Student Feature: Cicely Parseghian

1. How would you describe yoga?

A practice that helps me to more fully appreciate and be present for the beautiful gift that is my brief shining moment alive in my body on this Earth.

2. How did you find your way to yoga?

I tried yoga a few times in college and law school but never really committed to it or found my place. Years later, after the birth of my second baby (and years of focusing too much on work and not taking good enough care of myself), my body was a mess and I was desperate for a change and a path. My husband pointed me to Lila, which is also our daughter’s name. We came to try it on a date night, and I fell in love.

3. What are the ways your asana practice serves your everyday life, your family, your work, your community?

I revel more in the gift of each new day, my body (where I’m so much more at home), and my breath. I’m more present with my kids, clearer-minded for my work, and better about setting boundaries because, for the first time in a long time, self care has become one of my priorities.

4. What draws you to the Lila community?

The warmth. The teachers. That everyone is welcome and encouraged to both be and grow.

5. What inspires you to keep practicing?

Thoughts of my kids and my husband. The way it feels to breathe after an hour of yoga. Remembering where I started, how far I’ve come, and all that I still want to learn.

6. What would your ideal yoga class look like, feel like, and be like?

Gentle snow outside, twinkle lights and warmth inside, and the smell of chai. Or outside on a sunny day, with a view and a gentle breeze, and the sound of kids playing nearby. Either way, lots of hamstring stretches, balance poses, twists that crack my back just so, and a headstand for fun. Then savasana next to my love, holding his hand.