Teacher Feature: Leslie Walker
Get to know Leslie Walker, one of our Abundant Yoga teachers! Leslie currently teaches a Be Gentle (free class) on Mondays from 7:00 – 8:00PM.
Here are a few questions to get to know Leslie a little better!
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LESLIE WALKER
Hi Leslie! Tell us a little bit about yourself (where you’re from, family, etc.)
I grew up just outside of Atlanta in Marietta, GA. That is still where almost all of my family lives (including my parents, sister, and her family). The Lord called me to move to Nashville 3-1/2 years ago (and I am still not completely certain why!). I live in Nippers Corner with my two roommates. I LOVE music; it speaks to me. I do many jobs to stay afloat, but yoga and art are my passions.
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When did you start practicing yoga? Tell us a little bit about your yoga journey.
About six years ago, my sister went through a tragedy and together, while searching for healing, we found yoga. We took one class a week at a small gym by her house. I always felt led to spend time with Jesus on my mat. We later found out that our teacher was a Christian. I’ve practiced off and on ever since.
What made you decide to go through teacher training and ultimately decide to pursue teaching?
About two years ago, I looked into teacher training because a friend of mine was teaching Christ-centered yoga, and I just thought it seemed cool. One year later, I had a rough season and knew Holy Yoga Teacher Training was exactly where God wanted me! I just felt very called.
What have you found to be the most exciting or motivating aspect of teaching?
Jesus in yoga has done SO much for me. I have experienced love, grace, healing, pain (healing hurts), truth, peace, light, and worship…all on my yoga mat. Being able to help people experience even a little of what I have is exciting to me.
What could we expect in one of your classes?
Movement, grace, and love. I also love to help people through touch for those who are comfortable with that. I like to use touch to help you find alignment (and not pain) in your practice. I also ask Jesus to help me offer light massage in exactly the way each person needs it that day.
What is your favorite class to take?
Either gentle or still, depending on the day 🙂 I also love a good Yoga Church mix!
What is your favorite class to teach?
Probably Gentle/Still, because I like teaching movement, but I also like to lead people in rest that we so rarely let ourselves have.
Do you have any plans to pursue any specialty certifications or courses?
Yes, there are so many things I want to learn! For starters, I think Trauma Sensitive Yoga is good for everyone to learn.
What is your favorite pose? And what is your least favorite pose?
Crow. I feel strong and like maybe I can fly! My least favorite is Chair!
What’s on your playlist lately?
Needtobreathe, Hillsong, David Crowder, Josh Garrels, The Liturgists, and some Jars of Clay throwback.
What is your favorite way to spend a day off?
Hanging out with friends, getting coffee & treats, and walking around outside until our feet fall off!
Leslie currently teaches a Be Gentle (free class) on Mondays from 7:00 – 8:00PM.