Meet Les!
In whatever studio or space – indoor and out – Les brings his Yoga communities a ready and warm smile. Sometimes attending class along with sister, Christine, their Yoga can be a beautiful family affair. He usually has interesting stories to share whether focused on family, work or fun adventures fishing or doing Yoga on the beach – one trip he practiced seven days in a row!
All around he adds color and depth to our community and we are glad to have him! He is the Dew Yogi of the month for September. I asked him the usual questions about Yoga…
Q: How long have you been practicing Yoga?
A: I have been practicing yoga for about 8 years.
Q: What fills your time off the mat?
A: Off the mat I am a master carpenter, co-developed, and run the service department for a high end custom builder in Greenwich and Manhattan. For fun I seek out challenges in both my work and in my play. I have been known to restore classic boats but enjoy designing and creating just about anything. I love to sail and spend time on or near the water, and consider myself an amateur, if not sophomoric, photographer. I still play competitive soccer on the weekends and in national tournaments throughout the year. I keep up with friends and family as often as possible. For me life is more than ever about living, to experience a full and balanced life, to embrace and share love, and continually evolve as a passionate and compassionate human being.
Q: How does Yoga affect your life off the mat?
A: Throughout the years yoga has provided me with what I like to call my tool bag for well being. In this tool bag are all the essentials for navigating oneself through the intricacies of life. – the postures, poses, theories, the insight of teachers past and present, the gift of an open mind, the sensation of breath, and a willingness to explore.
On a physical level yoga has helped maintain my stamina and strength. I have increased agility, shortened my post match recovery time, and learned how to control my breathing. I would not be able to play soccer on the level I do without yoga. I am sure I would not be able to do a lot of things without yoga. Since I have been practicing regularly I no longer experience backaches- and when I do it’s almost always because I have been neglecting my practice! A wise Yogi once told me that in order to fit something into my “busy schedule” I must commit to it. I am glad I did.
On a mental level yoga has made me a stronger person. Using the principles of yoga I find I am able to better deal with things like stress and time management. My ability to focus has become keen. I am able to consciously shift my attitude and perspective. I have found energy I did not know I had and I have felt energy I still cannot see.
On a spiritual level I have become aware of my body and my mind. I have ascertained that everything really is somehow connected and there are no coincidences. I have learned to trust my intuition. I am thankful for every day. I am thankful for Jen, Elyse, and all of you in our yoga community, for helping me see the light and feel the magic that is life and love.
Q: What would you like to share with others about Yoga?
A: If I could share one thing with you about yoga-or anything else for that matter, it would be to make sure that your heart and soul are into it. Anyone can go through the motions. It takes determination and willpower to follow through. You will always be successful if you believe. And you can only really, truely, believe if your heart and soul are into it.
If you are in search of a master carpenter or wood worker contact Les, by email ctwooddoctor @ yahoo . com or call his cell (203)223-5450.
Fun, fun, fun to read! Good for you!