Karma Yogi Spotlight: Graham Downey

Graham is a newer, exemplary addition to the Karma Yogi program here at Flow. His enthusiasm and selfless service truly embody the Flow community! Read on to learn more about him :)

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

I practice four or five times a week, usually in the late afternoon or early evening. I try to make it to class at flow at least two or three times a week, but when I can't I practice at home and see if I can recreate some of the great sequences from my favorite led classes.

What inspires you to practice at Flow?

The care and creativity of the teachers. Every class feels made for me - a balance of challenge and support.

What was your first yoga experience like?

I took my first led class as a Sophomore at my college gym. I wasn't able to do most of the poses, but I still felt the physical rewards immediately. My body felt stronger and lighter and more open. It didn't translate into a regular practice immediately, but I did immediately tell a lot of people they just absolutely had to try it.

Who are some of your most influential teachers?

When I moved back to DC in 2016, Eric Schwarz's unusual and fun classes showed me that yoga wasn't just a workout. And then John Thurman showed me how an intense practice could energize my mind as much as my body.

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

Practicing yoga has helped me become a much better bike polo player. We play pickup twice a week in DC; you should come with me sometime!

Manager Spotlight: Maris Feeley!

Hey Flowgis!  Meet Maris!  Maris has been on board for nearly a year, starting as a Karma Yogi, then promoted to Manager and Senior Manager with the HR Team!  Maris is truly a rockstar, and we so love having her on the team.  Say hi and congrats on her upcoming nuptials if you see her around the studio!

What inspires you to practice at Flow?

I'm continuously inspired by Flow's inclusive & diverse community, from the classes we offer to my fellow yogis.

What was your first yoga experience like?

I first stepped onto a mat in 2013, and it was the honestly the first time I'd ever felt my brain go quiet :) It cut through the noise of everything I had going on and grounded me in a way that has now become necessary!

Who are some of your most influential teachers?

I love Clare for helping me see yoga in so many different ways; every time I take a class with her, I discover something new about the way my body can move!

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

I'm currently working on becoming a full-spectrum doula. Right now, I'm a practicing abortion doula, but I hope to be trained in birth & death doula work by the end of the year.

Anything else you would like to share?

If you see me around the studio, stop & say hi! I'm around quite a lot and I love to get to know our Flowgis :)