My Yoga Philosophy
Yoga is a profound practice that originates from the Sanskrit word Yuj, meaning "yoke" or "union," and has ancient roots in South Asia. It has transcended cultural boundaries and is now widely embraced in various cultures worldwide. However, it is crucial to recognize and address the issue of cultural appropriation, especially in Western yoga practices.
As a yoga teacher in Texas, I humbly acknowledge the paradox of being a white practitioner in a diverse cultural landscape. My initial exposure to yoga came during my teenage years through meditations led by my Buddhist high school coach in a small Texan town. Since then, I have been fortunate to learn from a lineage of dedicated yoga practitioners and honor their ancestral and historical contributions. Some of my teachers include Shawn Kent, Kielly Wolters, Shanti Kelley, Iva Drtina-Hall, Jenn Wooten, Collette Ouseley-Moynan, and Deb Flashenberg.
For me, yoga is not confined to an hour on the mat; it is a sacred philosophy and a way of life that deserves the utmost respect and understanding. I am committed to being a lifelong learner, continuously deepening my practice, and cultivating cultural responsiveness and respect. Embracing a growth mindset, I aim to evolve my comprehension of yoga's history and origins.
My coaching practice is dedicated to nurturing givers and healers, including creatives, parents, and educators. I commit to being inclusive and culturally responsive to individuals who have experienced trauma, people with disabilities (like myself as an adult-diagnosed ADHDer), individuals of color (even as a white practitioner), and members of the LGBTQIA+ community (I identify as a late bloomer bi-gal). My goal is to offer ancient wisdom and healing to my local community, enabling them to radiate their light and inspire positive change.
In summary, my yoga philosophy revolves around genuine respect for yoga's origins, an ongoing commitment to learning and cultural responsiveness, and a sincere desire to bring healing and ancient wisdom to all members of my diverse local community. Together, we can foster an inclusive and transformative space where everyone can find solace and growth through the practice of yoga.
-H. E. Wong
