Amanda Belch

Amanda has been a devoted student of yoga and meditation for most of her life. A deep commitment to the practice led to her passion for teaching yoga and meditation. Amanda loves to practice with and teach people from various walks of life with varied goals, encouraging them to stay healthy and active. She travels to many studios all over Tucson as well as teaches yoga to university swimmers and divers. Her classes incorporate effort, joy, yogic philosophy and, most importantly, fun. Students are met at their own level and encouraged to grow at their own pace. “Yoga has taught me to seek, find and honor the beauty in all people and circumstances in life. Being recognized in the community as a gifted instructor is one of the many blessings of this journey.”

Is there some specific event that caused you to become involved in yoga?

I've been involved in yoga on and off for most of my adult life. Then ten years ago I met my teacher and found the style that suited me and have been on a steady course of practicing and teaching since then. This is what I tell students; if you don't find the style or teacher you like at first, keep trying until you do. I believe there is a yoga practice to suit every level and age of practitioner.

Do you think that yoga is more effective in certain circumstances than is traditional health care?

I seldom opt for traditional health care. While we are fortunate to have the medical advances we do and medical professionals available when necessary, I believe a consistent healthy lifestyle goes a long way toward optimal health. Yoga marries the important components of breath, strength, stretching, toning, and in many cases even spirituality. This whole body mind approach in my opinion can drastically reduce the need for traditional healthcare.

If you could describe how yoga has influenced you life in just ONE word, what word would you use?

Transformation

Do you teach men in your classes? Do they learn differently than women?

I love to teach men in my classes! While men's bodies tend to be stronger and less flexible, their approach to the practice tends to be very lighthearted and fun while dedicated and attentive. Stronger, stiffer bodies gain flexibility more easily than hyper flexible bodies gain strength so men often get quick results which is gratifying for the teacher and students and keeps them coming back.

What are your favorite lucy items to wear while teaching class?

I love lucy yoga crop pants, I have the Asana pant and I just got the new Lotus pant. They are so comfortable. I love the fact that the waistband is a bit higher in back and moderately lower cut in front. These pants allow me to perform demos in full confidence when I teach. I can also go around town in comfort between classes. I've had the Asana pants for over a year and they still look and feel new.

Amanda is wearing the lotus Capri and the lucy Definition Racerback.