Julie (Jewelz) Whipple

How long have you practiced yoga? How often per week? Tried my first class in college in 2007, after much convincing by a girlfriend; practiced on my own off and on from 2008-2013 when I started regularly attending the free classes with Cathy at the Harbor and have been practicing 1-3 times per week since May 2013.

What made you decide to practice Yoga? I initially tried it as a relaxation aid during mid-terms in college, but have found that it helps me deal with anxiety, depression, and epilepsy symptoms.

What do you like about practicing Yoga at Fort Washington Park? It offers both breath-taking scenic views and a unique setting.

What is your favorite yoga pose and why is it your favorite? Bird of Paradise or Wheel Pose. They each offer their own unique challenges; Bird of Paradise I had to practice for a few months before I could actually do it, so I felt accomplished when I finally could complete it. I enjoy the back-bending aspect of Wheel Pose and how it can make you see things from literally, a whole new perspective.

Describe how Yoga has enhanced or changed your life: Yoga has helped me to accept myself, including all the flaws, imperfections, and mistakes as part of a unique whole. Life almost never goes as planned, but by making the connection between mind and body that yoga has led me to, I have found myself being able to reach into inner strength and abilities that I didn’t even know I possessed prior to practicing on a regular basis.

PHOTOS BY GREG…THE FOREVER YOGI