Lizzie Newland
Movement has always been a central part of my life, but my relationship to it has changed drastically over the years. As a kiddo, movement looked like gymnastics, trampoline and swimming (I still adore all of these). I remember feeling so in touch, so empowered in my physical being. That power slowly slipped through my fingertips, though, as the weight of diet culture and social standards for what my body “should” look like became very heavy. I saw my body as an object that needed to change in order to be “good” and worthy. In college, I picked up a highly regimented gym routine, developed an eating disorder, body dysmorphia, the whole gambit. Then, after years of having an unsatisfying relationship with my body, things started to slowly shifted. First, came vulnerability with people who loved me, letting them know where I’m at and asking for help (SO TOUGH). Then, I ditched the gym routine and started seeking movement that made me feel like I was treating my body with love and kindness. I slowly gained my power and ownership back over this beautiful vessel of mine. Yoga was a MASSIVE part of that shift. This practice showed me how to love my body for all that it has to offer. The intersection of compassion and empowerment, with physiology and function, creates absolute MAGIC. It taught me how to listen to the wisdom of my body - honoring cues like hunger, fatigue, desire etc. Mindful movement became a form of therapy for me, healing how I viewed myself, my body, and the world around me. I knew I wanted to share this with others, which lead me to get my 200 hr YTT here at Willow Gardens in Fall 2021.
Today I advocate for the holistic benefits of yoga, incorporating connection to mind, body, soul, and spirit. In class, I love to challenge mental strength, shift perspective and build confidence on our mats, as these will carry us through life off the mat. I also love love LOVE all things spiritual, as well as yogic philosophy. My background is in psychology, and I am currently pursuing a master's in Therapeutic Recreation. I hope to use yoga as a therapeutic intervention to help heal people's relationships with food and their bodies.
I am passionate about movement that drives laughter, connection with self and others, and getting out of your comfort zone! In class, you can expect to get strong, sweaty, goof around, and become great friends!