Taking Yoga personally

By: Jan XiXian Tan

A young lass sitting in the lotus position, eyes closed, murmuring a protracted “Om”- this is what many people picture when they think of meditation.

“We’ve never learnt to manage our mind and thoughts (properly),” says Joanne, “but in yoga, this will be taught.”

Episodes of her yoga life glow at the age of 25.

Joanne, 25, Yoga Master

Initially, Joanne wanted to get pregnant and saw yoga as a way to maintain her physique.

After watching yoga practitioners at work, Joanne felt convinced that yoga would be of help to her.

After three years, Joanne dedicated herself to yoga professionally.

Now, Joanne is one of the judges in the Malaysian Yoga Society.

“It took me about 10 years to become a certified practitioner (even though) I used to be an athlete, actively involved in table tennis, squash and running,” she said.

Joanne opened her first yoga center in 2003, at Glenmarie Sport Club, which is located in the premises of a renowned public listed company. 

Joanne's Yoga students

“I was given the opportunity to work so closely with the sport club,” she added.

Joanne’s demeanor is full of grace and charm, triggers all yogis to come for the next class.

Joanne always goes the extra mile to rekindle the spirit of oneness in her students.  

She has a well-defined character which does not give a second thought about what she thinks is right.

“I’m able to learn everything that I can while I take failure and losses as experience,” she added.

Similarly, Joanne goes to great lengths to break down the barrier between her students through her greetings, making a selfless effort to forge an affinity between students and instructor whenever she met one.

No matter young or old, her students click naturally with her because of her politeness and ability to strike up a friendly conversation.

Joanne concluded: “If I’m still alive at the age of 80 and still able to move, I will continue to teach yoga.”