Past yogis of the month...

We posed a few questions to our yogis of the month and this is what they had to say:

Sabina, Isabelle and Raelani

How old are you?
Sabina: 13
Isabelle: 10
Raelani: 7
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Sabina: athletic, fun-loving, encouraging
Isabelle: out there!
Raelani: loves to dance and do yoga
Describe your teacher in 3 words.
Sabina: different, original, has a lot of character
Isabelle: crazy, funny, loving
Raelani: nice, funny
Why do you like going to yoga?
Sabina: It has a non-stress environment.
Isabelle: It really relaxes me.
Raelani: It's fun and relaxing.
Do you have a favorite pose?
Sabina: The massage pose - savasana.
Isabelle: firefly
Raelani: handstands
What is your favorite part about yoga class?
Sabina: The massage part.
Isabelle: Seeing all the crazy things Mary Kaye does!!
Raelani: moves
What is the most outrageous thing you ever saw during yoga class?
Sabina: I've never seen anything outrageous but I've heard stories that I missed!
Isabelle: When Mary Kaye did crow on her fingertips!
Raelani: Funky music.
Have you ever used yoga outside of class?
Sabina: I don't have time!
Isabelle: In my room with music and a yoga mat!
Raelani: At my house!
What's an important message you learned from yoga?
Sabina: Even on a rough day, you can still find a way to relax.
Isabelle: Not to run every where and start screaming and letting out all your anger. Instead, you just relax.
Raelani: I can do a lot of things now.

Gabrielle and Isabella

How old are you and how would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Gabrielle: 12
Isabella: 8
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Gabrielle: Athletic, Fun, Talkative.
Isabella: Funny, Loud, Weird.
Describe your teacher in 3 words.
Gabrielle: Crazy, Funny, and Loud.
Isabella: Awesome, Crazy, and Nice.
What made you want to take yoga? Was it your idea or your parents?
Gabrielle: My knees were really bothering me whenever I ran so my parents thought it would be good for me. Also some of my friends did it and loved it so I thought it would be fun.
Isabella: I had done yoga before and didn't like it. I had heard that it was really fun with Mary Kaye so I decided to try it.
Why do you like going to yoga?
Gabrielle: I like going to yoga because it is really fun.
Isabella: I like going to yoga because it is really relaxing and Mary Kaye is really funny.
Was yoga surprising in any way?
Gabrielle: When I can go in really stressed about something and come out not even thinking about it.
Isabella: When I can do really hard poses that I thought I couldn't do.
Do you have a favorite pose?
Gabrielle: Camel.
Isabella: Savasana and crow.
What is your favorite part about yoga class?
Gabrielle: Savasana because it is so relaxing.
Isabella: Savasana because you get a massage on your neck.
How do you feel after class? Describe the feeling in 2 words if you can.
Gabrielle: Relaxed and Stretched.
Isabella: Unstressed and happy.
What is the most outrageous thing you ever saw during yoga class?
Gabrielle: When Mary Kaye was pretending to be a back up dancer to a song that was playing.
Isabella: When Mary Kaye did Scorpion.
Have you ever used yoga outside of class? If so, how?
Gabrielle: Sometimes when I feel really tight I do some yoga poses to stretch me out. I also do it sometimes to relax myself.
Isabella: I do it when I am bored and have nothing else to do.

The Guiffre kids

How old are you and how would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Troy: I am six. I am happy, funny, and crazy.
Brooke: I am eight. I am funny, athletic and nice.
Max: I am ten. I am athletic, kind and loving.
Madison: I am eleven. I am kind, generous and funny.
Were you excited or nervous to start yoga?
Troy: I had been begging my mom to sign me up for a year.
Brooke: Both. I was nervous to meet new people but I was excited to do yoga with my friend Nicole.
Max: I was nervous because I had never done it before.
Madison: I was excited because it sounded like fun, and I knew Mary Kaye was great from lacrosse.
Was yoga what you expected? What were some surprises?
Troy: Yes, it was what I expected.
Brooke: Yes, it was what I expected. I was surprised at how quickly I improved each week.
Max: It was much better than I expected it to be.
Madison: I was surprised at how relaxing it is and how easy it is to learn
What is your favorite yoga pose?
Troy: Easy question. I love shark and crow.
Brooke: Downward Dog is my favorite, and crow is the easiest for me.
Max: Plow. I sometimes do it when I am home.
Madison: The one where you lie down on your back and sink into the mat. It is awesome.
Did you find anything hard about yoga?
Troy: It was hard when Mary Kaye first taught me crow, but after 8 tries I got it.
Brooke: Only when my brothers fool around, and I can't concentrate.
Max: Not Really.
Madison: Some of the poses are challenging.
Have you used yoga in other areas of your life besides the yoga studio?
Troy: Yes. I sometime do breathing before a swim race, and when I do, I swim really fast.
Brooke: Yes. I got into poses once at a soccer tournament to relax and get focused. My friend and I each got into crow. We both scored goals that game.
Max: Yes. Yesterday before my swim meet, I used the breathing to help me get calm and relaxed.
Madison: Yes. Sometimes I meditate before I have to take a test.
Have you ever taught your parents any yoga?
Troy: I tried, but they can't do it. My dad tried crow, and he almost broke his back and split his pants. It cracked me up.
Brooke: I taught my parents fish, plank, and downward dog. They couldn't do crow.
Max: I tried but they were not very good.
Madison: No, but my brothers and sister tried. My dad could use yoga to calm down!
Why do you think your teacher Mary Kaye likes yoga so much?
Troy: Because she is flexible and has ALMOST as much energy as me.
Brooke: I think Mary Kaye likes yoga because it calms her down.
Max: She likes yoga because it calms her down.
Madison: Mary Kaye likes yoga because it is fun and it keeps her healthy.
What is your favorite part about yoga class?
Troy: I love it when we play the yoga game.
Brooke: I love Savasana. It is so relaxing.
Max: Definitely the massage!
Madison: I like it when we do partner poses.
Describe Mary Kaye in 3 words.
Troy: Funny, energetic and flexible.
Brooke: Funny, talented, and nice.
Max: ENERGETIC, ENERGETIC, AND ENERGETIC.
Madison: Happy, loving, funny, kind, and caring.

Lindsay Flaherty

How would you describe yourself in three words? Kind, Crazy, Funny.
How long have you been doing yoga? I have been doing yoga since I was 7 and a half, and I am 12 and a half now, so around 5 years.
What made you want to try yoga in the first place? My mom did yoga for awhile, so I wanted to try it too! It seemed like a creative and fun thing to do.
How would you describe your teacher? My yoga teacher (Mary Kaye) is so funny, and is one of the many reasons I do yoga. She always makes me laugh, and she believes in me. She gives me confidence and encouragement inside and outside of yoga.
Having hobbies helps you avoid pettiness and makes life interesting. What are some of your hobbies? Sports are the thing that takes up most of my time. I play lacrosse, tennis, basketball and soccer. Other hobbies I have are doing yoga, watching football, hanging out with all my friends and reading.
What is your favorite yoga pose? I love a lot of poses! My favorites change every time but I always LOVE pigeon and camel. I can really stretch out in those poses, and it feels good! Chatarunga is also very fun for me, because when I first learned it I couldn't do it. Now I have learned to build my core and I can do it fairly easily.
Have you ever thought about teaching your family yoga? I have taught my brother, and he knows some of the poses. He likes it too! I have taught my cousin, my aunt, my great aunt and grandmother in the past as well.
What is the most interesting thing that has happened in your yoga class? I think one of the most fun things we did was when we had an African Dance Party! That was so fun. We had drums, cupcakes, and danced around the room to African music with the whole class as a going away party for one of the yogis.
Have you used yoga outside of the class? How? Sometimes when I feel tight and need to stretch, I go immediately into camel. It helps my back and I love it! When I want to relax, I'll try to focus on my breathing. I especially use that if I have to go up in front of a crowd, or before I take a test.
Can you explain how yoga has helped you in life? Ever since I have been doing yoga I have felt like more of a brighter person. It made me look at things differently, and in a more positive way. It has also made me more relaxed, and not to mention flexible. Flexibility especially helps me in sports. Whether it's running up and down the field or hitting the tennis ball hard. I'm so glad I have taken up yoga, because the results have been nothing but positive!

Lindsay

How old are you? I am 10 years old.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words? I am happy, nice and cheerful.
How long have you practiced yoga? I have practiced yoga for over 2 years.
What made you start yoga in the first place? My mom thought yoga was a good way to relax.
Was there anything that surprised you about yoga? Every time I go into yoga class, I feel a bit more flexible than I did in the class before. Also, on some days I am able to hold poses for a long time and on other days I can barely hold the same pose for one second!
What is your favorite part about yoga class? My favorite part of yoga is Savasana.
What is the most outrageous thing you have seen in your yoga class? When Mary Kaye tried to drink water with her feet while sitting down.
Do you have a favorite pose? Crow pose.
Does your family do yoga? Just my mom and me.
Can you see how yoga might benefit you in life? I think it can benefit my life because I get stressed out easily, and yoga helps that a lot!
If you could go anywhere and do yoga, where would it be? I would like to do yoga at the Caribbean because it is really relaxing.

Maggie

How old are you? I am 15 years old.
When did you start doing yoga? I started doing yoga with my mom in the summer when I was 11. She would drag me to the old lady yoga class, and they were very serious and intense for my age.
What attracted you to yoga? I was attracted to yoga when I heard some friends were taking a teen class. I thought that a teen class would be more accepting but I soon learned any yoga class is accepting but its definitely more fun to be around kids my own age.
Is yoga what you expected? Yoga is definitely not what I expected because I used to be a dancer, and dance is very judgmental. If you can't do something, you're not good enough but in yoga you are getting a great workout at the same time as increasing your flexibility while the whole time you're in a zone free of judgment. You can try and fail without being looked down upon.
What do you love about yoga? My favorite part of yoga is definitely the comfort I have in the class. I have so much confidence in the class and I know that there is no judgment so embarrassment doesn't faze me in the class. If I fail in a pose, I don't worry and move on and try it again. Since I have started taking yoga, I apply this confidence to everyday.
Do you have a favorite pose? My favorite yoga pose is really hard to pick because I love a lot of them. For example, I love pigeon, camel, crow and chaturanga. I like these poses because when I first learned them, I hated them but when I learned to breathe through the pose, it became comfortable. Now I actually try more advanced versions of the poses.
Anything surprising ever happen in yoga class? The most surprising event that has ever occurred in yoga would have to be when I used my yoga confidence to befriend the teen reporter from "Teen Kids News". He came to tape our class for a TV show and was really nice. Tyler and I still keep in touch.
What is the best advice your teacher ever gave you? My yoga teacher told me that I have a lot of thoughts running through my head, and I need to let them go and relax, practice ujjayii breathing, and find ways to still the mind to achieve peace.
Have you used yoga outside of class? I haven't used any poses outside of class but I do use my yoga breath when I am hot headed, doing homework, taking a test, or just need time to myself.
What advice would you give someone who is afraid to try yoga? I have tried to get some friends to do yoga but a lot of them are afraid or embarrassed to try something new or something they think they will fail at. Most of my friends say I can teach them and I will but I think that the environment the classes are held in is a major ingredient to a perfect yoga experience so I would say invite a friend that won't distract you and try it!!
Do you think yoga helps you stop thinking about the Jonas Brothers all the time? I will have to admit that yoga makes me think about the Jonas Brothers on impulse but then I get distracted by the breath and poses that my concentration becomes fixed on yoga, and the Jonas Brothers are no where to be found.

Ashton Chryssicas

How old are you? I am 12 years old.
How long have you practiced yoga? I have been doing it since preschool around 8 or so years.
What is your favorite part about yoga class? I like EVERYTHING but I also like when we chant OMMMM and savasana.
What is your favorite yoga pose? My favorite yoga pose is hard to say because I really like camel, headstand, crow, scorpion etc (strength building poses) but also I like reverse half moon because it is sometimes a challenge for me.
Can you tell us an example of how you use yoga in your life? I was in kindergarten and was on the bus but no one was waiting for me at my bus stop when it was time to get off. I was really scared and so I started doing my yoga breathing as I sat on the bus. I did that until I reached the school again, and my mom picked me up there. She wasn't at the bus stop because my sister was REALLY sick and the bus wasn't on time so she went to check on her.
Has anyone done anything crazy in yoga class? YES!!!!! In Fact, I have done crazy things too!!!! EVERYTHING is fun and crazy yet peaceful in yoga class.
Do you have a special talent? HMMMMM a special talent would be... I can make a really good monkey cry impression. But my best special talent is probably helping others.
What shocks you the most about yoga class? What shocks me most about yoga is that yoga can be REALLY fun, and you might think it is serious stuff but really in this class, you do yoga in a fun loving way and still find peace.
Why do you love going to yoga? I LOVE going to yoga because it releases negative energy, tension, and stress which really can do wonders!!! It makes me feel incredible, and when I don't do yoga in a while I feel like a VERY tight stick! I couldn't imagine life without yoga. Also, it really helps me fix my problems in life. It gets my mind off of the real world and into a world where I can relax.
What would you tell someone who is afraid to try yoga? I would say you're WASTING time not trying yoga! You might not realize it but stress gets stuck in parts of your body where you don't stretch, and it builds tension making you cranky!! It puts me in a great mood and hopefully it will do the same for you!!! So get moving and DO SOME YOGA!!!

Ashley Freeman

When did you start yoga? I started yoga about 1 year ago.
What do you love about yoga? How does it make you feel? It makes me feel calmer, but energized. Looser and not as tight. I love the breathing part because that calms me down when I am nervous.
Does your family do yoga? My sister does yoga once in a while and my mom tries to do it but can't always get to it.
Is yoga what you expected? I thought yoga was going to be "different" or weird, but its really fun!
How would you describe yourself? Three words to describe myself: random, caring/kind and sometimes funny.
What was the biggest surprise you had in class? When someone's legs got wrapped around Mary Kaye's head.
What was your best experience in yoga class? The breathing and how it calms you down. I also love to hear Mary Kaye's stories!
What is your favorite pose? One of my favorite poses is frog because it's comfortable and a good stretch.
Have you ever taught someone a yoga pose to get them hooked? What was it? Yes, I tried teaching someone pigeon because most people like that. I tried showing/teaching someone chaturanga to make them see how hard it actually is.
How old are you? I am 12 years old.
Do you think you'll do yoga forever? Yes I think I will.

Katie

What grade are you in? Are you mature for your age? I am in 6th grade and I don't think I am mature for my age because I am wild and crazy!
How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Phenomenal, outgoing, hilarious.
You seem to have a good sense of self? What is your secret? Yoga!
When did you first discover yoga and what was your impression of it? I first discovered yoga when I was nine years old. I thought it was a lot of fun, especially the teacher!
Why did you feel any connection with your teacher? Because Mary Kaye and I are both very crazy.
Is there anything unusual about your teacher? Yes, she is very hyper, especially for a grownup. I would describe her as positive, funny and full of energy.
Do you teach your family yoga after class ever? Yes, I taught them Child's pose to get them non-stressed. They were not amused.
What is your favorite pose? Crow because it is cool looking.
If you had to fall asleep in a yoga pose which one would it be? Pigeon because it is very comfortable to sleep in. (Trust me I have tried it.)
Have you ever needed to use your yoga breathing outside of class? Why? Yes, before I went up to the free throw line in a championship basketball game.
If you had to convince someone to try yoga who is totally scared to try it, what would you say? I would say it is a blast, and you will have a lot of fun with Mary Kaye.

Emma

When did you first start yoga? Kindergarten
How old are you? 8.5 years old
How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Funny, nice, and happy.
How would you describe your teacher in 3 words? Funny, nice, and helpful.
Why did you want to take yoga? To calm me down.
What was the biggest surprise you had about yoga? My teacher.
Do you have a favorite pose? Dancer's pose.
Have you ever used yoga outside of class? Yes
Why do you think others could benefit from yoga? To calm them down!
If someone said something mean to you, what would you do? Breathe and walk away.
I hear laughter is good medicine. What made you laugh the hardest in yoga class? Mary Kaye's embarrassing stories.

Graham

How old are you and how long have you done yoga? 8 years old; this is my 2nd year of yoga.
What got you interested in yoga in the first place? My back was always sore (I had back surgery in kindergarten) and mom thought the yoga might help.
What makes you wanting more yoga? It helps my back a lot and it's lots of fun!
What are some of your favorite poses? The Crow is my favorite; I also like it when Mary Kaye massages the tension out of my neck!
How would you describe your yoga class to others who are interested in trying yoga? Lots of fun!
How would you describe your teacher? She's really funny and good at yoga.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Nice, funny and happy!
Have you introduced yoga to your family? I've tried to teach them some poses but my mom needs a lot more practice at it!
Every now and then, do you feel like busting into volcano pose? Yes!!

The Wellesley Division I Sixth Grade Soccer Team

What grade is your team? We are all 6th graders.
Why does the team like yoga so much? Because right before the game it relaxes you. Meditation: It works.
We hear you're an amazing team. What's your secret? Yoga and all our teammates really support each other and give positive feedback. No one would ever say, "Kate, what were you thinking!?"
How could Mary Kaye possibly relax this soccer team? No offense, but you seem hyper. What? Us hyper (said jumping up and down). She massages our heads and gets us to clear nervous energy and redirect it. Then we spring into action!

Rebecca

What grade are you in? 6th grade
What is your favorite pose? Shoulder Stand!
What attracts you to yoga? I love that yoga is super fun, and it gets me relaxed.
What is your favorite part about yoga class? I love how Mary Kaye always tells us crazy stories in class!
Having hobbies helps you avoid pettiness. What are your hobbies? Yoga, sewing, art, softball.
We hear you are an amazing person. How would you describe yourself? Aritistic, quiet and yoga-loving!!

Dana

What is your favorite yoga pose? The Number Four!!
What do you love about yoga? I love the relaxation part.
How long have you been practicing yoga? I have been doing yoga for 2 years. I got started because my mom did it and she told me I would love it!
How would you describe yourself? Caring, helpful, fun to be around.
How would you describe your teacher? Mary Kaye is a relaxed, calm person.

the Fabulous Sisters, Haley and Hilary

Why do you girls just love yoga?
Hilary: I love yoga because it's relaxing.
Haley: I love yoga because I get to meet new friends. The people are very nice.
What is the funniest thing that ever happened in Mary Kaye's yoga class?
Hilary: Mary Kaye's son accidentally stepped on the candle and his whole foot got wrapped with wax. He didn't even feel it! Mary Kaye said some yogis can completely tune out the pain. Her son is one of them.
Haley: Definitely when Grant stepped on the candle. Wax was everywhere!
What is your favorite yoga pose?
Hilary: Wheel!
Haley: Savasana
When did you start yoga?
Hilary: I am 8 years old and started this past year.
Haley: I am 10 years old and started in January.
How would you describe yourself? Do crazy kids do yoga?
Hilary: Energetic, flexible and funny.
Haley: Happy, excited and kind.
How does yoga help?
Hilary: It calms me down and makes me less hyper.
Haley: It helps me not get stressed up during tests.

Alexandra

What grade are you in? 6th grade.
How long have you been doing yoga? For at least a year.
What is your favorite yoga pose? Crow pose.
Why do you love yoga? I love yoga because it's a fun, relaxing exercise.
What is the oddest thing that ever happened in class? When Mary Kaye decides to teach the whole class in a heavy Southern accent. She's teaching in Boston!!!!
How would you describe yourself? Super nice, passionate about life and fun loving.
Mary Kaye always says hobbies make interesting people. What are your hobbies? Yoga, basketball and sewing.
When is your birthday? April 22nd.

Sophie Hester

How old are you? Ma ma
What is your favorite yoga pose? Da da
How long have you been doing yoga? 2 months
How does it make you feel? Ga ga
Is I Love Yoga an inspiration to your yoga practice? Ma ma
Do you think you'll be doing yoga forever? Ya ya

Lindsey Renner

What grade are you in? 4th grade
When did you start yoga? 1st grade
How did you discover yoga? My good friend, Anna, was doing it, and she loved it.
How would you describe yourself in 3 words? fun, creative, smart
How would you describe your yoga teacher in 1 word? Crazy!
What was your first impression of yoga? It seemed harder than it is now.
Do you have a favorite part of class? When we play Jump Yoga -- it's a game that helps you remember the poses.
What is your favorite pose? Dancer's Pose
Does anyone else in your family do yoga? My mom and two older sisters. We are all fans!
What about your dog? Gigi does a great downward dog!

Lauren Dillon

What grade are you in? 5th grade
When did you start yoga? Over two years ago.
What is your favorite pose? One legged crow.
Have you ever made up a yoga pose and if so what did you call it? Yes, I made up a very difficult squat and called it Potty pose. The class loved it.
What surprised you about yoga class? I didn't know it could be funny and serious. Mary Kaye is the funniest and most loveable.
Does anything odd ever happen to you to cause you to use your yoga breathing? Yes, when my brothers beat me up and when I don't feel good.
Have you encouraged your family to do the bundle roll late at night? Yes, of course I have but they ignored me.
Weren't you the girl that helped Mary Kaye find that compelling Mia Hamm quote for her recent book? Oh that quote? Of course. The fabulous Lauren Dillon did!

the Blond Sisters

What grade are you in?
Lilah: first grade
Phoebe: 4th grade
Chloe: 4th grade
When did you start yoga?
Lilah: kindergarten
Phoebe: kindergarten
Chloe: kindergarten
Is yoga what you thought it would be?
Lilah: Yes.
Phoebe: Yes about so.
Chloe: Yes.
What do you love about yoga?
Lilah: We have a great teacher who makes it fun, and we are trying something new.
Phoebe: I love how much fun it is and how it relaxes me.
Chloe: I think that it is really fun.
Do you have a favorite pose?
Lilah: Wheel.
Phoebe: Headstand.
Chloe: Camel pose.
Has Mary Kaye ever done anything shocking in class?
Lilah: Yes. When she was in Triangle pose, she bumped her hip back and started shaking her booty.
Phoebe: Where do I start? There's the Yoga Chicken she brings to class. And when we do jump yoga, she is a "background dancer."
Chloe: Dancing in frog pose which is kind of weird because she gets out of control and can't stop.
Do you actually feel like a dog in Downward Dog?
Lilah: Yes, I feel like a dog wagging it's tail.
Phoebe: Not exactly.
Chloe: No, because I am not a dog and cannot imagine what being a dog feels like!
How would you describe yoga class to someone who has never tried?
Lilah: Fun, soothing, relaxing -- not like the sit and stretch we do in gym class.
Phoebe: Fun, soothing, a very happy place.
Chloe: Fun -- when you come out you feel calm and tired, good inside.

Ginny

What made you decide to take a yoga class? I decided to take a yoga class because I like to calm down with Mary Kaye.
What do you love about yoga? I love yoga because I can calm down if I am stressed.
Do you have a favorite pose? My favorite pose is firefly.
Did anything unusual happen at your yoga birthday party? Yes, something unusual did happen! My Dad dressed up as Spiderman when we were doing Savasana and rubbing oils on our necks.
Do you have any other family members (dogs included) who do yoga? My mom tries yoga, my dad likes to try, and my brother doesn't.
How would you describe yourself? I am crazy. I like to party. I am a nice friend. I think I'm fun.
What do you have in common with your yoga teacher Mary Kaye? Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha... We both are crazy, we both like to party, we are both fun, and MK is a nice friend.

Katie Corscadden

What grade are you in? I'm a 5th grader.
What is your favorite part of yoga? Sitting on Mary Kaye's shoulders.
What is your favorite pose? Mermaid pose - it's a side plank yoga position.
What was your biggest surprise in yoga class? When Mary Kaye let me teach the class!!
How have you learned to calm yourself down? I relax my body by lying on my back on my mat.
Who else have you introduced yoga to? My brother, Jay and sister, Keely.



	Past yogis of the month... We posed a few questions to our yogis of the month and this is what they had to say: Sabina, Isabelle and Raelani How old are you? Sabina: 13 Isabelle: 10 Raelani: 7 Describe yourself in 3 words. Sabina: athletic, fun-loving, encouraging Isabelle: out there! Raelani: loves to dance and do yoga Describe your teacher in 3 words. Sabina: different, original, has a lot of character Isabelle: crazy, funny, loving Raelani: nice, funny Why do you like going to yoga? Sabina: It has a non-stress environment. Isabelle: It really relaxes me. Raelani: It's fun and relaxing. Do you have a favorite pose? Sabina: The massage pose - savasana. Isabelle: firefly Raelani: handstands What is your favorite part about yoga class? Sabina: The massage part. Isabelle: Seeing all the crazy things Mary Kaye does!! Raelani: moves What is the most outrageous thing you ever saw during yoga class? Sabina: I've never seen anything outrageous but I've heard stories that I missed! Isabelle: When Mary Kaye did crow on her fingertips! Raelani: Funky music. Have you ever used yoga outside of class? Sabina: I don't have time! Isabelle: In my room with music and a yoga mat! Raelani: At my house! What's an important message you learned from yoga? Sabina: Even on a rough day, you can still find a way to relax. Isabelle: Not to run every where and start screaming and letting out all your anger. Instead, you just relax. Raelani: I can do a lot of things now. Gabrielle and Isabella We posed a few questions to our yogi sisters of the month and this is what they had to say: How old are you and how would you describe yourself in 3 words? Gabrielle: 12 Isabella: 8 Describe yourself in 3 words. Gabrielle: Athletic, Fun, Talkative. Isabella: Funny, Loud, Weird. Describe your teacher in 3 words. Gabrielle: Crazy, Funny, and Loud. Isabella: Awesome, Crazy, and Nice. What made you want to take yoga? Was it your idea or your parents? Gabrielle: My knees were really bothering me whenever I ran so my parents thought it would be good for me. Also some of my friends did it and loved it so I thought it would be fun. Isabella: I had done yoga before and didn't like it. I had heard that it was really fun with Mary Kaye so I decided to try it. Why do you like going to yoga? Gabrielle: I like going to yoga because it is really fun. Isabella: I like going to yoga because it is really relaxing and Mary Kaye is really funny. Was yoga surprising in any way? Gabrielle: When I can go in really stressed about something and come out not even thinking about it. Isabella: When I can do really hard poses that I thought I couldn't do. Do you have a favorite pose? Gabrielle: Camel. Isabella: Savasana and crow. What is your favorite part about yoga class? Gabrielle: Savasana because it is so relaxing. Isabella: Savasana because you get a massage on your neck. How do you feel after class? Describe the feeling in 2 words if you can. Gabrielle: Relaxed and Stretched. Isabella: Unstressed and happy. What is the most outrageous thing you ever saw during yoga class? Gabrielle: When Mary Kaye was pretending to be a back up dancer to a song that was playing. Isabella: When Mary Kaye did Scorpion. Have you ever used yoga outside of class? If so, how? Gabrielle: Sometimes when I feel really tight I do some yoga poses to stretch me out. I also do it sometimes to relax myself. Isabella: I do it when I am bored and have nothing else to do. The Guiffre kids We posed a few questions to our yogi family of the month and this is what they had to say: How old are you and how would you describe yourself in 3 words? Troy: I am six. I am happy, funny, and crazy. Brooke: I am eight. I am funny, athletic and nice. Max: I am ten. I am athletic, kind and loving. Madison: I am eleven. I am kind, generous and funny. Were you excited or nervous to start yoga? Troy: I had been begging my mom to sign me up for a year. Brooke: Both. I was nervous to meet new people but I was excited to do yoga with my friend Nicole. Max: I was nervous because I had never done it before. Madison: I was excited because it sounded like fun, and I knew Mary Kaye was great from lacrosse. Was yoga what you expected? What were some surprises? Troy: Yes, it was what I expected. Brooke: Yes, it was what I expected. I was surprised at how quickly I improved each week. Max: It was much better than I expected it to be. Madison: I was surprised at how relaxing it is and how easy it is to learn What is your favorite yoga pose? Troy: Easy question. I love shark and crow. Brooke: Downward Dog is my favorite, and crow is the easiest for me. Max: Plow. I sometimes do it when I am home. Madison: The one where you lie down on your back and sink into the mat. It is awesome. Did you find anything hard about yoga? Troy: It was hard when Mary Kaye first taught me crow, but after 8 tries I got it. Brooke: Only when my brothers fool around, and I can't concentrate. Max: Not Really. Madison: Some of the poses are challenging. Have you used yoga in other areas of your life besides the yoga studio? Troy: Yes. I sometime do breathing before a swim race, and when I do, I swim really fast. Brooke: Yes. I got into poses once at a soccer tournament to relax and get focused. My friend and I each got into crow. We both scored goals that game. Max: Yes. Yesterday before my swim meet, I used the breathing to help me get calm and relaxed. Madison: Yes. Sometimes I meditate before I have to take a test. Have you ever taught your parents any yoga? Troy: I tried, but they can't do it. My dad tried crow, and he almost broke his back and split his pants. It cracked me up. Brooke: I taught my parents fish, plank, and downward dog. They couldn't do crow. Max: I tried but they were not very good. Madison: No, but my brothers and sister tried. My dad could use yoga to calm down! Why do you think your teacher Mary Kaye likes yoga so much? Troy: Because she is flexible and has ALMOST as much energy as me. Brooke: I think Mary Kaye likes yoga because it calms her down. Max: She likes yoga because it calms her down. Madison: Mary Kaye likes yoga because it is fun and it keeps her healthy. What is your favorite part about yoga class? Troy: I love it when we play the yoga game. Brooke: I love Savasana. It is so relaxing. Max: Definitely the massage! Madison: I like it when we do partner poses. Describe Mary Kaye in 3 words. Troy: Funny, energetic and flexible. Brooke: Funny, talented, and nice. Max: ENERGETIC, ENERGETIC, AND ENERGETIC. Madison: Happy, loving, funny, kind, and caring. Lindsay Flaherty We posed a few questions to our yogi of the month and this is what she had to say: How would you describe yourself in three words? Kind, Crazy, Funny. How long have you been doing yoga? I have been doing yoga since I was 7 and a half, and I am 12 and a half now, so around 5 years. What made you want to try yoga in the first place? My mom did yoga for awhile, so I wanted to try it too! It seemed like a creative and fun thing to do. How would you describe your teacher? My yoga teacher (Mary Kaye) is so funny, and is one of the many reasons I do yoga. She always makes me laugh, and she believes in me. She gives me confidence and encouragement inside and outside of yoga. Having hobbies helps you avoid pettiness and makes life interesting. What are some of your hobbies? Sports are the thing that takes up most of my time. I play lacrosse, tennis, basketball and soccer. Other hobbies I have are doing yoga, watching football, hanging out with all my friends and reading. What is your favorite yoga pose? I love a lot of poses! My favorites change every time but I always LOVE pigeon and camel. I can really stretch out in those poses, and it feels good! Chatarunga is also very fun for me, because when I first learned it I couldn't do it. Now I have learned to build my core and I can do it fairly easily. Have you ever thought about teaching your family yoga? I have taught my brother, and he knows some of the poses. He likes it too! I have taught my cousin, my aunt, my great aunt and grandmother in the past as well. What is the most interesting thing that has happened in your yoga class? I think one of the most fun things we did was when we had an African Dance Party! That was so fun. We had drums, cupcakes, and danced around the room to African music with the whole class as a going away party for one of the yogis. Have you used yoga outside of the class? How? Sometimes when I feel tight and need to stretch, I go immediately into camel. It helps my back and I love it! When I want to relax, I'll try to focus on my breathing. I especially use that if I have to go up in front of a crowd, or before I take a test. Can you explain how yoga has helped you in life? Ever since I have been doing yoga I have felt like more of a brighter person. It made me look at things differently, and in a more positive way. It has also made me more relaxed, and not to mention flexible. Flexibility especially helps me in sports. Whether it's running up and down the field or hitting the tennis ball hard. I'm so glad I have taken up yoga, because the results have been nothing but positive! Lindsay We posed a few questions to our yogi of the month and this is what she had to say: How old are you? I am 10 years old. How would you describe yourself in 3 words? I am happy, nice and cheerful. How long have you practiced yoga? I have practiced yoga for over 2 years. What made you start yoga in the first place? My mom thought yoga was a good way to relax. Was there anything that surprised you about yoga? Every time I go into yoga class, I feel a bit more flexible than I did in the class before. Also, on some days I am able to hold poses for a long time and on other days I can barely hold the same pose for one second! What is your favorite part about yoga class? My favorite part of yoga is Savasana. What is the most outrageous thing you have seen in your yoga class? When Mary Kaye tried to drink water with her feet while sitting down. Do you have a favorite pose? Crow pose. Does your family do yoga? Just my mom and me. Can you see how yoga might benefit you in life? I think it can benefit my life because I get stressed out easily, and yoga helps that a lot! If you could go anywhere and do yoga, where would it be? I would like to do yoga at the Caribbean because it is really relaxing. Maggie We posed a few questions to our yogi of the month and this is what she had to say: How old are you? I am 15 years old. When did you start doing yoga? I started doing yoga with my mom in the summer when I was 11. She would drag me to the old lady yoga class, and they were very serious and intense for my age. What attracted you to yoga? I was attracted to yoga when I heard some friends were taking a teen class. I thought that a teen class would be more accepting but I soon learned any yoga class is accepting but its definitely more fun to be around kids my own age. Is yoga what you expected? Yoga is definitely not what I expected because I used to be a dancer, and dance is very judgmental. If you can't do something, you're not good enough but in yoga you are getting a great workout at the same time as increasing your flexibility while the whole time you're in a zone free of judgment. You can try and fail without being looked down upon. What do you love about yoga? My favorite part of yoga is definitely the comfort I have in the class. I have so much confidence in the class and I know that there is no judgment so embarrassment doesn't faze me in the class. If I fail in a pose, I don't worry and move on and try it again. Since I have started taking yoga, I apply this confidence to everyday. Do you have a favorite pose? My favorite yoga pose is really hard to pick because I love a lot of them. For example, I love pigeon, camel, crow and chaturanga. I like these poses because when I first learned them, I hated them but when I learned to breathe through the pose, it became comfortable. Now I actually try more advanced versions of the poses. Anything surprising ever happen in yoga class? The most surprising event that has ever occurred in yoga would have to be when I used my yoga confidence to befriend the teen reporter from "Teen Kids News". He came to tape our class for a TV show and was really nice. Tyler and I still keep in touch. What is the best advice your teacher ever gave you? My yoga teacher told me that I have a lot of thoughts running through my head, and I need to let them go and relax, practice ujjayii breathing, and find ways to still the mind to achieve peace. Have you used yoga outside of class? I haven't used any poses outside of class but I do use my yoga breath when I am hot headed, doing homework, taking a test, or just need time to myself. What advice would you give someone who is afraid to try yoga? I have tried to get some friends to do yoga but a lot of them are afraid or embarrassed to try something new or something they think they will fail at. Most of my friends say I can teach them and I will but I think that the environment the classes are held in is a major ingredient to a perfect yoga experience so I would say invite a friend that won't distract you and try it!! Do you think yoga helps you stop thinking about the Jonas Brothers all the time? I will have to admit that yoga makes me think about the Jonas Brothers on impulse but then I get distracted by the breath and poses that my concentration becomes fixed on yoga, and the Jonas Brothers are no where to be found. Ashton Chryssicas We posed a few questions to our yogi of the month and this is what she had to say: How old are you? I am 12 years old. How long have you practiced yoga? I have been doing it since preschool around 8 or so years. What is your favorite part about yoga class? I like EVERYTHING but I also like when we chant OMMMM and savasana. What is your favorite yoga pose? My favorite yoga pose is hard to say because I really like camel, headstand, crow, scorpion etc (strength building poses) but also I like reverse half moon because it is sometimes a challenge for me. Can you tell us an example of how you use yoga in your life? I was in kindergarten and was on the bus but no one was waiting for me at my bus stop when it was time to get off. I was really scared and so I started doing my yoga breathing as I sat on the bus. I did that until I reached the school again, and my mom picked me up there. She wasn't at the bus stop because my sister was REALLY sick and the bus wasn't on time so she went to check on her. Has anyone done anything crazy in yoga class? YES!!!!! In Fact, I have done crazy things too!!!! EVERYTHING is fun and crazy yet peaceful in yoga class. Do you have a special talent? HMMMMM a special talent would be... I can make a really good monkey cry impression. But my best special talent is probably helping others. What shocks you the most about yoga class? What shocks me most about yoga is that yoga can be REALLY fun, and you might think it is serious stuff but really in this class, you do yoga in a fun loving way and still find peace. Why do you love going to yoga? I LOVE going to yoga because it releases negative energy, tension, and stress which really can do wonders!!! It makes me feel incredible, and when I don't do yoga in a while I feel like a VERY tight stick! I couldn't imagine life without yoga. Also, it really helps me fix my problems in life. It gets my mind off of the real world and into a world where I can relax. What would you tell someone who is afraid to try yoga? I would say you're WASTING time not trying yoga! You might not realize it but stress gets stuck in parts of your body where you don't stretch, and it builds tension making you cranky!! It puts me in a great mood and hopefully it will do the same for you!!! So get moving and DO SOME YOGA!!! Ashley Freeman We posed a few questions to our yogi of the month and this is what she had to say: When did you start yoga? I started yoga about 1 year ago. What do you love about yoga? How does it make you feel? It makes me feel calmer, but energized. Looser and not as tight. I love the breathing part because that calms me down when I am nervous. Does your family do yoga? My sister does yoga once in a while and my mom tries to do it but can't always get to it. Is yoga what you expected? I thought yoga was going to be "different" or weird, but its really fun! How would you describe yourself? Three words to describe myself: random, caring/kind and sometimes funny. What was the biggest surprise you had in class? When someone's legs got wrapped around Mary Kaye's head. What was your best experience in yoga class? The breathing and how it calms you down. I also love to hear Mary Kaye's stories! What is your favorite pose? One of my favorite poses is frog because it's comfortable and a good stretch. Have you ever taught someone a yoga pose to get them hooked? What was it? Yes, I tried teaching someone pigeon because most people like that. I tried showing/teaching someone chaturanga to make them see how hard it actually is. How old are you? I am 12 years old. Do you think you'll do yoga forever? Yes I think I will. Katie We posed a few questions to our yogi of the month and this is what she had to say: What grade are you in? Are you mature for your age? I am in 6th grade and I don't think I am mature for my age because I am wild and crazy! How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Phenomenal, outgoing, hilarious. You seem to have a good sense of self? What is your secret? Yoga! When did you first discover yoga and what was your impression of it? I first discovered yoga when I was nine years old. I thought it was a lot of fun, especially the teacher! Why did you feel any connection with your teacher? Because Mary Kaye and I are both very crazy. Is there anything unusual about your teacher? Yes, she is very hyper, especially for a grownup. I would describe her as positive, funny and full of energy. Do you teach your family yoga after class ever? Yes, I taught them Child's pose to get them non-stressed. They were not amused. What is your favorite pose? Crow because it is cool looking. If you had to fall asleep in a yoga pose which one would it be? Pigeon because it is very comfortable to sleep in. (Trust me I have tried it.) Have you ever needed to use your yoga breathing outside of class? Why? Yes, before I went up to the free throw line in a championship basketball game. If you had to convince someone to try yoga who is totally scared to try it, what would you say? I would say it is a blast, and you will have a lot of fun with Mary Kaye. Emma When did you first start yoga? Kindergarten How old are you? 8.5 years old How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Funny, nice, and happy. How would you describe your teacher in 3 words? Funny, nice, and helpful. Why did you want to take yoga? To calm me down. What was the biggest surprise you had about yoga? My teacher. Do you have a favorite pose? Dancer's pose. Have you ever used yoga outside of class? Yes Why do you think others could benefit from yoga? To calm them down! If someone said something mean to you, what would you do? Breathe and walk away. I hear laughter is good medicine. What made you laugh the hardest in yoga class? Mary Kaye's embarrassing stories. Graham How old are you and how long have you done yoga? 8 years old; this is my 2nd year of yoga. What got you interested in yoga in the first place? My back was always sore (I had back surgery in kindergarten) and mom thought the yoga might help. What makes you wanting more yoga? It helps my back a lot and it's lots of fun! What are some of your favorite poses? The Crow is my favorite; I also like it when Mary Kaye massages the tension out of my neck! How would you describe your yoga class to others who are interested in trying yoga? Lots of fun! How would you describe your teacher? She's really funny and good at yoga. How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Nice, funny and happy! Have you introduced yoga to your family? I've tried to teach them some poses but my mom needs a lot more practice at it! Every now and then, do you feel like busting into volcano pose? Yes!! The Wellesley Division I Sixth Grade Soccer Team What grade is your team? We are all 6th graders. Why does the team like yoga so much? Because right before the game it relaxes you. Meditation: It works. We hear you're an amazing team. What's your secret? Yoga and all our teammates really support each other and give positive feedback. No one would ever say, "Kate, what were you thinking!?" How could Mary Kaye possibly relax this soccer team? No offense, but you seem hyper. What? Us hyper (said jumping up and down). She massages our heads and gets us to clear nervous energy and redirect it. Then we spring into action! Rebecca What grade are you in? 6th grade What is your favorite pose? Shoulder Stand! What attracts you to yoga? I love that yoga is super fun, and it gets me relaxed. What is your favorite part about yoga class? I love how Mary Kaye always tells us crazy stories in class! Having hobbies helps you avoid pettiness. What are your hobbies? Yoga, sewing, art, softball. We hear you are an amazing person. How would you describe yourself? Aritistic, quiet and yoga-loving!! Dana What is your favorite yoga pose? The Number Four!! What do you love about yoga? I love the relaxation part. How long have you been practicing yoga? I have been doing yoga for 2 years. I got started because my mom did it and she told me I would love it! How would you describe yourself? Caring, helpful, fun to be around. How would you describe your teacher? Mary Kaye is a relaxed, calm person. the Fabulous Sisters, Haley and Hilary Why do you girls just love yoga? Hilary: I love yoga because it's relaxing. Haley: I love yoga because I get to meet new friends. The people are very nice. What is the funniest thing that ever happened in Mary Kaye's yoga class? Hilary: Mary Kaye's son accidentally stepped on the candle and his whole foot got wrapped with wax. He didn't even feel it! Mary Kaye said some yogis can completely tune out the pain. Her son is one of them. Haley: Definitely when Grant stepped on the candle. Wax was everywhere! What is your favorite yoga pose? Hilary: Wheel! Haley: Savasana When did you start yoga? Hilary: I am 8 years old and started this past year. Haley: I am 10 years old and started in January. How would you describe yourself? Do crazy kids do yoga? Hilary: Energetic, flexible and funny. Haley: Happy, excited and kind. How does yoga help? Hilary: It calms me down and makes me less hyper. Haley: It helps me not get stressed up during tests. Alexandra What grade are you in? 6th grade. How long have you been doing yoga? For at least a year. What is your favorite yoga pose? Crow pose. Why do you love yoga? I love yoga because it's a fun, relaxing exercise. What is the oddest thing that ever happened in class? When Mary Kaye decides to teach the whole class in a heavy Southern accent. She's teaching in Boston!!!! How would you describe yourself? Super nice, passionate about life and fun loving. Mary Kaye always says hobbies make interesting people. What are your hobbies? Yoga, basketball and sewing. When is your birthday? April 22nd. Sophie Hester How old are you? Ma ma What is your favorite yoga pose? Da da How long have you been doing yoga? 2 months How does it make you feel? Ga ga Is I Love Yoga an inspiration to your yoga practice? Ma ma Do you think you'll be doing yoga forever? Ya ya Lindsey Renner What grade are you in? 4th grade When did you start yoga? 1st grade How did you discover yoga? My good friend, Anna, was doing it, and she loved it. How would you describe yourself in 3 words? fun, creative, smart How would you describe your yoga teacher in 1 word? Crazy! What was your first impression of yoga? It seemed harder than it is now. Do you have a favorite part of class? When we play Jump Yoga -- it's a game that helps you remember the poses. What is your favorite pose? Dancer's Pose Does anyone else in your family do yoga? My mom and two older sisters. We are all fans! What about your dog? Gigi does a great downward dog! Lauren Dillon What grade are you in? 5th grade When did you start yoga? Over two years ago. What is your favorite pose? One legged crow. Have you ever made up a yoga pose and if so what did you call it? Yes, I made up a very difficult squat and called it Potty pose. The class loved it. What surprised you about yoga class? I didn't know it could be funny and serious. Mary Kaye is the funniest and most loveable. Does anything odd ever happen to you to cause you to use your yoga breathing? Yes, when my brothers beat me up and when I don't feel good. Have you encouraged your family to do the bundle roll late at night? Yes, of course I have but they ignored me. Weren't you the girl that helped Mary Kaye find that compelling Mia Hamm quote for her recent book? Oh that quote? Of course. The fabulous Lauren Dillon did! the Blond Sisters What grade are you in? Lilah: first grade Phoebe: 4th grade Chloe: 4th grade When did you start yoga? Lilah: kindergarten Phoebe: kindergarten Chloe: kindergarten Is yoga what you thought it would be? Lilah: Yes. Phoebe: Yes about so. Chloe: Yes. What do you love about yoga? Lilah: We have a great teacher who makes it fun, and we are trying something new. Phoebe: I love how much fun it is and how it relaxes me. Chloe: I think that it is really fun. Do you have a favorite pose? Lilah: Wheel. Phoebe: Headstand. Chloe: Camel pose. Has Mary Kaye ever done anything shocking in class? Lilah: Yes. When she was in Triangle pose, she bumped her hip back and started shaking her booty. Phoebe: Where do I start? There's the Yoga Chicken she brings to class. And when we do jump yoga, she is a "background dancer." Chloe: Dancing in frog pose which is kind of weird because she gets out of control and can't stop. Do you actually feel like a dog in Downward Dog? Lilah: Yes, I feel like a dog wagging it's tail. Phoebe: Not exactly. Chloe: No, because I am not a dog and cannot imagine what being a dog feels like! How would you describe yoga class to someone who has never tried? Lilah: Fun, soothing, relaxing -- not like the sit and stretch we do in gym class. Phoebe: Fun, soothing, a very happy place. Chloe: Fun -- when you come out you feel calm and tired, good inside. Ginny What made you decide to take a yoga class? I decided to take a yoga class because I like to calm down with Mary Kaye. What do you love about yoga? I love yoga because I can calm down if I am stressed. Do you have a favorite pose? My favorite pose is firefly. Did anything unusual happen at your yoga birthday party? Yes, something unusual did happen! My Dad dressed up as Spiderman when we were doing Savasana and rubbing oils on our necks. Do you have any other family members (dogs included) who do yoga? My mom tries yoga, my dad likes to try, and my brother doesn't. How would you describe yourself? I am crazy. I like to party. I am a nice friend. I think I'm fun. What do you have in common with your yoga teacher Mary Kaye? Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha... We both are crazy, we both like to party, we are both fun, and MK is a nice friend. Katie Corscadden What grade are you in? I'm a 5th grader. What is your favorite part of yoga? Sitting on Mary Kaye's shoulders. What is your favorite pose? Mermaid pose - it's a side plank yoga position. What was your biggest surprise in yoga class? When Mary Kaye let me teach the class!! How have you learned to calm yourself down? I relax my body by lying on my back on my mat. Who else have you introduced yoga to? My brother, Jay and sister, Keely.
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