If you have been lucky enough to make one of Oceane’s classes, you will know what a calming, grounding presence she has. She expresses her love for the yoga practice through her teaching and we are so lucky to have her on our team! We sat down to interview Oceane and learn a little bit more about her - read below!
What led you to start practicing yoga? What makes you passionate about the practice?
I got dragged into my first vinyasa yoga class by an ex-boyfriend, while feeling very depressed. I really did not want to go! I hated every single moment of it but for some reason I went back, again and again until it became my routine and one of the most important things in my life.
I'm very passionate about the energetic aspect of the practice. The ability to shift and change how I feel through pranayama, or even simply being still and feeling it all.
Do you do any other activities or exercises to compliment your yoga practice?
I don't see my yoga practice as a workout for my body but rather for my mind so I absolutely train on the side. I love pilates reformers ( did you know I teach it too?) surfing, hiking or a simple walk by the beach. There are so many ways to work out but my goal is to make sure I am having fun.
How long have you been meditating and do you have a preferred style?
I have always done some kind of mindfulness practice but I'll say it's only been over the last 3 years that I got really committed.
I tend to do the same meditation practice everyday as a sadhana (40 days straight) according to what I need. Currently I am practicing a kriya meditation (or visualisation) for self love that I got given by a teacher.
How has the practice helped shape you into the person you are today?
It sounds very cliché but yoga has 100% changed the course of my life and shaped me mentally in the best possible way. Since practicing pranayama and meditation regularly I feel more anchored in my life, less affected by the constant changes and simply more present. But perhaps what I got most out of all my years of practice is the deep faith and trust I have in life. No matter what happens, I deeply know that I am always going to be ok.
What inspires you in life?
I am fascinated by the human body and mind. Our uniqueness and our interconnectedness. There is so much to learn from the tradition of yoga or even the ancient wisdom of the Chinese medicine system. I am an eternal student at heart and love learning new things, creating, sharing and gathering with the yoga community whether through classes, workshops or retreats. That's what yoga is for right?
Want to join one of Oceane’s classes?
Check out our online timetable below! Or read more about Oceane in her TIY profile here.
Author: This is Yoga