"After 12 years of competitive sports, I rediscovered myself in yoga."

We were able to learn from the active influencer ( @michellestaudenherz ) why the 23-year-old Austrian woman switched from student to teacher and what Michelle particularly appreciates about yoga after 12 years of competitive sports.

Michelle, what has your sports career been like so far?

Initially, I completed my high school diploma in the competitive sports program. Afterwards, I practiced Basic Pilates and the Mobility course. Currently, I am a fitness instructor and a diving instructor.

How did you come across yoga?

After 12 years of competitive sports, my shoulder was unfortunately severely overstressed and required three surgeries. This sadly ended my career. However, two years ago I discovered yoga as a form of rehabilitation after the surgeries.

I've also switched roles from student to coach and now train the Vienna youth team. Having learned so much from my own training and rehabilitation, I try to pass this knowledge on to the children as best I can.

Has yoga changed your well-being and your outlook on life?

Yoga has really helped me to listen to my body better. Now I try to spend a little time on my yoga mat every day. Since then, I feel much better because I consciously pay attention to my body and listen to what it needs. This is especially true during training, because in yoga you don't push yourself too hard, as is often the case in professional sports.

Do you teach yoga yourself, or are you planning to?

No, unfortunately I haven't completed any yoga teacher training yet. However, I definitely plan to do so and would then incorporate it into my personal training sessions.