When we were looking place to hold our fall training kickoff meeting for August – we heard that the Cadence Yoga site was a very cool studio with a wicked cool owner. So, we contacted Mandy and she was so full of energy, passion and enthusiasm we knew right away that it would be a great night there with her! So, we wanted to interview her and learn more about Mandy and Yoga. So we had Sheila do a Q & A with her.
Hi Mandy!
ML: What’s shakin’, Sheila?
Tell us a little about you and how Cadence Yoga came to be?
ML: Well, I’m just a Yankee living the dream in OKC! After studying dance throughout my life and dancing professionally in Chicago, yoga found me. Long story short, I moved to OKC to open Cadence Yoga and share my passion with this awesome community. Also, I enjoy long walks on the beach…
How did you decide on “cadence’ as the name?
ML: Cadence is described as the “flow or rhythm of events, especially the pattern in which something is experienced.” Once I started to lean into the natural ebb and flow of life, I found a lightness in my heart and an openness in my mind. Thus, baby Cadence was born to help others embrace their rhythm.
Can you give us a little background on yoga in general & what type of yoga you teach?
ML: There are countless styles of yoga as well as aspects of a yoga practice. You can find an array of classes throughout the states from fast-paced with a focus on strengthening to restorative classes with a focus on healing. I teach physically demanding classes that always stem from an intention/idea for the evening. Every teacher at Cadence Yoga, however, approaches their classes from a different, refreshing perspective.
In your opinion, what are some of the most misunderstood things about yoga?
ML: Yoga is not a religion. Seriously. Anyone, with any theology/philosophy can practice yoga.
What are some of the funniest comments you’ve heard about yoga?
ML: I so often hear “I can’t take a yoga class – I’m not flexible.” This cracks me up, because it implies that everyone who practices yoga was already flexible when they first rolled out a mat. People become flexible (and stronger) as they continue to practice yoga!
Where do you see yoga and your company/brand going in the next five years?
ML: Yoga in OKC is expanding, Sheila! I see Cadence Yoga blending more communities together and participating in cultivating a healthier OKC.
How are you reaching the OKC Metro market and how are they responding?
ML: Cadence Yoga has partnered with a number of downtown businesses as a part of their “fitness in the workplace” programs. When people have a passion in life, they tell everyone about it. That’s exactly what’s going on, Sheila!
Many runners are investigating yoga to complement their training – how does that help them?
ML: It doesn’t. Just kidding – it totally helps! A good yoga class can help runners repair and elongate the muscles that they’re constantly firing. Yoga will also introduce lateral movements to a runner’s body, conditioning their often neglected muscles as well as help increase their proprioception.
How can people get plugged into Cadence Yoga?
ML: Show up! Our community is incredibly supportive and constantly growing. You can check out our class schedule and even some videos on our website: www.cadenceyoga.com
Anything else you think people need to know?
ML: Yoga is for everyone! Whether you’ve never even seen a yoga mat before or you’ve been practicing for decades, we’ve got your back.
