Flowgis! Many of you already know our beloved Teacher of the Month, Susan Kihurani Skinner, as her classes are some of the most well-attended! Learn more about her below :)
What inspires you to practice at Flow?
The amazing humans that come to Flow (whether it be to work or to practice) and the strong sense of community. I work a full-time job during the day, which can be really exhausting, and sometimes, in my often frantic hustle to leave my office and navigate the city to get to my class on time, I question whether this crazy dash is worth it. However, without fail, once I make it to Flow, I am instantly reminded of how much I LOVE being a part of this community. Whether it be the wonderful Karma Yogis, Managers, Teachers and other Flow staff, or the amazing students that come to practice, I am always inspired by the people and the amazing, uplifting energy. I always end up leaving my classes on a "yoga high," thanks to these wonderful humans! And am reminded that yes, it is more than worth it :) Much love and appreciation for the Flow community! And thank you Jen Beach and Kathleen A. Kern for making my Mondays extra special :)
What is a typical day like for you and how does practice fit into your daily routine?
I typically wake up around 5:45am and then walk my dog, Ella, before heading morning Mysore (I just started Mysore a few weeks ago and it's been a really challenging, grounding, and humbling experience, but I'm really loving it!). After Mysore, I walk to my full-time job, where I work as the Director of Contracts for a research firm. After work, if I'm not teaching an evening yoga class, then I'll try to catch a spin class, take a run with Ella (but only if the weather is just right, lol), or just hang out with my husband.
What was your first yoga experience like?
When I was in undergrad at GW, I needed to take a 1-credit class, and all my friends were taking this "really cool" step aerobics class (clearly showing how dated I am), but I wasn't able to get into the class. The only class that I could get into that fit in my schedule was a Yoga/Pilates 101. I signed up and have been hooked ever since!
Who are some of your most influential teachers?
Mimi Rieger has had the biggest influence on me. Mimi was the first yoga teacher that inspired me to start practicing regularly. Before I met Mimi, I would practice here and there, but not consistently. After taking one of Mimi's classes, I was instantly hooked and couldn't stop coming back for more. Mimi has shown me the importance of persistence and intention in practice. She has helped me grow in so many ways, both on and off the mat, and is such an amazing, selfless mentor and friend. Joan Wadopian has also had a big influence on me through her thoughtfully sequenced, precise, alignment focused classes, as well as her no-nonsense attitude. Other teachers that have influenced me include Cory Bryant, Sam Breschi, and Angela Meyer.
What is something the Flow community may not know about you?
I am half Kenyan (my father was born in Kenya) and half Pennsylvania Dutch (my mother's family used to be Amish and Mennonite), which might be one of the oddest combinations, but definitely has made life interesting and full of character :)
Come check out why Susan's classes are so popular on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 14th St! Not only is she an awesome teacher, she's a truly wonderful person to be around.
We love you, Susan!