Hi, I’m Louise. I’m a yogi with scoliosis and a fused spine. I believe yoga can be life-changing for everyone regardless of your body shape or fitness level.
My thoracic curve appeared when I was 12. Bending over in front of my bedroom mirror and seeing my misshapen back is etched in my memory. Although severe with a significant rib rotation, it was relatively painless and didn’t stop me doing anything – at least not physically. I found yoga in my early twenties to help manage the aches, pains and tiredness that had started to creep in. For years I practised ashtanga and attended a range of dynamic classes which made me feel stronger and eased the constant compression in my ribs. As I moved into my thirties I moved into a slower practice, focusing on creating more space and alignment which did wonders for my posture; lengthening my body in a way I never thought possible. I realised Yoga was giving me so much more than pain relief: it massively increased my confidence and self-esteem. Scoliosis can have a profound psychological impact which needs to be addressed as much as the physical issues. Sadly there is a lot of shame and denial that comes with having a twisted, misshapen body. Yoga empowered me to help myself through self-compassion, understanding and acceptance. Put simply, I grew to like my back. So much so in fact, that in 2012 I decided to undertake yoga teacher training! Training with Yogacampus enabled me to deepen my own practice so that I can now share my yoga experience with others.
Unfortunately I had a severe curve and living with it was becoming more challenging as it worsened. After a tough and lengthy decision-making process I had surgery in 2016. However my yoga practice was instrumental in supporting my preparation and recovery.
Over the years, yoga has been a true friend in helping me learn to live well with scoliosis, and more recently with my fused spine. It’s the one thing that’s been with me every step of the way. I feel great in my body and most of that is down to yoga.
I teach hatha yoga and have taught in a range of settings including workplaces, charities and on retreats in Wales. I currently offer a weekly class in Urmston, Manchester and can also provide 1-1s for those looking to develop a personal practice or where a group class may not be suitable. I especially love helping people develop their yoga practice to maintain a healthy back!
Take a look at my facebook page for more up-to-date information on yoga for back care in Urmston, Manchester.
yogacurve.co.uk 