Mary Ewing-Mulligan, 64, practicing at Land Yoga for 2 1/2 years
What made you decide to try us out? Had you done yoga before?
I used to be a fairly serious recreational runner. I trained for 5 marathons, ran 3 of them, and was so proud of my accomplishment. But I had injuries along the way. In 2011, I was suffering from plantar fasciatis and a heel spur: I couldn't even walk without pain. I had just moved into the city from the suburbs and knew that I needed to find a new form of exercise. Land Yoga had just opened, just around the corner from my home. I was unfamiliar with the various types of yoga, but loved the idea of Mysore practice — the freedom of the schedule and the individual nature of the experience. That's what motivated me to join, 2 1/2 years ago.
What did you think when you first started? Did you expect to still be here now?
I was amazed at the proficiency of the other students, but I didn’t feel intimidated because the instruction was caring. I was impatient to progress quickly, but Lara took me along very slowly. “There’s always time,” she said. My impatience was a big challenge that I had to overcome. I did know that I would continue with yoga, though; I sensed that it is an activity that I could sustain for the rest of my life. What I didn’t expect was the degree to which I have embraced the practice, and how much I love it.
What do you enjoy most about the practice? What are the challenges and what do you do when you encounter them?
I enjoy the physical challenge of it, and even more so I enjoy turning my attention inward and watching how my body responds to that challenge. I love the fact that one’s practice is personal — it’s between me and myself. In that sense, it reminds me of the solitary nature of training for a marathon, which ultimately is just between you and the road.
My limited physical ability can frustrate me sometimes, and when that happens, I try to smile at my stumbling efforts and remind myself how far I’ve come. Distraction is a challenge for me on some days; I try to notice it when it happens, and use my breathing to bring myself back inward.
How has this practiced helped you outside the yoga room?
I am not the same person I was 2 ½ years ago. I feel more alive and more present in the world, instead of existing amidst the niggling anxieties within my mind. I feel younger than ever both physically and mentally. The experience has simply been transforming. I am so fortunate to be able to sip from the fountain of youth every morning!
What would you say to someone considering joining?
I would highly recommend it, of course, and I would say to stick with it even if it seems slow going at first. I would urge him or her to practice daily to gain the most benefit. In a word, I’d say, “Commit.”
Is there anything you've found unique about the experience here?
I have no basis for comparison, but I find it hard to imagine another yoga studio that combines such kind and talented teachers, such a strong community focus and such emphasis on giving and goodwill. Land Yoga not only teaches yoga but also teaches a way of life.
What you do and how people can support you?
I have a wine school in NYC, International Wine Center, (www.internationalwinecenter.