marcoujor: Introducing Lisa DeShazo

This week I'd like to introduce you to the daughter of one of my dear friends, Linda.  Her name is Lisa DeShazo. It was wonderful to spend a few days in June at Cape May, NJ with these two lovely ladies.

By Sunday evening, I had made another lifetime friend.  In our discussions, Lisa spoke of her career journey - sharing a brochure she had designed, detailing small group and personalized instruction she was offering in the healing modality of yoga.

We've stayed in touch. I was delighted when Lisa agreed to an interview - sharing her passion and thoughts about yoga with all of you.  Hoping you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did.

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Lisa DeShazo

Maria: What is yoga and how can it benefit us?

Lisa: Yoga technically means to ‘yoke’ or bring together.  It is a connection of self to ultimate truth, which some may refer to as God, etc.  

However, in our Western society, yoga typically brings up images of flashy yoga pants, a colorful mat and of course the ideal water bottle.  Although, these things may be useful for the practice, the essence of yoga is spiritual.  Yoga is a mind, body and spirit practice that is used as a complementary medicine.  

Much scientific research has been and is being done to elucidate how this practice yields to health benefits such as alleviation of depression, decreased BP and heart rate, amongst a host of other benefits. Some of which include skeletal muscular strength, durability and flexibility, which can be used to improve symptoms of MS and other neurodegenerative diseases.


​Maria: Please tell us about personal yoga journey.

Lisa: I began yoga to develop spiritually.  Having suffered from several addictions and discovering the key to recovery is acquiring a spiritual experience; I was drawn to the yoga practice.  I intuitively knew it would deepen my connection to a higher power.  It is an anytime, anywhere practice!

I started a teacher training program in 2012 and have been studying under the same teacher ever since.  I also traveled to India to meet and learn from Kino Macgregor and Tim Feldman.  These individuals are direct lineage of Sri Jois.  I plan to continue training with Tim Feldman whose studio is in Miami, Fl.

Maria:  What is your inspiration for sharing yoga with others?

Lisa: As I learned in 12 step programs, “you cannot keep it if you don’t give it away”. I feel as though the benefits I received are so incredible it would be selfish for me to not share.

In addition, my science and anatomy background provide me with a deeper understanding of the importance of this practice in terms of overall health.  The meditation and mindfulness can prevent a war if practiced regularly…either the internal or external war.

Maria:  Why do you prefer an individualized instruction/approach.

Lisa: In my opinion this is the ONLY way to teach.  It is important for a student to learn the how and why of proper technique which can best be accomplished by personalized, small group instruction.  Students can then venture out to larger classes once the foundations are established.

Maria:  Where are you / your practice located?

Lisa:  Times and location of classes are flexible. Millsboro, Delaware. Phone number is 302.465.4054

Maria:  What is the most rewarding aspect of this business?

Lisa: Passing on an life altering discipline not only helps others but deepens my understanding even more so.

Yoga is an inward journey that can best be explained via practice.​

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Thank you, Lisa.  I wish you every success as you pursue sharing your love and passion for yoga with others. I know that I want my first formal experience with yoga to be under your patient and individualized guidance.  I have a gaggle of girlfriends (they know who they are ☺) and plan to schedule a session with you soon.​

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ShoutOuts

​☙Talented Relatives – Marcus Coetser via THE COETZER & COETSER FAMILIES OF SOUTH AFRICA

​☙Violence in Children - Can we help? via WarnerWords

​☙Indie Biz: Griefing via flashPress

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Until next week, sending you wishes for peace and smiles,

mar