and 
MICHAEL MORE
OM yoga teacher, Yoga 101 & Restorative yoga assistant. Michael teaches OM yoga ~ Power, Fridays 4:45-5:45pm
Michael began taking yoga classes in health clubs in 2002, and became a member of the Evolution Yoga Community in 2007. Evolution opened his eyes to yoga’s potential and turned his yoga workout into an inspired yoga practice. He is a graduate of the OM Yoga 200 Hour Teacher Training program, and credits his many teachers, classmates, and students for their positive contributions to his life’s learning and deepening spiritual development.
As an Engineering Professional, Michael understands how a design’s geometry contributes to its structural integrity, and easily translates the principle to pose foundation, balance, and motion in his teaching. Body mass and center of gravity are key considerations and when combined with the students’ breath, strength and flexibility, can give way to enhanced precision in every pose.
Michael shares his yoga journey with his wife Carol. “Carol inspires me and will always be a role model. My wife’s one of my favorite yoga teachers and I learn from her every day.”
Personal Yoga Journey
When did you start practicing yoga?
About nine years ago in a health club. My wife suggested that yoga might heal my “runner’s knees” and invited me to join her in a class. I saw an immediate benefit and have maintained a practice ever since.
How long did you practice before you decided to become a teacher?
Nearly eight years. My wife completed her OM200 Teacher Training in 2008 and I witnessed a marked improvement in her practice, and her understanding of yoga’s principles was enahnced. I knew the training would help me further develop my practice too, ultimately enabling me to help others.
How do you take your yoga practice off the mat?
I do some of my best thinking on my mat, and try to take what I resolve there into the world after each practice. I love the simple peace and purity of thought that results from being on my mat. That purity of thought enables me to be “in the present.” I ride motorcycles, so being “in the present” is paramount to my safety. You’re vulnerable on a motorcycle, so to be calm, focused and in the present allows for a controlled response to whatever situation may arise.
What are some of your favorite yoga poses and why?
I like the big, open poses like Trikonasana, Ardha Chandrasana, or Uttihita Parsvakonasana. The geometry of these poses is so evident and beautiful. There’s truly “art” in the architecture of a room full of well-executed Extended Side Angle poses.
Advice to Students
What advice would you give to students just beginning yoga?
Be patient with yourself and your practice. Let go of any preconceived expectations and remember…..no one’s judging your performance. Yoga’s not a competitive sport.
What advice would you give the more seasoned yoga student?
Give yourself permission to remain a beginner. Always strive for precision in your practice, and let go of any unachievable quests for perfection.
I knew I loved yoga when:
I quit hurting myself at the Health Club just to stay in shape, and found a finer sense of well-being in a yoga class.
Little known facts about me:
I have serious attachment issues in my life currently,…..but I really am trying to be “free from attachment and aversion.”
Favorite Comment/Quote:
“Your fancy Lululemon pants aren’t going to help you now….!!” Bryan Kest
I saw this quote recently and found it hilariously funny, yet totally pertinent. It spoke clearly to me of the importance of shedding the thin coverings we try to hide within.
Books & Music
What are you reading now?
“Tales from the Yoga Studio” by Rain Mitchell
I was drawn to this fictional work because of its glimpse into the “modern” yoga studio and its classic clichés. The book provides a humorous view of what yoga has become in our Western culture, yet reminds us of its “fundamental” roots.
What artists are on your current playlists?
Krishna Das of course….because no one does it like Krishna Das! I also include Wah!, Donna De Lory, and many other classic/contemporary artists from various genres.
Why do you play music in your classes?
Music is important to set the class’s tone/pace, especially in a vinyasa class. I can see the energy increase as a student connects to a favorite song. Having music in a class also adds validity to a well-placed segment of silence during a cool down or Savasana.
$9 classes with a new teacher to you!
...take a class with a teacher you have NEVER tried before for $9 (It's our 9th anniversary!). Take 3 classes for $9 and earn free classes: buy a 24 pass this month and get 9 bonus classes or a 12 pass and get 3 bonus classes...
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