Is Yoga for People Who Can’t Sit Still?
Kris Murphy | FEB 5
Yoga can be the perfect practice for people who can't sit still. The trick? Finding a class that fits your vibe today. Once you’re comfortable, you can expand your practice to include other types—or not. Read on to find out why Vinyasa and Power Yoga are my jam and where to find the best local Fredericton yoga classes to try out!
The spectrum of yoga is massive. It ranges from the deep, spiritual meditation of Kundalini and Yoga Nidra to the slow, restorative vibes of Yin. Then, you move into the "Yangi" spaces like Hatha, Vinyasa, and Ashtanga.
People are often delightfully surprised by how much fun our practice is at Picaroons Brewing Company on Saturdays. They expect a slow-motion stretch; they get a party.
Long before I began teaching, I walked into a local studio with a sign that read: "This is a Sacred Space." Inside, it was a tomb. I sat on my mat, chin tucked, sneaking peeks at everyone else to make sure my posture matched. I felt like I was breaking a rule just by breathing. I never went back. My mistake? I chose the wrong type of class for my first experience. If you’ve felt that way, you aren't "bad at yoga"—you just haven't found your tribe yet.
About a year after that first awkward experience, I discovered PiYo (a fusion of Pilates and Yoga). I fell in love instantly. It was yoga for people who can’t sit still.
At the time, I was a third-degree martial artist and loved the choreography and strength. I ended up getting certified in Halifax by a trainer from the Chalene Johnson PiYo videos—I felt two degrees of separation from royalty! I taught PiYo in a Taekwondo studio for years before realizing I was ready to dive deeper into YTT training and eventually earning 800-hours of Yoga Teacher Training.
Through my YTT training and Spiritual Immersion in India, I’ve been exposed to every style yoga, but I’ve learned what "my jam" is. While I appreciate the quiet stuff, teaching long spiritual sessions isn't my specialty. I just don't have the patience! My passion lies with the "fidgety" crowd. That’s why my two favorite weekly classes are Yoga on Tap and my Calm and Strong session.
Check out my current Class Schedule Here.
When I teach Power Yoga or Vinyasa in a brewpub, I get emboldened. Expect Kriyas, loud breathwork (yes, that involves yelling), and community practices where we circle up to support each other in Airplane Pose. We sing, laugh, shake, and wiggle. If you want to feel alive, this is your spot.
My teaching style downshifts from "Bam!" to "Blessings" when I’m in the studio at Brookside Wellness Centre. There’s less yelling "Hell Yeah" and more exclamations of "Oh yeah... that feels good." It’s a peaceful vibe, but the strength and energy are still very much present.
Personally, I save the quiet stuff for home. To tap into my spiritual side, I do yoga just before sleeping (yes, in bed) or use bolsters in my living room for deep stretching.
While I am a "Yangi" teacher., I’ve calmed down a bit since my trip to India—I’ve even swapped my "Fuck yeahs" for a more accessible "Hell yeah!"—but I am who I am.
Read more about my Yoga Journey to India Here.
As a former half-marathon coach, I always told my runners: Don’t be a one-trick pony. Runners who only run and lifters who only lift often end up with burnout or injury. You need balance! Even with my heart disorder, I still burn my excess "Yang" at the YMCA in Group Fight or Group Power. It helps me burn off the "two cups of coffee" energy so I can be the best teacher for you. On the flip side, if most or all of your Yoga practice is on the Yin side, try adding some more energetic yoga practices into your schedule.
Yoga is the union of mind, body, and spirit, but it is also Kula (community). Mark your calendars! On Valentine’s Day at 10:00 AM, we’re hosting a Hearts and Harmony class at Picaroons. It’s a partner-based flow designed for connection and fun.
Register for Hearts and Harmony Here.
Yoga doesn't mean you have to be the calmest person in the room. I’m rarely that person, and I get exactly what I need out of my practice. If you can't sit still, come find me.
Kris Murphy | FEB 5
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