In an era where our lives are woven with digital threads, yoga emerges as an oasis of tranquility and mindfulness. Amidst the constant buzz of notifications and screens, it's a practice that invites us to reconnect with ourselves. Saint John yoga instructor Steffi Retzlaff's journey showcases yoga's adaptability and versatility, catering to the ever-changing tapestry of our lives.
Mindful Living in 2025
For Steffi, yoga transcends mere physicality. "What does Yoga mean to me? Why do I practice yoga?" the German native ponders, reflecting. “What amazes me the most is that the answers to these questions have changed over the years.”
Yoga isn't one-size-fits-all; it's a diverse practice with styles for every need and mood. It's a comprehensive discipline from ancient India, designed to harmonize body and mind, reflected in the Sanskrit word "yuj" meaning "to unite." Whether you seek the strength of Power, the calm of Hatha, or the introspective quiet of Yin, yoga accommodates all, fostering not just physical health but also mental and spiritual growth. Since beginning her yoga journey in 2006, Steffi has transitioned from the intense Ashtanga to a broader palette including Flow, Hatha, Power, and the soothing Yin.
“Yoga has been a way to cope with stress and anxiety, academic burnout, and an opportunity to connect with the inner silence and peace inside,” says Steffi.” “It has been an opportunity to stretch and bend in different ways, to sweat, release toxins, and be present.”
By fostering self-awareness and encouraging mindfulness, yoga empowers practitioners to take control of their health in a world where personalized care is often difficult to access. In today's healthcare landscape, yoga serves as a vital preventive practice that promotes overall well-being. It addresses stress, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances flexibility, making it an accessible tool for managing chronic lifestyle diseases.
The Daily Ritual: Incorporating Yoga into Life
Steffi advocates for weaving yoga into the fabric of daily life with "Mindful Minutes." This simple act of pausing to breathe and check in with oneself can be revolutionary.
"Just 10 -15 minutes of mindful movement every morning, throughout your day or/and evening can boost and restore body and mind." she explains. “Although a quarter of an hour may not sound like a lot, scientific research has shown that even a small amount of movement and mindfulness can have a huge impact on your health.”
Saint John's Yoga Tapestry: From Studios to Nature
From formal classes at The Nest Yoga where Steffi is a teacher to the more laid back, donation-based sessions at Lily Lake Pavilion, Saint John offers a variety of yoga settings for every yogi’s preference and budget. Even the Canada Games Aquatic Centre offers yoga classes and there’s no shortage of outdoor spaces to practice yoga in Saint John.
Steffi particularly enjoys the serene Split Rock Trail. “Overlooking the water and with no traffic or city noise. That was just heaven,” she says, describing the locale.
For those interested in striking a pose at home, Steffi says, “There is a lot of free content on YouTube.” Some of her favourite teachers are Devi Deli Yoga, Yoga with Kassandra and Charlie Follows. “Chibs Okereke has wonderful meditations and Neowake offers highly effective and stimulating listening sessions for relaxation, energy, sleep, regeneration, and more.” she said.
New Horizons: Yoga Beyond the Mat
Steffi's journey with yoga isn't static; it's ever-evolving, leading her to new experiences, like planning an overseas retreat in 2025 and smaller local gatherings in Saint John throughout the year. Yoga for her is both a metaphorical and literal journey, exploring new dimensions of self and place.
Whether you're a novice or a veteran, yoga in Saint John is an invitation to a more centred, healthier life. With Steffi's insights and the community's rich yoga offerings, this ancient practice is accessible and transformative, promising a journey towards peace and self-discovery next year and beyond.
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