

Instagram ID: miingini
Location: Lethe, Hanover, Jamaica
Occupation:  Graphic Designer & Kemetic Yoga Instructor







Aida is a graphic designer and self taught photographer.  She enjoys trying different recipes, cooking plant based meals and loves hanging out on the beach.


I really enjoyed reading her interview and am sure you will as well.     




Yoga is Breath.  Yoga is Balance. Yoga is Life. ~Aida Desta C.


How long have you been practicing yoga?  
August 2015 made it three years that I have been practicing yoga.

Do you attend classes?  
I attended a Kemetic Yoga certification (Yoga Alliance) in Jamaica under the direction of Yirser Hotep Lawrence.

When were you first introduced to yoga?  
Even though I had a basic knowledge about yoga and it’s health benefits, my real discovery happened during my mother’s healing process of breast cancer.  The discovery of yoga for me not only enhanced my sense of self-discipline but also developed a blissful bond of a mother and daughter, sharing their love for yoga together.


What type of yoga do you practice?
I practice a system of Kemetic Yoga that was developed by YogaSkills Method (YSM).  Kemetic Yoga is a series of movements and postures symbolic to the gods and goddesses of ancient Kemet (today known as Egypt).  Under the YSM, these specific movements and postures are to be done with geometric progression and the rule of four breathing.

How regular do you practice?  
I practice a little throughout the day.  I try to commit to a full session in the early mornings when I first wake up and as the sun is setting before I go to bed.  I practice deep breathing every day.


Is yoga more mental or physical?
I feel that yoga is a mix of both mental and physical application.  I believe that yoga is a system that can empower us to balance the two (the mental and the physical), so that both aspects are working together to achieve an overall sense of inner ever-lasting peace.


                 
What have you learned throughout your yoga journey?
As a result of my practice I have learned patience, self-discipline, laser focus, geometric progression, rule of four breathing, and how to make my body light.

Yoga has taught me the importance of practicing and that it is not about achieving a ‘cool pose’ you may have seen.  Some approach yoga with the mindset that it is something to do for a couple weeks to get their ‘body right’; yoga is NOT some kind of fitness fad.  A strong mind is needed and a sense of self-discipline if one intends to go through this journey which for me is a lifelong encounter.  There are times where you may have self doubt because you feel your progress is not where you want it to be, but yoga has taught me that it doesn’t matter what you want, you have to listen to your body and go with the flow—with persistence, consistence, and confidence.  Yoga has taught me that my body, mind and soul are ever evolving and ever growing.





                  
What would you say to someone who says yoga is not for them?
I would express to them that yoga is what you make it.  Yoga is a tool to learn not only patience with yourself but also to encourage yourself in times self doubt. You have to come onto the mat with the right type of attitude and mindset.  I would encourage them to rethink their state of mind, trust their body on this journey, and remove all aspects of self doubt, ultimately allowing an open mind, body, and soul to blossom.



                  

                 

Thank you Aida for being a part of the spotlight series!

Contact Aida:

Email:  aidadestacampbell@gmail.com

Social Media Platforms: 


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Edited by Vanessa L. 

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