Dear Lisbeth, how long have you been doing yoga and how did you get into it?

I came to yoga about six years ago through my sister and my training as a physiotherapist. I used to scoff at yoga, but when I realized that strength training like CrossFit often comes with a risk of injury and that I needed more balance and grounding, I learned to appreciate yoga. I try to do yoga every day, even if it's just a short session in the morning or after a run. To be honest, I often don't manage it before work, as my workday starts very early, and of course, I need sleep... But generally, I'd say I do a longer yoga session of 60 to 90 minutes three times a week. I love yoga in those moments when I realize that ambition or illusions about the future are dominating my daily life and I'm no longer in the present moment. When I'm restless and unbalanced, that's exactly when I need yoga. In short, whenever I want to feel myself, get to know my body, and feel at home.

What forms of yoga do you practice or have you tried?

I've already tried several types of yoga, from Yin Yoga, Vinyasa, Kundalini, Ashtanga, and Hatha to Embodied Flow, in which I completed my training. I really hope to be able to participate in classes with different teachers again soon, not just virtually.

What fascinates you about yoga?

On the one hand, there's the philosophy and wisdom passed down for millennia, which are also fantastic and relevant from a medical perspective. On the other hand, there's this being with oneself, learning something new each time, whether through an asana, about one's own body, or one's own mind. It's also about getting to know oneself better through movement. And then there's the opportunity to bring the yoga vibe into everyday life, away from the mat.

What advice would you give to a yoga beginner, or why would you recommend someone start yoga?

Don't give up, and don't try to adapt to the yoga style – yoga adapts to you. There are good days and bad days. I have them too – I practice some poses for weeks, months, even years. So many people think yoga is only for super flexible people, but that's not true! It's about strength and stability, and mobility comes with that.

What were and are your biggest challenges in your yoga practice?

Right now (I'm laughing right now) I'm still working on inversions, forearm stands, and headstands. But honestly, I'm still too much of a chicken for handstands, but I'm seeing progress. :)

Do you have any other passions besides yoga? Do you practice any other sports or have any other hobbies?

I love yoga because all you need is yourself and your body, and ideally a beautiful setting – that would be the perfect ending. But besides yoga, I'm a passionate runner, mountaineer, and I'm currently learning to climb, which is incredibly fun. When I'm not outdoors being active, I love to cook, read, and travel.

Tell us about your career path; would you make the same decision again?

My path to physiotherapy was circuitous: I studied political science and sociology, failed the medical school entrance exam, and then found myself in physiotherapy. After finally completing my physiotherapy training, I faced the choice between medical school and yoga teacher training in Bali. I chose yoga and haven't regretted that decision for a second; I would do it exactly the same way again. Otherwise, I wouldn't have met the most important people in my life and would never have truly known myself.

Can you explain to us what a yoga treatment with neurological patients looks like? And what are the benefits of such a treatment?

Of course, the yoga session in rehab isn't as strenuous as a regular yoga class. For me, pranayama and body awareness are particularly important, as well as simple exercises that allow patients to reconnect with themselves. Breathing is also crucial, as it's essential for the regeneration of our nervous system, and through it, we can have a tremendous impact on sensitivity and perception. It's a constant reminder for me that not every pose has to be perfect; the goal is for everyone to be themselves and feel comfortable in their own skin.

Do you enjoy being in nature? Do you have a favorite spot or any tips for us on where to practice yoga?

By the lake, in the mountains, anywhere you feel comfortable. Austria has many beautiful spots, but it's more about where you feel most at ease.

You have some really beautiful pictures, how did you get into using Instagram more actively and what motivates you to use the account actively?

Hmm, I'm a bit tired of Instagram right now; it's always just a picture, not reality. In the pictures, I'm the happy yogi, but behind the scenes there's a lot of work and stress that I don't want right now and that doesn't reflect the Yoga Vice image. That's why I've decided to only work with companies that accept me as I am, allowing me to create and post content whenever I feel like it.

Is there a motto you live by that you'd like to share with us?

SO HAM - I am that. I am me when I am happy.

What do you wish for in the future?

To be able to travel again, teach yoga live, and communicate with people not just virtually. In 10 years, I would like to be self-employed as a physiotherapist and yoga teacher. But most importantly: to be happy and healthy.

Which is your favorite LUVIYO yoga mat design? Or what do you like about LUVIYO?

I really can't decide. I love the all-in-one yoga mat with the Terra Arts design, but I think the Marble Rose is my absolute favorite. And I think it's wonderful that buying a yoga mat helps support the big grey animals.