Manager Spotlight: Julia Holland

Meet Julia! She is a manager and member of the HR team here at Flow, as well as a delightful human being we're lucky to have around the studio :) Read on to get to know her!

What is your current practice like and how does it fit into your daily routine?

I try and do some form of movement each day. Sometimes that's my own practice, which consists of me shuffling the living room furniture until I have enough space to unroll my mat. (Trust me, it's a great way to warm up.) After that, I do an energizing sequence that focuses on strength and flexibility. I prefer to practice in the morning, but I haven't mastered the whole "Yoga before breakfast" thing.

What inspires you to practice at Flow?

Community and variety! While I love to practice at home in my pajamas, taking class at Flow allows me to explore new postures and push my limits. Practicing alongside Yogis who are so passionately dedicated to their work (both inside and outside of the studio) is awe-inspiring, and I always walk away from class feeling nourished and invigorated.

What was your first yoga experience like?

Confusing! Yoga is a language my body is constantly learning and relearning. My personal practice has grown over time, but there are still days when my body's like "NOPE." I do remember the first time I cried after practicing, though. That was pretty special.

Who are some of your most influential teachers?

I attribute most of my knowledge and ability to Kim Brooks Mata, the director of U.Va.'s Dance Program. Kim liked to emphasize the way LMA (Laban Movement Analysis) can be used to explore different forms: Yoga, ballet, Graham technique, Gaga, etc. She encourages her students to develop their own "movement signatures," which is how I approach Yoga (and life) today. I'm just doing my own thing, y'all.

What is something the Flow community may not know about you?

When I'm in class, I have no idea what I'm doing about 80% of the time. I usually have to peek around at everybody else!

Anything else you would like to share?

I'd love to be certified sometime down the road, and I dream of adopting my very own kitten. Also, let's take class and/or eat breakfast food together!