Hi friends, meet @yogi_saurus, she is the founder of @namasteasfuck a brand that aims to bring light to those who are struggling to get to yoga and find that inner peace. Alex taught me about crystals and once again reminded me of just how beautiful the human race is. This week we will dip into the pursuit of all things good
Why namasteasfuck?
When I first started practicing and wanted to cop some yoga gear, all I could find were shirts that said “love & light” or “peace.” I feel happy and peaceful after I practice, but during class I feel angry, sad, depressed, frustrated, hopeless...a whole spectrum of negative emotions towards myself, the teacher and the other people in the room.
I resonated with those light-hearted words after class, but I felt like a liar wearing those shirts while I was actually practicing. That’s how Namaste As Fuck came about, as a way to acknowledge and unapologetically make space for ALL of the feelings and experiences that come along with yoga practice and really, life in general. By taking the time to work through these shitty feelings in a healthy way, we can make space to feel the way we want. We want to show the world that you don’t have to be or feel a certain kind of way to practice, so we can get more people on their mats, feeling alive, feeling themselves & make the world a better place.
Where is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Recently I took a trip to Alaska to visit my brother. I think I said “holy shit this is so beautiful” so many times it was getting annoying. I was totally caught off guard by its beauty.
How does one get to know themselves better?
Date yourself. Spend time alone with as much curiosity and interest you would have with meeting someone brand new and had a little crush on. What are you like when there is no one around to entertain or impress? How do you react when faced with a new situation or a challenge? What places make you feel alive and open? What types of places, people or situations cause you to shut down? What words can you tell yourself to help you feel supported, safe and understood? I have found the answers to many of those questions by spending time on my own and since I am constantly growing and changing, I do my best to spend some time alone with myself every day to keep up. The more time you spend with yourself, the more you will be able to be the one to give yourself what you need.
Why do crystals make you happy?
Many have been given to me by teachers or friends or as mementos from different experiences, so I’m reminded of the love or adventure when I see them. Each one has their own personality and I love how each one feels so different in your hands. Having them around makes me feel calm, like an old friend.
Tell me about your dog?
Cruz is my cooler, more popular self in dog form. She’s my adventure buddy, confidant and secret keeper. She is chill when it’s time to chill but goes absolutely ham when it’s time to swim or play fetch. She will pretty much play games until she pukes. She is an old soul.
If you could ask god one question what would it be?
Thank you, and what else can I do to help?
Any advise for someone interested in yoga?
If you try a teacher or a type of class and you don’t like it, try a different one. There are and endless number of teaching styles and types of yoga, so there is definitely one out there for you. Also, if a shape doesn’t feel good, don’t do it. Explore your limits, but if it’s a no then it’s a no.
Mantra of the moment?
No one else knows what they’re doing either.
Favorite quote....
“It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing. It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.” -Oriah Mountain Dreamer, The Invitation
What the best dish you know how to cook?
Stir fry! I’m a simple cook and a simple eater, I love to snack.
What is good?
Hope.
What is god?
The feeling inside of me that is the same as the feeling inside of you.
What is Love?
Effortless, synchronicity, asks for nothing.
You can get on a plane tomorrow, where are you going?
Anywhere with a beach
What is paradise?
Feeling safe and at home in my body/
As a child did you play well with others?
Hah! I was loud, super competitive tomboy that always got in fights with boys. I was hell bent on proving that I could do anything else that they could and couldn’t ever let anything go until I proved my point.
What are the things that bring you joy in the world?
Long meals with good company, a good yoga class, teaching, spending time outside and lately, alone time. I have always been pretty social and outgoing but I’m learning just how much time I need to recharge after being around people, and I have actually begun to really enjoy it.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Hit the 57 on Heinz ketchup to make it come out faster