Gold Standard SPOTLIGHT

I am honored to share a little about our Gold Standard SPOTLIGHT, Chris M., Advanced Gold Standard Yoga4Sobriety Instructor, with the community.

In this short interview, Chris shares her heartfelt thoughts.

What inspired you to go above and beyond to complete the Gold Standard in your Yoga4Sobriety™ training?

I was inspired to pursue the Gold Standard because I wanted to further the depth of my practice. Yoga4Sobriety offers a framework that honors both my spiritual path and my recovery journey. Going above and beyond wasn't about achievement; it was about alignment with my values, my healing and my desire to be of service.

How has Yoga4Sobriety™ influenced your personal recovery or spiritual journey?

Yoga4Sobriety has helped me integrate my body, mind and spirit in a way that traditional recovery programs haven't. It gives me the language and structure to explore the energetic nature of the steps and the traditions while deepening my connection to my Higher Power through embodied practice. It reminds me that recovery is about more than just putting the substance down - it's about realizing my true nature as a spiritual being.

What’s next for you? How do you plan to share what you've learned through Yoga4Sobriety™ with your community or clients?

My next step is to create a safe, welcoming space, both online and in person, where people in recovery can explore the intersection of yoga, sobriety and spirituality. I'm offering classes that align the 12 steps and traditions with the chakra system to offer participants a deeper embodied experience of healing. My intention is to lead with compassion and meet people where they are.

If you could offer one piece of wisdom to someone just beginning their Yoga4Sobriety™ journey, what would it be?

Be gentle with yourself. This work invites deep healing and it unfolds in layers. You don't need to figure it all out or do it "right" - just keep showing up with an open heart and a willingness to be curious and allow it to evolve. Trust the process. The integration of yoga and recovery have a way of meeting you exactly where you need to be, even if it doesn't feel like it at first.

Thank you, Chris, for your continued commitment and service to the recovery community.