HOLISTIC YOGA COMMUNITY
My Story
Hello and welcome! I'm so happy you want to learn a little about me. I'll keep this short and sweet, but hopefully you'll get to know me a bit better and why yoga is such a huge part of my life.
​
Well, I'm Fran and I'm passionate about teaching and learning in a supportive community.
​
I grew up in Exeter and the beautiful rolling hills of Devon. Playing in nature was central to my childhood, and as I grew up I cared more and more about environmental issues.
During school my attention turned outwards. I involved myself in all sorts of clubs, groups and activities - and so began the habit of being continuously busy! Soon I learned of all the great injustice in the world: war, famine, slavery and, most distressingly, environmental degradation.
​
To learn how I could bring about positive change in the world, I went on to study Global Development and Sustainability at university. Again throwing myself into everything, everyone kept telling me how well I was doing - except I knew in my heart that I was nowhere nearer to solving the world's problems.
​
Amidst the hustle and bustle of uni life I had my first taste of yoga and immediately loved the calm space it gave me away from my over-thinking busy mind. It was not until I left to travel the globe however that I discovered the incredible benefits of a regular practice.
​
Photo credit: Morna Packer
I found the Mindfulness Project in Thailand - the turning point for my life.
​
Instead of obsessively worrying over the harsh realities of human existence on a finite planet, I realised I could effect great change in society by calming my own mind, slowing down and connecting to my body. Through this mindful practice, I saw how through changing myself first is vital to instigating change in the wider world.
​
This was the path of yoga. I learned that modern neuroscience is now exploring and substantiating the ancient wisdom teachings of yogis and I was keen to know more.
In Rishikesh, Northern India, I stumbled upon Anand Prakash Ashram and the teachings of Yogrishi Vishvketu through Akhanda Yoga.
Instantly drawn to the holistic, joyful, light and loving approach to yoga, I continued my studies there a year and a half later. These teachings I share with you now, and hope that you may also connect with your inner joy through our practice together.
​
Photo credit: Christian Jobin-Delaquis