Meet the creator of the yoga-hybrid DVD Yogalosophy, Mandy Ingber. As popular as yoga is around the world, Yogalosophy is in a world of its own and it’s just in time for Mother’s Day. Her second book, Yogalosophy For Inner Strength: 12 Weeks to Heal Your Heart and Embrace Joy will be released May 10, 2016.
Be prepared to conquer any doubts and apprehensions about your body since becoming a mom. As Mandy’s body changed, she too had to adjust to not being thin and in shape – leaving the body image she adored behind with only a 50 lb weight gain to comfort her – and no baby to show for it.
Many “pre” moms can relate to being thin, in shape and having their personal identity literally shape them by their body image. Their body image may be what makes them feel so lovable and attractive. However, if you lose your shape, you may be feeling like you are in a crisis, and now you don’t know who you are anymore. Well, you’re not alone; meet Mandy Ingber – in her 20’s she struggled with her body image and thus she made a deliberate and conscious choice.
You have been able to thrive abundantly in your life despite the challenges of your perceived body image. How did you do it?
So I made a conscious choice to accept my body as is. With the extra weight. It was at that time that I was approached about being a spinning instructor. I honestly couldn’t believe that anybody would listen to my advice if I wasn’t what I considered the ideal weight. It was 1996 and I began to teach self-love through positive self-talk about my body. I decided to focus on how good it felt to be in my body and all of the wonderful benefits that had nothing to do with how I looked or what would be the external result. I learned that loving my body didn’t have anything to do with the way I looked and that I could feel wonderful if I focused on gratitude. It certainly was a game changer to release my self-judgment, and it changed my life for the better.
Tell us about what you have gained among your circle of expert friends that have inspired you to write your first book.
My first book, Yogalosophy: 28 Days to the Ultimate Mind-Body Makeover, was inspired by my 15 years of experience teaching. I taught group classes to moms, teens, cancer patients, celebrities, competitive athletes, and I always taught from a gentle, “love your body into shape” perspective. I am so inspired by my students because I get to connect with people in a space where they are taking care of themselves. No matter how high-powered or busy or overwhelmed, I was able to connect with each person on a universal level. My first book was an accumulation of my teachings. We all have something to share, and I am inspired by the connection. Each woman and man in my circle of friends has his or her own unique perspective on life. I appreciate that in humanity. Nobody has your exact perspective and experience, so if you don’t share that, that piece of humanity doesn’t get expressed.
I am particularly inspired by people who have come through tough times and have a strength and a special superpower that they have discovered in the process. Each of my friends who have contributed to the book possesses a talent or a view that makes them more beautiful and strong.
With your experience in working with celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Helen Hunt and Kate Beckinsale how can the “average” mom use some of your expertise to help them in their everyday life?
The bottom line is that no matter if you are a celebrity or an “average” mom, everyone has a body that needs to be cared for… nobody gets to avoid that. In the same way, celebrities also have tough times. Just because you are in the public eye or well-known doesn’t protect you from life’s circumstances or being human. My expertise is the same across the board. It’s about being intimate with yourself where you are, acting your way into correct thinking, fueling and nurturing yourself properly, getting grounded and making space for yourself by slowing down, connecting with others so that you feel your impact upon the world, and treating life like a mysterious adventure that is ever evolving and providing you with new, exciting lessons. Meditate, move your body, feed yourself well, connect, and be open. Whether it’s you or Jennifer Aniston, those are our common human needs.
This Mother’s Day, what should moms focus on when it comes to embracing the joy of motherhood?
That’s easy — gratitude. Focus on what you do have. Focus on what you are doing well, and allow yourself to let go of the things that are out of your control. Writing a list of 10 things you are grateful for, 10 things you did well and 10 things you cannot control is a great practice. I do it daily.
Please tell us about your latest book: Yogalosophy For Inner Strength: 12 Weeks to Heal Your Heart and Embrace Joy.
It’s a companion book that will help to guide you on a 12-week journey to healing and reconnecting with your heart. It can help to heal your heart and work through transitional times through physical movement, including 5 exclusive yoga routines and activities for every day of the week. The program incorporates playlists, meditations, recipes, and rituals to realign your heart, mind, body, and spirit. I actually wrote myself through a very difficult year and have helped many clients move through transitions, so I am sharing my experience.
How would a mom get started with this type of lifestyle, starting from scratch in order for it to be a long-term lifestyle change?
Start with small steps. I suggest starting with one right action daily. Schedule time for yourself the way you would an appointment, even if it’s 30 minutes. This 12-week program is designed for you to pick and choose, so do what feels doable. There is no rush or pressure; it’s simply about getting in the habit of connecting to your own heart.
It’s so important to remember yourself when you are a mom, because there are so many others, especially your child, that need you. However, placing the oxygen mask on yourself first is essential.
Despite the challenges of body image and expectations, Mandy Ingber has decided how she will live her life, no matter the body type, shape, form or size. Read more about her inspiring story and her other books by visiting Amazon.com.
Don’t forget, you can also practice 3 Yoga Routines To Relax, Reset and Recharge Your Toddler! Go check it out and take care of all of you in love, mind, body, and soul.
Photo Credits: Peter Dutton, Ava Randa, CATHY PHAM on Unsplash
