Growing up in South Carolina, Channing left briefly to attend Middle Tennessee State University. There, she developed a passion for yoga and realized that yoga is doable for anyone at any level of flexibility or strength. She reaffirmed her love for yoga, and incorporated the breathing techniques and meditation into into her daily routine throughout her pregnancy. Channing pursued her interest in yoga by receiving her 200-hour certification in Vinyasa Flow from Gotta Yoga, which is based in Charlotte, NC. Additionally, she is currently training, through Holy Cow in Charleston, SC, to receive her 500-hour yoga teacher certification. She can teach to a variety of people due to her training in Prenatal Yoga, Gentle, Yoga, Yin Yoga, Backbending, and Ayurveda. She is currently a teacher at Pink Lotus Yoga Center in Lexington, SC. Not only is Channing amazing in the world of health and wellness, she also is big on family! She loves to spend time with her husband and two wonderful children, and even caters to that family environment in her “Where your Baby” yoga class!
Q&A with Channing Anderson!
Q: How did you come up with the wear your baby yoga class?
A: I wanted to take one! Isn't that how it goes? I saw there weren’t a lot of options for mamas with new babies. Most Mommy and Me type classes don't start until the baby is older. I wanted a option for new mamas to get out, bond with other new mamas, and move a little, while bonding with baby. I'm so fortunate Pink Lotus and Rooted has given me the space to provide this valuable service to new mamas.
Q: I also noticed you have classes that are for different speeds and levels (slow flow and warm detox). What are some of the benefits to each of these and how did you decide to have them as classes?
A: Slow Flow is my style 100%. I am a vinyasa girl begrudgingly! I started yoga with a very traditional Hatha style teacher, meaning long holds and little flow. Slow Flow is a mixture: the long holds give the poses time to develop in the body, and the flows encourage unifying breath with movement. Warm Detox came about thanks to some students at Pink Lotus. I made detoxing the theme one night and students said it should be that way all the time. The class is great for spine health as it focuses on twists, deep folds, and back bends. The room is about 80 degrees, just warm enough to sweat the gunk out.
Q: I read online about how yoga has had a healing effect for you! Based on your experiences with yoga, what would be your favorite aspect of yoga?
A: I started yoga at my doctor's behest. I have scoliosis, and yoga can help prevent further curvature. After having my first child, I bulged a disc. Through careful practice, I am no longer in pain from it. I also used yoga to rehab after my old friend relaxin wrecked havoc after my second child. While the physical part is awesome, I know yoga has healed me in other ways too. My body awareness and acceptance has sharpened, and I am better able to react to situations with kindness...sometimes it takes a few extra breaths though.
Q: Other than yoga, what are some of your favorite things to do in your spare time?
A: I like to write, and paint. You can check out my musing on my website namamamaste.org . I also really love doing makeup on others.
Q: If you could live anywhere else in the world where would it be and why?
A: Mallorca, Spain. My husband and I honeymooned there and it is the most beautiful, and relaxing place in the world. Clear waters, gorgeous mountains, laid back culture.
Q: What is your favorite part of the Columbia area?
A: I love that Columbia has different parts, Main Street, Devine Street, Vista, Millwood, and, of course, my hood Lexington. Something is always going on, and each community has its own vibe. One of my favorite activities is to park my car and explore different areas with my kiddos.
