GILI NIR

WHAT DREW YOU TO KATONAH YOGA?

I had so many questions that weren't fully addressed in a vinyasa setting. I wanted to know how the body connected and refracted, how to find economy in my movement, how to play my neurology to transcend my pathologies, and I dreamed of having a cohesive esoteric map. It was magical coming to a Katonah class and getting that information. Katonah gave me a verbal and physical framework to play within. In both the physical practice and theory, I've found that each piece truly fulfills its function and when things add up like that they make sense and that is deeply healing. 

HOW HAS KATONAH CHANGED YOUR PRACTICE & TEACHING?

In my own practice, I have gained so much from the materials' clarity around fit and measure. Its given me the tools to be organized and set myself up well. I've also gained an understanding of the function of each pose and breath technique so I can use them intentionally. With clear intention, each moment of practice becomes absorbing and rich. I strive to use this understanding in my teaching as well. I started seriously studying and teaching yoga soon after I discovered Katonah.  As a teacher, it’s given me the means with which to recognize students' needs and proclivities and the tools with which to give them good support and good techniques. I love this material so much and its existence has motivated me to teach.

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN KATONAH CHANGE STUDENTS?

The first change I see with students, is how good they feel in their bodies and minds. It’s somewhat simple, but it is a huge experience to be framed up well and supported. The practice is designed around the functions of stability, mobility, capacity and vision - the faculties of the body. The difference between having those things, even working towards those things - and living in fear and disorientation, is HUGE. Subverting physical patterns is a paradigm shift: mind-opening, empowering and healing. At first, the self-awareness that the practice creates may become self-consciousness, but it has the potential to develop deep-rooted self-acceptance and self-respect. I've seen students use the maps that the theory provides to develop in new ways. Orientation is a tool that emboldens students to design their lives more intentionally and joyfully.