~ Monika Merriman ~
Training Certificates or Qualifications: Purna Yoga 200hr YTT, Yin Yoga 60hr TT(YAC), Pranayama, Bhandas & Meditation YACEP, Usui Reiki Level 1&2
Yoga Influences: Yin, Vinyasa, Yoga Nidra
Inspirational teachers: John Ogilvie, Annie van den Bergh, Jennifer Quail-Allen, Duncan Peak & Dylan Warner.
Background: Growing up in Oklahoma, I spent most of my days on a farm, deeply connected to the earth, elements, and animals. For the past 21 years, I've been blessed to call the stunning landscapes of New Zealand my home. I am a mother of two beautiful children who fill my days with love and laughter.
Movement has always been a guiding force in my life, whether through athletics, gymnastics, or dance. During a challenging time at university, when anxiety and panic attacks were overwhelming me, I sought ways to calm my nervous system and still my mind without pharmaceuticals. That's when I found my path to yoga. It brought relief, balance, and peace to my life, starting a journey of self-discovery that became an integral part of my existence.
Yoga's transformative power captivated me, revealing its magic that goes beyond physical benefits, reaching deep into the mind and spirit. Through years of devoted practice and training, I became a certified yoga teacher in 2012.
Why I practice: For me, true harmony is found in the union of body, mind and spirit. Yoga is my pathway to self-discovery and growth. Each practice is a journey inward, exploring the depths of my mind, body and connecting with my breath. Through yoga, I learn to listen more deeply to my inner wisdom, embrace my strengths, and gently acknowledge my limitations. It’s a continuous process of learning, healing, and evolving that enriches my life.
Why I teach: Teaching yoga is a calling that resonates with my soul’s purpose. There's nothing quite like witnessing the radiant transformation in people after a yoga class. The joy and peace they carry with them out into their community is my greatest reward. Sharing the journey of self-discovery with our community and creating spaces where others feel safe, supported, and alive is what truly makes my heart sing.
Favourite quotes:
"It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." ~ Aristotle
“If you propose to speak, always ask yourself, is it true, is it necessary, is it kind” ~ Buddha
“ Yoga is a light, which once lit, will never dim. The better your practice, the brighter the flame.” – BKS Iyengar
