Teacher Spotlight: Chris Smith

We caught up with CPY teacher Chris Smith to talk about  his yoga practice. Chris is a longtime yogi, with over 16 years under his belt. You can find him in a C2 class — teaching AND taking — at our Bethesda studio in Maryland. 

Favorite Pose: Upward Dog, I love the moment when I catch my gaze in the mirror. Its a reminder that my time on my mat is for me.

Why I love yoga: I love yoga because it meets me where I’m at from day to day. 

How yoga makes me stronger: I think my teacher, Joel Klausler, says it best. “Yoga makes me joyful for the things I can do, and grateful for the things i have left to learn."

Outside of the yoga studio I stay grounded by: Surrounding myself with inspiring people who love life and what they are doing in it.

Advice to beginner yogis: Celebrate showing up to your mat. That's the most important part.

Favorite thing in my yoga bag: Wireless headphones so I can practice with music anywhere

What have I gained through practice: Discipline of doing one thing everyday and something that i can be passionate about in life and work

When I can’t get on my mat what helps me find steadiness: Whenever I need a moment and can’t jump on my mat, I read from either Meditations on the Mat by Rolfe Gates, Sweeping the Dust or An Offering of Leaves— both Ruth Lauer Manenti. Each book has short little bits that I can read and no matter what, I get what I need.