Yoga Teacher Spotlight: Daniel J. Blackburn

Yoga Teacher Spotlight

What inspired you to start practicing yoga, and how did it lead to teaching?

"Back in the 80's I was introduced to yoga through a spiral bound book from the American Yoga Association. My interest ebbed and flowed over the years.

Then, 15 years ago my wife Ann became a yoga teacher. Soon we bought a building and created Tula Yoga and Wellness. I was an executive leader at the time. A job I loved, but a healthy work life balance was hard to find.

After taking Ann's Soma Yoga classes, I noticed how much better I felt in my body and how my self talk became less harsh. The classes had an impact on my relationships, leadership style, and my health.

With curiosity piqued, I joined the teacher training and kept going, eventually becoming a yoga therapist. "

How has yoga transformed your life personally and professionally?

"The philosophy of yoga shifted my leadership style so much that I started giving all my newly promoted leaders a course I designed based on the teachings in the Yama's

It had a profound impact in the region.

Breath practices helped me to understand when I was moving into fight or flight and actively address anxiety in real time. Ultimately, the interoception I developed while practicing yoga saved my life.

In Early March of 2024 I felt a pain behind my left shoulder that didn't feel like anything I've ever felt. I was able to breath through it but, rather than ignoring it, I had it checked out.

Three weeks later I was on the operating table for a triple by-pass. If panic had ensued or I hadn't listened to that voice, I wouldn't be here today. Instead, I avoided the heart attack and am recovering nicely. "

What is your teaching philosophy, and how do you bring it into your classes?

"I believe we are spiritual beings having a human experience.

Every one of [us] is having a different experience and we are all here to evolve while walking each other home. Every practice has, within it, the possibility of dis-integration of our current life and how it's impacting us physically/mentally/emotionally.

It's followed by processing and reforming before moving towards the integration of the life we intend to lead.

Language is important. Cueing is from the center instead of the extremities as much as possible. I include mobility, stability and strength in every practice and design each class around feedback provided by the students.

So, there may be common practices in each class, but they are not rote. "

What advice would you give to someone just starting their yoga journey?

"There are many forms of yoga.

Be curious and find the style that appeals to you. If there is a teacher claiming their way is the only way, beware and move on.

Study the philosophy more than the postures.

Practice meditation.

Take care of your joints.

Listen to your body.

There is no reason to move into pain. Let your practice grow and bloom as you do. "

What’s one thing about you that might surprise your students?

"I had Thanksgiving dinner with Iron Maiden in 1984"

Connect with Daniel J. Blackburn