Meet Our New Teacher Hannah Volpi

How did you get introduced to Yoga?
A little over a decade ago.  I was living with a great friend and mentor in the wild woods of Northern California, where studios were not as accessible.  She had a daily practice, not in the sense of committed routine, but more spontaneous urges to reach for the sky or balance on fallen trees.  And not even for selfies.  The following year, I took my first studio class, bringing it all to the mat.  Well that was different!

What do you like about Power Vinyasa Flow?
You know Captain Planet?  “Let our powers combine!”  All of the elements are powerful on their own, but combine them and you’re saving the dang planet.  Movement, Breathe, Heat, and Rhythm are all powerful on their own, but bring them into harmony and you are now saving your planet.  

How has your Yoga changed since the first time you practiced?
No pressure!  I used to line myself up with a queue of expectations.  “OK. I haaaaaave to learn handstand, I’m going to nail it by the end of the month.”  Too funny!  Why?  Now I just play in the moment, and let my body be.  I still work on this daily, but as soon as I’m able to let go of obsessing over physical aspects, it opens up more space to explore the other limbs of yoga.  Our physical body is only ONE part!

Why did you decide to teach Yoga?
I can’t remember a moment where I decided.  I do remember reaching out to a lot of the wonderful teachers in my community, about their opinions on trainings.  It naturally fell into place as a next step, as things to do when you lead with your heart.

Any tips for someone new to Yoga?
HIGH FIVE!  Way to go.  You made it.  That’s the hardest part.  Now, just enjoy getting to know yourself.  

What is your favorite pose or poses? Why?
Wild Child!  A funky way to marry an open vulnerable heart with a strong trusted foundation.

What do you like to do off the yoga mat?
I love to grow!   I design gardens, grow gardens, graze gardens.   Maybe one day I will live in a greenhouse.  I also spend a lot of time in the woods.  I guide Naturalist hikes and am so jazzed to share the wisdom and wonders of the wild.   I also work in the Agriculture & Agri-tourism sector in various capacities, and feel super passionate and proud of this region’s Farm to Table initiative.  My favorite movie is Hot Rod.  I YouTube clips of it constantly.  Too funny to me!!  

What fuels you?
Water!  Cold Water!    Swimming.   Across the lake, jumping off the boat, dippin in gorges,.  Spray me with the hose!   Eye washing stations are the best… for emergencies of course ;)

What makes you Mighty?
I laugh at myself.