Asana and Answers with Tanya Skok Hobbs

What inspired you to become a yoga instructor?

I had just finished my Masters and gotten a great job in my field working overseas. I had been in the job about 2 years and I started feeling isolated and lonely. In addition, I began suffering from some severe low back pain due to an old injury I had sustained playing a varsity sport in University. I had started practicing yoga about 5 years prior, however, I saw yoga more as a “stretching” system to counter all the running and cycling I was doing.

Due to my low back issue, I was told not to run or cycle and running was one of my only outlets. So, I made a commitment to practice yoga every day. I only had access to online classes so I started doing online classes daily and I was absolutely astounded when my entire perspective shifted after a relatively short period of time just from doing yoga. Everything else had remained the same. So, I made the decision, to do my teacher training, quit my job and start leading a more passion filled life. I just wanted to share what yoga had given me with others and the practice just continues to expand. It’s truly phenomenal.

How would you describe your style of yoga?

I teach a vinyasa (flow) style of yoga. I am very much interested in the linking of breath with movement and how that feels and what that can elicit. I am also very drawn to the practices of chanting and mantra, which I never thought that I would be, however, they offer such a beautiful way to drop into the body and the heart.

What advice would you give to someone who is wanting to start practicing yoga?

Just start. I am not a naturally “flexible” person. Yoga is not for flexible people. It is for humans. If you feel drawn to take a class to it. Find a teacher you like and practice.

How do the surroundings influence your classes when you practice yoga at the gondola?

Being able to teach at the toe of the gondola I think really presents a unique opportunity to be surrounded by nature, which we are a part of. It helps everyone ground and connect more to their breath, as well as providing an incredible atmosphere to teach in. We live in such a spectacular part of the world and it’s a pleasure to share that with others.

Describe your perfect day in Squamish.

Coffee at home with a tasty breakfast, seeing friends, connecting to community at the studio, a bike ride, lake swim and of course a yoga practice.