Selina ( @diieselly ) knew she had to change her unhealthy lifestyle and discovered yoga four years ago. She told us in a very interesting conversation why she learned so much through yoga and how the discipline showed her what it means to truly live again.

How long have you been doing yoga and what motivated you to start?

I've been practicing yoga since January 2016. My lifestyle was simply unhealthy, and I wanted to feel good again. After changing my diet, I discovered yoga by chance. I wanted to stay fit in a fun way with "Wii Fit" and tried out yoga there as well. I was immediately hooked and ordered everything I needed right away. In the beginning, I learned a lot from YouTube, Instagram, books, and other yogis and yoga teachers. A new lifestyle began for me.

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

I really enjoy practicing classical Hatha yoga, but I also like to try Ashtanga/Vinyasa yoga. I love combining different styles of yoga. I listen to my body to know whether I need something calming or more dynamic. I've also tried Aerial, Yin, and Ashtanga yoga.

What does your perfect yoga class look like? Do you use music or scented candles?

My perfect yoga session always includes music, usually nature music or yoga music. Depending on my mood, I might also light a scented candle. Warm tea or cold water is always a must. I always practice on a non-slip yoga mat, and depending on the poses, I also use props like blocks, FeetUps, Parellets, a meditation cushion, or yoga straps.

What fascinates you most about yoga?

What fascinates me about yoga is the endless learning. You can constantly improve and set new goals.

Through yoga I have learned so much: mindfulness, patience, self-love, and of course, the practice itself. It's incredible how my attitude towards life and myself has changed since then.

To what extent has your outlook on life, your demeanor, and your well-being changed since then?

I had an eating disorder and several food intolerances, which severely limited me. At that time, I had absolutely no self-confidence. Everything revolved around conforming to the beauty ideal, being thin and perfect. Yoga showed me what it means to truly live again. I became more self-confident, more patient, and have since been able to manage my intolerances much better. I became more grateful for life and the people who are part of my life. I also realized what is good for me and what isn't, and what I want to achieve in life. My entire outlook on life has changed, and I feel reborn.

I haven't completely overcome my eating disorder yet, but I feel comfortable in my body. I am perfect just the way I am, despite the stretch marks and bloating.

Why do you think yoga is so popular right now?

Yoga is a trend, but once you try it, you'll love it! Many of my friends initially thought yoga was boring. But I was able to convince them, and now they love it too. Yoga is so much more than just a sport, as more and more people are realizing. It's about finding inner peace. Besides the physical challenge, there are so many other reasons why it's worth practicing yoga regularly.

Do you already teach yoga, or would you like to complete a yoga teacher training course?

I already give my friends tips for yoga and stretching. I actually wanted to complete my first yoga teacher training in March 2020, but I had to postpone it. You'll find out why soon on my Instagram profile @diieselly .

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

Don't think so much about what you lack, but about what you have.

Do you have any specific goals that will accompany you in 2020?

I want to delve deeper into the topics of sustainability, personal development, and the history of yoga, and expand my practice. I want to gain even more insights and knowledge in these areas.

My goal is to be just as happy at the end of the year as I am now.

What do you wish for in the future, in the next 10 years?

My dream is to marry my boyfriend, start a family, and adopt a dog in addition to my cats. It's important to me to continue spending lots of time with my loved ones and to remain grateful for what I have.

Regarding yoga, I would like to get even fitter and do yoga training and further education.

Why do you recommend this sport?

Yoga can improve your flexibility, stability, stamina, coordination, posture, and even self-confidence. It reduces back pain and tension. Yoga is also a great way to relax. Proper breathing helps you become calmer and learn to cope better with stress.

Which is your favorite LUVIYO product?

I love my Purple Leaves yoga mat! The design, colors, and quality are simply superb. I also recently ordered the yoga blocks from LUVIYO.