Cathy Getz in her favorite pose: Virasana
The Yoga Sanctuary: Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Cathy Getz: From my first trip to Florida with Grandma when I was 18, I knew I wanted to live here, so when my husband Jim and I retired in 2003, the move was imminent. Jim and I already owned a vacation home in Burnt Store Marina. I was raised by a fishing guide Dad and a Mom who loves to swim more than another activity (she is now 91), on Lake St. Clair in Michigan. Charlotte Harbor water was the draw.
I have been a student at TYS since 2007 and had been associated as a Staff Member/Retail Manager between 2010 and 2015. I call myself “Staff Emeritus” and still offer unsolicited advice and help when needed. I’m also a member of TYS’ first teacher training class in 2011.
TYS: When and why did you first start yoga?
CG: I started practicing at Burnt Store Marina in 2003 because I was curious and knew I needed something to slow me down. Two days a week was not enough and I began to search, finding Vibha Kumar, Virginia Williamson, and ultimately, Bonnie Yonker (former owner of The Yoga Sanctuary). I drove to Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte every day for class and connected with other Yogis. When Bonnie opened TYS in 2007 I had found a home.
TYS: What are the greatest benefits of practicing yoga?
CG: For me, the greatest benefit has been to learn to look at others with an open heart.
TYS: How has your yoga practice changed your health and/or life?
CG: I’m way less intense! (I know some may refute that!).
TYS: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?
CG: I have two, sitting in Virasana and Sarvangasana (even though I do not practice it as often as I should). I am well grounded in Virasana (Hero’s Pose) and can be very relaxed while still alert. Shoulderstand just feels good to me; the neck stretch and ability to focus are the two main reasons.
TYS: Do you have a favorite book or quote that you would like to share?
CG: Again, I have two. Both are from fortune cookies and are now taped to my computer! “Compassion is a way of being” and “You feel restless – change is just around the corner.”