Ruta used yoga to combat her anxiety disorders, multiple panic attacks, and mental fog. Read the following interview to find out how she overcame her fears and why yoga practice is her best teacher.

How long have you been doing yoga and how did you get into it?

I've been doing yoga for about five years. It first came into my life when I went to study in Scotland. After a while, I discovered that my university offered free yoga classes for students twice a week. After some time, I finally motivated myself to try yoga and see what it was all about, as I'd never done it before. At that time, I was struggling with an anxiety disorder and multiple panic attacks and brain fog, which started shortly after my 18th birthday. I was in therapy and tried all sorts of self-help and self-care tools, such as meditation, breathing techniques, and so on. After finally taking the plunge and trying yoga, I remember the immediate relief I felt after my first few classes. I was never a very athletic child, but I enjoyed going for a run or doing some exercises now and then. I knew how important physical activity could be for the mind. I attended the free university yoga classes whenever I could and later decided to try the "hot" yoga, which I'd heard so many positive things about. I signed up for a 30-day class at a nearby yoga studio and got hooked! I slept better, felt better, and even noticed some initial physical improvements. Afterward, I volunteered at the studio (cleaning mats and floors) to get free yoga classes—this allowed me to continue my yoga journey, as it was quite difficult financially as a student. I became addicted to yoga and gradually began to integrate it into my daily life. My anxiety and panic attacks didn't disappear overnight; I struggled with them for about three more years. The combination of yoga, meditation, self-help/self-love books, and podcasts helps me strengthen my trust and love for myself and my body, and learn to manage my anxiety on a daily basis. Now, when I notice anxiety coming on, I have all the tools to stop it in its early stages, before it overwhelms me. It feels amazing to finally be able to control it! I will be forever grateful to the practice of yoga for teaching me the tools to connect my body, mind, and breath.

What forms of yoga have you already tried?

I've tried many different types of yoga: Bikram, Aerial, Power, Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and much more! There are so many great ways to practice yoga, and I think it's important to try different styles to find out which one you like best—I especially recommend this to beginners.

My favorite style is Vinyasa flow, as I enjoy the creative aspect and the fact that each flow is different. I love letting my body decide what it needs in the present moment and letting it "flow out." In the summer months, I sometimes also enjoy practicing Ashtanga (I completed my yoga teacher training at a Vinyasa/Ashtanga-focused school).

Lately, however, especially during the winter months, I have fallen in love with the slow yoga practice, which works wonders for increasing flexibility and also for relaxation.

How often do you practice yoga?

I practice yoga daily, unless I can't because I'm traveling, etc. I prefer to practice in the morning to prepare myself for the day.

What fascinates you about yoga?

The connection between mind, body, and breath. For me, it's the time when I feel most connected to my body and mind. Yoga is my best teacher, and I'm more mindful throughout the day of how my body, mind, and breath are doing. It helps me be more present, grateful, and content. Besides, my body always feels amazing after practice! I think the combination of all these things keeps me coming back to yoga—on good days and bad.

Has yoga changed your outlook on life?

Absolutely. Yoga teaches me something new every day. First, yoga helped me build more self-confidence and self-love. It taught me that "I am enough," which had been one of my biggest doubts for many years. Second, it taught me to be more connected to my body and mind. Because I used to struggle so much with anxiety, connecting my body and mind was very difficult, and it felt like they led separate lives that I couldn't control. Yoga was one of my greatest teachers, helping me feel this connection and take control. Finally, yoga taught me to be gentler and more empathetic, and overall, a better and happier person. Since yoga has helped me on my own journey, I now want to share its many benefits with the world and help others transform their lives with it.

When did you complete your yoga teacher training?

I completed my yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India, in October 2019. After finishing my degree in Scotland and moving to Malta, I started my first full-time job in finance. However, it was a real struggle for me, as I didn't enjoy my job and felt I couldn't develop professionally. After three months, I quit and decided to enroll in the yoga school. I was so happy and proud of myself for trusting my instincts and following my dream! It was one of the best decisions I've ever made, because the whole experience was incredible!

Do you work as a yoga teacher or do you have another job?

Currently, I have a full-time job in marketing/events and teach yoga classes 3-4 times a week. However, I hope to be able to teach more someday.

How did you come to use Instagram more actively for your yoga practice?

As I began practicing yoga more regularly, I took photos of my progress. After a while, I started sharing them on Instagram. Many of my friends were interested in my yoga journey and began asking me for yoga tips. That's how my account slowly started to grow.

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

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." This quote by Mahatma Gandhi has accompanied me since I first heard it about 10 years ago. For me, this powerful quote is an important reminder that change begins within yourself, while the world is a reflection of that change.

My tip for beginners and those interested: That's why I recommend you start with yoga...

Just get started! Join the course, watch the YouTube videos, and see how good it is for your body and mind. I'm sure once you try it, you'll know for yourself! ;) If you need any tips or recommendations, feel free to ask!