A yoga teacher runs a marathon

It’s done. 26.2 miles, around 60k steps in total, close to 6 hours of running.

This bucket list goal, this focus for months that has taken up rather a lot of brain space, is ticked off.

The run itself was challenging as I knew it would be, it took all my will power, self trust and compassion for my body. I practiced what I preach, allowed time for walking, fuelling, hydrating, taking it all in.

In moments that felt impossible, coming back to the breath. Up and down relentless hills, trusting my strength. Battling the elements on the seafront, practicing pratyahara (withdrawal from senses) to power through fierce winds.

My yoga practice here was essential, even if I was hundreds of miles from my mat. The kind of mindfulness I both teach and embrace in my own practice truly helped to keep me grounded in moments that could have taken over me. I’m so grateful for this mind shift, the way I remembered what works, how I applied what I know to get me to the start and finish line.

If you’re curious how yoga helps runners, let me show you. I teach at Hampton Court Palace Golf Club every Monday at 6pm. A class designed for everyday athletes, people who love to move and start their week in the best way, together.