Yoga, Adventure, and the Open Road: A Chat with Coach Olga
What inspired you to become an instructor?
I have always been drawn to movement and started dancing when I was quite young! When I was a teenager, I began focusing on dance more seriously, with the aim of becoming a professional dancer. Despite a lot of challenges along the way, I obtained a BA degree in dance. While in training, I found myself drawn to movement science and somatic styles of contemporary dance, which emphasize mind-body connection. I also absolutely loved exploring other movement disciplines, which eventually led me to qualify as a yoga teacher — and later on study yoga therapy: a scientific approach helping people feel better using the tools of yoga. 🩰
Share a client success story that really motivates you.
I’m always really motivated and inspired by the resilience, curiosity, and commitment of all of my clients! My teaching work has three strands: I often collaborate with physios to help people move freely again after an episode of chronic pain or injury. I also work with people experiencing mental health struggles, supporting them in finding more ease through the tools of yoga. In addition to those, I work with individuals who are committed to a regular movement practice that includes both yoga and strength training. Each of these areas is incredibly rewarding in its own way—especially when people reach and exceed their goals. I especially love witnessing people’s evolution: in their movement quality, strength, confidence and mindfulness.😊
What's your go-to workout song?
If we are talking something that gets me moving… Most definitely dancehall or 90s pop / R&B (but then I start singing too and forget my workout…). For yoga or creative movement something more chill and in the background but with a gentle beat.
What is your favourite way to stay active or recharge?
Somewhat surprisingly, I absolutely love movement and exercise as a way to stay active. I enjoy creative movement, various types of yoga and strength training, but whenever I get a chance, you will fill find me on the trail! I recharge with meditation, slower types of yoga and always feel drawn to spending time in nature. Besides hiking and walking, I am a newly converted wild swimming enthusiast! I also love learning and studying and I’m not ashamed to admit that that’s what I find relaxing! I also enjoy an in-depth chat.🧘🏼♀️🌱
What is your advice to people just starting movement or exercise?
People have been told for way too long, that they should “do less” as they age. You know what? Science has found that it’s the worst advice ever! It turns out you can make positive changes and find motivation at any age. If movement or exercise feel like a chore, start with finding a discipline that brings you joy! Once you (re)discover the joy of movement, you will likely feel inspired to try out other things. Chat to an instructor to see how you can round out your practice for best health, wellness and longevitiy benefits.
What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
Probably that I live in a van full-time and travel around Europe for most of the year. I have a fully kitted out movement space at the back of my van that I teach from! Also that I have a very down to earth approach to yoga, grounded in science. I love movement, mindfulness and psychology and exploring how they interact, but I don’t identify as spiritual. 🚐
Why is Primal the best place to achieve one's fitness goals?
Primal has an exceptional coaching team and a close-knit community. It’s a really friendly and welcoming space that covers all the bases of healthy movement in a fun atmosphere! 🏃🏼♀️🏋🏼🧘🏼♀️🤸🏼♀️