Samantha Duane
Instructor Interviews
With Samantha Duane
How were you first introduced to yoga?
I was 21 and a total gym rat. I had a gym membership that included classes and I took them all. Three times a week I would do a weight-step class and follow it up with yoga. I was skating competitively at this point in my life and was down to try anything to help my sore and kinked up body. I’m a pretty disciplined person and I quickly became hooked on the physical challenge of yoga. Little did I know I had only begun to scratch the surface of the challenge of yoga.
What made you decide to move beyond being a student to become a teacher?
On top of seeing the need from my clients, I was finally ready. It was something that had been swirling around me for quite some time. I have been in sports and fitness for so long, that adding yoga to my repertoire was part of my evolution as a teacher of movement.
What were you doing before you taught yoga?
Movement. Lots of movement! I have been a fitness instructor and personal trainer since 2012 and have recently added yoga as another offering. I used to double down and bartend and personal train for many years. Before that I was an artist’s assistant among other things. I’ve always enjoyed work that was social and physical.
How has your yoga practice changed since you began?
Oh my goodness, the evolution. I can’t wait to answer this question in a year from now and every year! I used to see it purely as a physical practice. I honestly, didn’t know any better and I was really standoffish to any kind of spirituality or deeper thinking when it came to yoga. The concepts were “non applicable” at that time in my life. I wasn’t ready for it. I’m still and forever learning how to live a balanced yogic lifestyle. I’ve gone from a rather forceful and ridged mindset to a playful, fun, and energetic practice. One that listens to my body. I’m a good steamroller, it’s a welcomed challenge to slow the mind, be a hunk of clay, and listen. A turning point came when I started to recognize some patterns in my life. Yoga kept being a source that would help me realign and would bring in clarity and balance. I started to crave yoga! After I started a regular practice I noticed a better connection to myself and a daily calming of my mind.
Is there a particular aspect of yoga you are especially intrigued with right now?
Physically- Hand stands, I love the playfulness, coordination, and focus that is required. I like upside down balancing. Meditation is always intriguing to me and is difficult to do.
What else have you studied in depth?
I’ve dedicated my life to movement! Most of my studies are movement based; personal training, weightlifting, roller skating, and roller derby. I’m also a dang good mixologist.
What are some of your other practices or passions?
Roller skating. Quad skates to be exact! It’s my happy place. Whether it’s long endurance skates, street skating, or jam/dance skating I love it all. I enjoy running and just started to mountain bike-holy moly is that fun!
When you really need grounding what do you do?
Come back to my breath and hit the mat. I also try to walk barefoot in my back yard every morning-yes even in the winter! Keeping up with this ritual is a nice physical reminder to stay grounded. I will also check in with family and close friends. Head down to the ocean or take a hike and connect even more with Pachamama.
Anything else you'd like to share?
I’m very excited to be on a roster of such talented teachers. Mandala is a special place and I look forward to serving and learning from this community.
Favorite Book
Just Kids, Patti Smith
I love Patti Smith. I have always felt like she spoke for me and that we’re kindred spirits. I love the way she writes, sings, and stands true to her beliefs. Just kids is a beautiful story of New York in the late sixties and seventies about two curious young artists. I just gobble up every word, line after line. I’ve read this book a few times, it’s just so well done. She paints the most beautiful scenes and transports you back in time. Experiencing her and Robert Mappplethrope’s life right along with them. Even Patti's song lyrics are mesmerizing works of art, I highly suggest all of her publications-and her albums too!