Yoga Unfolding: Embracing Growth as a Practitioner & Teacher

Evolving as a yoga student and teacher involves curiosity, somatic exploration and the desire for continuous learning, self-discovery and growth both on and off the mat.  When I first stepped onto the mat under Terry Cockburn's guidance, I couldn't have predicted the transformation that awaited me and how profoundly her knowledge and teaching would influence my own personal practice and teaching style.   Together we unravel the journey of yoga beyond just postures, sharing insights into its impact on personal growth.Terry and I  discuss: the difference between functional alignment (adapting poses to suit each individual body) vs. aesthetic alignment (visually perfect pose),the essence of a nurturing yoga practice,  creating an embodied practice - developing a deep awareness and a connection to the body,  the hurdles we’ve had to overcome as teachers, especially during the pandemic, and importance of keeping an open line of communication with students and guiding them toward health and progression in their yoga practice.  a shared love of Qigong and how incorporating it into your practice supports a healthy cultivation of energy. Through our shared experiences, we aim to inspire and support you in creating a daily practice, enriched by education and community. Terry's journey from learning yoga to becoming a teacher, trainer, studio owner and a creative energy behind the River Bird Sangha and school, reminds us of the power yoga has that shapes, not only our bodies, but our life’s direction. For thirty years, she has worked in the fitness and yoga industry as a trainer to individuals, teams and yoga schools and owned a vibrant community-based yoga studio, before pivoting to teaching online full-time with her  and partner Josh Summers.  Links: Riverbird Sangha Website                  InstagramEveryday Sublime PodcastMentions:John Munro www.longwhitecloudqigong.comLaurel Beversdorf  https://laurelbeversdorf.comKen Cohen's Book https://www.qigonghealing.comPaul & Suzee Grilley https://paulgrilley.comStephanie Keach https://youryoga.com/about/Mimi Kwo-Deemer  https://www.mkdeemer.comRose Wippich is an Energy Alchemist, Reiki Master Teacher, qigong and yoga instructor, and author of Empress Rising. She's here for the woman who knows she's ready for something more — the one who feels the pull of her next chapter but isn't quite sure how to step into it.Through her book, podcast, and teaching, Rose inspires and guides women in midlife to reclaim their energy, identity, and voice — and step boldly into their Empress years.📖 Book: EMPRESS RISING: Own Your Energy, Trust Your Wisdom & Rewrite the Rules of Aging. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast.Please review  ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ via Apple Review or Podchaser. Produced by Rose Wippich | Chat Off The Mat Podcast© 2026 Rose Wippich