Max Baker

I had surgery to repair the torn labrum, and the surgeon also shaved my femur bone to fit better into my hip socket. The doctors told me that I was not allowed to run or ice skate again, which was devastating for me since I grew up playing ice hockey, rugby, and cross country running. After a period of not exercising and not feeling very good about myself, I decided to give yoga a try. It was much harder than I thought it would be! I slowly began attending more classes as a way to get back in shape. Over time, my practice began to shift from a mode of exercise to a holistic and spiritual journey. I started practicing every single day, and my meditation practice started to overlap with my yoga practice. I had been meditating since 2003, but adding yoga to my life enhanced my meditation. I was able to go deeper into meditation and sit for longer periods of time. In early 2021, I started a year-long Yoga Teacher Training with Janet Stone, a highly respected teacher with over 30 years of experience. The training was transformational for me - my biggest shift was to understand the philosophy behind the practice, which is really the WHY behind everything that we do. The WHY is to connect and align - with my deepest self, with my community, and with the Universe. I now step onto my mat with a new mindset behind the movements. In early 2022, I became a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher. I hope to see you on the mat!