R2RY October Featured Yogi: Annie Toivola

R2RY is honored to have community members who inspire each other through their persistence, diligence and living the values of yoga daily. Each month we're featuring a yogi from our community both as a model of inspiration and to share our support for their journey, knowing we cross paths for a greater purpose.  We’re proud to recognize one of our long-time community members, Annie Toivola, for October!  Here are some words from our interview with Annie:
 
I love yoga. I started practicing yoga 3-1/2 years ago after having not worked out for a while due to wrist and shoulder injuries. I've been with R2RY about 2-1/2 years.  I practice yoga for freeing my mind and challenging my body. I don't worry about other things when I'm doing yoga. Yoga has taught me to be more grounded and calm. I don't let things upset me as much as they used too. I've learned to breathe deeper instead of holding my breath to go through a pose or situation. My favorite memory is doing yoga in Costa Rica out in beautiful surroundings with nice people. One pose I like is shoulder stand because it's an inversion and there is no stress on my wrists. I encourage people to try yoga at their own pace and just start by stretching their body. 

---