Meet Amy R. Allen
Welcome to the Yoga for Arthritis monthly blog series that features our YFA members hard work, dedication, & passion. Without the ongoing efforts of these standout members, we would not be where we are today.
How has yoga impacted your life?
Yoga has impacted my life by giving me a philosophy and practice that can adapt to my body’s needs. Dealing with pain and injuries that can spring up at any time, I can get frustrated with what I can/cannot do on any given day. Working with Dr. Steffany Moonaz and reading her book, Yoga Therapy for Arthritis: A Whole-Person Approach to Movement and Lifestyle, gave me the validation and tools I needed to restart my practice with the modifications I needed.
One of the most meaningful things yoga has taught me is a way to connect my mind, body, and spirit which translates to a calmer demeanour and more resilient state of mind daily. All in all, yoga offers me a sense of self-efficacy that I desperately need while living with an autoimmune disease. I’m so grateful to be a part of and learn from such a supportive community!
How did you find YFA? How has YFA helped you?
I found YFA after my rheumatologist recommended Dr. Moonaz’s Yoga for Arthritis video several years ago. That video provided me with the modifications I needed after learning that I had significant arthritis impacting my movement. Over time, I started to seek out additional information on yoga for arthritis and was thrilled when the Yoga Therapy for Arthritis: A Whole-Person Approach to Movement and Lifestyle book came out. I immediately sat down and read through the whole book… twice. The tone, tools, and thoughtfulness behind the book resonated with me and encouraged me to move toward a simple, daily practice that has expanded over time. Since then, I’ve sat in on a couple monthly YFA calls and even had the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Dr. Moonaz to tailor my practice.
Is there anything else you'd like to say about Yoga for Arthritis?
Why yoga for me? My “why” focuses on my family; they are what’s most important to me and they are why I strive to be as strong and connected as possible. Without the modifications I’ve learned through YFA and the accessible practice I’ve developed, I’m not sure I could continue to keep up with my growing, active young adults. I am very grateful for these resources and encourage all the teachers to keep in mind what a different you can make in the lives of others.
Amy R. Allen
I am a student of yoga and practice to keep my mind and joints flexible. Dealing with a chronic illness that leaves me sore, stiff and, at times, very fatigued, yoga nourishes my mind and body so that I can more freely live my life.