We’re back in the spotlight! Too often we are in a rush before and after class, so we do not get a chance to get to know what makes our teachers tick. We recently caught up with yoga teacher and Refresh Yoga Center Owner, Lindsey Miranda Canaley to learn a little more about her journey to the mat.
Hi Lindsey! Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for us.
Let’s start simple. We know your name. Do you have a nickname?
Sometimes people call me Linds, which I actually kind of hate 😉
What drew you to yoga?
I started with a VHS yoga workout. I then eventually worked my way to yoga classes in a gym. I stepped into my first studio in 2011 and haven’t gone back since! I’ve always been really interested in strength building and flexibility. Seeing yogis move through really challenging poses with ease has always really inspired me! I’ve also been a runner for most of my life, so finding a complementary practice is key!
Describe your first yoga class at a local yoga studio and tell us why you went to a second class.
I remember being so sore after! It helped that I was able to be a beginner in my own home, but it wasn’t until I started going to classes regularly that yoga and the draw of community really clicked. Seeing other people’s practices grow was really inspiring! 
What made you decide to become a yoga teacher?
I’ve always loved educating and being a part of other people’s yoga journey, even in a small way, is really inspiring. Yoga has been such a transformative part of my life and I love seeing it impact others.
What is your favorite asana (pose)/movement? Why?
I love downward facing dog [adho mukha Svanasana]! It’s so cliché, but I love how it feels in my body. It’s technically an inversion, so the mini rush from the head down and the heart up and the lovely hamstring stretch is the best!
Do you have a least favorite asana? Describe.
Side crow! I’m not very twisty and I’m not sure I’ll ever get into this pose!
What styles of yoga do you teach?
I teach Vinyasa Yoga, Prenatal yoga, Post-Natal yoga and workshops, Baby & Me Yoga Classes, Yin Yoga Classes, and Restorative Yoga Classes.
What do you do when you’re not teaching yoga and prenatal yoga?
I sell Real Estate for Keller Williams, Old Town. I also have an 18 month old and THREE cats! My husband and I love to travel and the outdoors.
What do you love about Refresh Yoga Center?
I love people and I love the local Old Town Yoga community. Refresh has a great energy and the perfect mix of classes depending on what kind of yoga I’m craving! I try not to take my practice too seriously and being around other yogis with similar attitudes is very nourishing.
Thank you Lindsey! Look for Lindsey around the local Alexandria yoga studio offering some fantastic assists in both the prenatal yoga classes and other vinyasa style classes.
Refresh Yoga Center serves the community of Old Town in Alexandria, Virginia; Ft. Belvoir, National Harbor, Arlington, Del Ray, Annandale, Belle Haven and Oxon Hill. Offerings include beginner yoga, stretch classes, bootcamp (Sweat and Refresh), prenatal yoga, senior yoga, and Baby & Me. Child care is offered several times a week. Find us on the 2nd floor at 110 King Street near the Torpedo Factory.