Yogi Liya D: “Yoga People Aren’t Calm, We’re All Nuts!”

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Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at Jingkids, we’re all about our readers, what they need and want in order to maximise their time here in Beijing. Every Monday, we’re going to feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.

A true gem appeared in Beijing in the spring of 2021 - a space that gathers creative, open-hearted, and open-minded people who have something in common: their interest and love for yoga and the desire to live a fulfilled, balanced life. This place is Yoga Spirit Studio, which was founded by Liya, a creative soul and a true yoga spirit herself.

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What's On Your Mind?

I think about how important it is to be grateful for this moment; for the experiences I received in the past, for all those wonderful people who walked with me on my path, for those who are in my present and those who will come in the future, for the Universe that has so many blessings for all of us.

When my path as a yoga instructor first started, I was at the point where there was only work in my life. I was burning the candle at both ends, with no time to enjoy my life or even take a breath. I finally found myself sitting on my yoga mat with questions “Do I live or just exist? When do I feel I am alive?” The answer came from within  I am most alive when I do my yoga practice, and that is a true blessing!

The decision to change my life came naturally soon after. The Universe just lined everything up in order for me to step on my new path - a path of inner freedom, creativity, constant learning, and self-exploration. Every step on the way, I had to fight my own demons until I learnt that they are my friends as well! There were lots of challenges and tests. Phew.

I saw my way clearly only 3 years after I had been in the thick of things. While walking along the Ganges, I heard a voice inside saying “I was born to yoga”. Yes, I know it’s not grammatically correct to say this way, but it rings true… Once I said it, a sense of peace entered my heart. I felt unified and whole... I am yoga, and yoga is me… It was a small miracle. Another miracle happened when the Universe helped me to establish the Yoga Spirit Studio for everyone.

What Motivates You To Get Moving?

When there is nothing else moving us, then we better move ourselves. Be aware that there is often self-deception or social manipulations behind your excuses. The energy behind motivation comes from the mind, and the human mind is unstable. I prefer to move with the flow of inspiration and the energy that comes from the heart. If inspiration needs some rest, I remind myself that yoga is a discipline.

What Keeps You Sane In The Madness?

The expected answer is Yoga, right?

Nope…I am a part of this reality we called madness, and it is a part of me. So maybe it’s better to be brave enough to embrace the insanity!

There's this misconception that yoga people are always supposed to be calm. No! We’re all here because we’re nuts! I accept it, do you?

What's Your Favorite Thing About Beijing?

I love so much about Beijing, and I’m grateful for every little thing and every little moment here. Wait, little things? Little moments? They aren’t little at all…

Have someone you believe deserves some recognition for their outstanding contributions to our community? Nominate them for our weekly spotlight by writing their name in the comments below!

Images: Courtesy of Liya

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