1. What made you try yoga for the first time?
After a highly invasive surgery failed to repair a recurring shoulder injury during my senior year of high school, I was looking for a way to build strength as well as cope mentally and emotionally with the frustrations of what would be a life-long injury. As a competitive athlete (and somewhat of a perfectionist), the idea of not being able to fix this problem was incomprehensible. My yoga practice evolved from a lesson in acknowledging my physical imbalances to a greater respect and appreciation for the beauty and skill of all bodies.
2. What are you focused on in your teaching right now?
Cultivating more interpersonal relations. The practice of yoga can be a powerful individual experience, but it is my deep belief that the magic happens when we come together as a community and share in the practice together.
3. What inspires you?
Breathing deeply in fresh air. When I’m surrounded by the natural stillness and sounds of the forest and the mountains, I feel so alive and embraced by the wilderness.
4. Best trip you've ever taken?
In college I spent three months living in northwestern Montana; I drove cross country to get there, and once there, I lived in an old U-haul that had been converted into a camper. I would spent 4 days working long shifts at a restaurant followed by 3 days spent backpacking, camping, and pretty much any type of adventuring in Glacier National Park and the surrounding wilderness areas. Never before had I been exposed to so much wild land and indigenous culture. It was a thrilling adventure that will always sit deep in my heart and memory.
5. Favorite restaurant on the Cape?
Rock Harbor Grill! I have traveled a lot and I love food (a lot), and this is one of the only local restaurants that appeases my ambitious foodie heart. They have so many great staples, as well as infusing their own unique flair to traditional dishes.
6. How do you stay balanced? How do you unwind?
I find cooking and baking extremely therapeutic – especially when doing so for other people. I also love taking my pup for long walks in the woods or on the beach, and watching her immerse herself in the smells and sounds of nature.
7. What's your favorite part of teaching yoga?
Beginning class in a manner that is grounding and centering. I love being able to be a part of the experience as students become calmer, both physically and energetically.
8. Words (or quote) you live by?
Be happy in this moment, for this moment is your life. (Omar Khayyam)
9. How do you try to live a mindful life?
I’m constantly inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh’s mindfulness based mediation practice, as well as Jon Kabat-Zinn’s research and writings (for those of you not familiar, Kabat-Zinn’s book Wherever You Go, There You Are is an excellent guide.) These teachings have helped me find clarity and grounding in my everyday life.
Quinn teaches Flow + Restore Yoga on Saturdays at 4pm. View the full class schedule here.
