Guest Spotlight: Nate Gorence

Meet Nate! A Flowgi for the last six years, Nate is dedicated to Flow's Mysore program but can also be found in a Pilates or Rocket class. Learn more about his love of Flow & fly fishing.

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

My practice is focused on Ashtanga and Pilates, but I mix in a few other classes here and there. I aspire to make Mysore every morning, but, between work travel and lack of sleep, my Mysore practice is far from daily. Still, I try to get to the studio every day that I'm in town--for a led primary or Vinyasa class, or Rocket on Sunday. I also try to make Pilates 2-3 times a week to compliment my yoga practice. I'm definitely more focused, more energized, and happier when I practice daily.

What inspires you to practice at Flow?

The entire Flow community--great mix of welcoming, dynamic, and motivating teachers and practitioners.

What was your first yoga experience like?

First yoga experience was a gym yoga class in 2009. I had no idea what I was doing and could barely touch my toes. I thought it would be good to increase my flexibility after a week-long backpacking trip that left me with a little tendinitis. I gradually started practicing a few times a week until Mimi Rieger told me that she thought I would really enjoy a more consistent practice at a studio. So, I gave that a whirl and haven't looked back. I think I've been a Flow member since 2011, which is hard to believe.

Who are some of your most influential teachers?

Whoo, I have a lot. The Flow Ashtanga clan: Jen Rene, Gail Harris, Todd Anderson, Cory Bryant, Nicole Kaib, and Chris Anderson. Mimi Rieger, who got me beyond gym yoga. Jonathan Ewing for Sunday Rocket. Clare Kelley and Juliet Stovall for cringe-inducing but ultimately rewarding Pilates. David Kyle, who taught my teacher training and helped focus my Ashtanga practice.

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

As much as I love yoga, I love fly fishing more. There are a lot of similarities between the two, but fly fishing will always be first passion.

Anything else you would like to share?

If you run to Flow, you can go easy on the first few Vinyasas.