Meet Illinois native Kristina Reese. Reese is a full time yogi — practicing, teaching, and living the lifestyle she loves. “I started doing yoga in college and have been teaching since 2011. My background is in the Ashtanga style, a dynamic and meditative physical practice that challenges you to stretch your limits and, in turn, discover more about yourself.” While yoga can certainly be seen as an athletic endeavor, Reese says the benefits can be found in more than just the physical workout. “In addition to the poses, or asanas, yoga teaches breathing, meditation, concentration, selflessness, and many ethical and spiritual guidelines to guide the yogi on a loving and righteous path.”
Reese found her way to the art of yoga through unconventional means. During college, she sustained an injury while cheerleading, and yoga became part of her physical therapy. She fondly recalls the teacher she was working with, a woman named Sue, and quickly realized that there was “something” about Sue that piqued her interest and drew her further in. “That something is what really kept me in yoga. Physically it was invigorating and challenging and fun, but what I appreciated about yoga is that it brought (an awareness of) being present in your body and not worrying about trying to compete and be compared to someone else, but rather trying to see how you felt when you were in a challenging place. Can I work through this? How do I feel mentally and physically?”
Extended Side Angle
Bound Side Angle
What started as a road to recovery for Reese turned into a passion, and she has manifested that passion into a career. In addition to giving private lessons, Reese currently teaches classes at three different locations: The Refinery in Champaign, Amara Yoga & Arts in Urbana, and Twist and Shout in Mahomet. Class sizes range anywhere between 4 and 30 students. “Yoga has helped me find a sense of confidence and peace and I strive to share that with students,” she said. “As an instructor, I want students to come away from yoga practice with confidence, feeling strong, challenged, and aware both mentally and physically. I what them to be okay with whatever unfolds in their yoga experience. Okay with frustrations, proud of progress, and encouraged to keep learning.”
Eagle Pose
Lotus Pose
Revolved Head-to-Knee Pose
Reese believes that yoga is all inclusive; one does not need to fit a particular mold to participate or reap the rewards. “Yoga can be for anyone! There are as many different types of yoga as there are types of people, and if you’re willing to explore and become dedicated to the practice the benefits are innumerable!”
Baby Grasshopper
Plow Pose
For more information regarding classes and instruction, visit Reese’s website.