The yogini: Diana Azavedo
The pose: Lord of the Dance (aka Natarajasana)
The location: Angkor Wat Temple, Cambodia
The benefits of the pose:
It stretches your shoulders and chest and strengthens the legs and ankles. It also improves balance and concentration levels. The Lord of the Dance also helps you to develop grace.
1. When did your yoga journey begin and why?
Yoga for me began when I started assisting my mom in yoga classes for the not-so-fortunate in Mumbai, India. Little did I realize I would soon be practising, teaching & sharing these amazing benefits with others.
2. What kind of yoga do you teach?
I teach Hatha Yoga and combine styles of Vinyasa flow, power, prenatal & post natal, yin and restorative. I qualified in several places including Sivananda Ashram in Kerala, India; Brahmani Yoga institute in Goa, India and YogaFirst Middle East.
3. Yoga transforms, but what is the biggest change you have seen in yourself due to practising yoga?
Yoga gave me an immense sense of calm and clarity. Ever since, the choices I make in life are easier and healthier.
4. Besides yoga, what are your passions in life?
Travelling is something I love. Whenever I get an opportunity, I select a destination to meet new people and immerse into a different culture. I also love to dance. Otherwise, leave me on a beach and I’ll be happy.
5. What’s your (healthy) go-to snack?
An apple or mix of dry fruits.
6. What gets you upset?
Lack of kindness.
7. What makes you happiest?
Chocolate walnut brownies and early morning sunshine.
8. If you were marooned on an island and you can only take 3 things with you, what would they be?
Desire has no limit. Three things would never seem enough so I’d challenge myself, take nothing and then figure it out.
9. What’s your mantra in life?
Think, Speak & Action your truth into the universe.
10. What are your future dreams?
To continue to share the myriad benefits of Yoga.
Diana teaches at Zen Yoga (go to www.yoga.ae) in Dubai. For more information go to www.radianceofyoga.com
