In Conversation with Sona Sharma: Embracing Yoga, Family, and Life's Adventures

Introducing Sona Sharma: A dedicated mum, yoga teacher, and part-time fundraiser, Sona's journey with yoga began in childhood, influenced by her Indian heritage. Inspired by the transformative power of yoga, she embarked on a path to become a teacher, blending her passion for movement with a deep sense of community. Through her teachings, Sona witnesses the profound impact yoga has on her students' lives, guiding them toward strength, resilience, and inner peace.

1. Tell us a bit about yourself…

Well, I’m a mum of two beautiful young men, one of whom has a rare genetic syndrome, and to Scout our gorgeous spaniel. I’m married, twenty years, to Bill and yoga teacher since 2001. 

I love dancing, the arts, being in nature and ensuring I make the most of everyday, especially as time seems to be speeding up! I tend to pack in as much fun and downtime as I work full time and often long hours. 

 2. What does a typical day look like for you? 

I’m an early riser and love the quiet of the house and village in Kew where I live. I start with a good stretch practising soft yoga and add in some strength work and daily dog walks are always a priority.  Everyday few days I jot down some lines in my journal, it could be a dream or something that is special to remember or sometimes a grumble to off load. 

As a part time fundraiser and yoga teacher, the blend of both is a wonderful and great balance for me. I teach three nights a week so self care is v important. To switch off I read, get into a good series or podcast and practise restorative yoga and include a daily post lunch Nidra. 

 3. How did your yoga journey begin and what inspired you to become a yoga teacher?

From childhood. I’ve always been a bit of a tomboy and very sporty and into dancing so movement is something I have to do. As I’m from an Indian heritage my parents used chanting, meditation and the whole spectrum of yoga as they raised us three kids. When I left home at 21 and moved to London I really missed the connection and community that family and yoga life offered. I needed that safe space and was drawn to the Sivananda yoga centre in Putney and did course after course. 

One day, one of the Swami’s tapped me on the shoulder and asked whether I considered doing TTC (teacher training course). At that time I was on the cusp of making a change in my life. My advertising career wasn’t fulfilling me and needed a different direction. So after some thought and planning, I took the plunge and quit. I spent a month training in Austria. My learning and practise evolved from there and it went from there. 

4. How have you seen yoga benefit your students?

Everyday day and every time during and especially at the the end of a class/session. I see them transformed. It’s in their eyes shining, the glow and softness in their face, voices and how they move in a lighter, freer and taller way. 

It’s benefitted students as they’ve used yoga techniques whilst their undergoing treatment for illnesses, health issues and the everyday challenges of life. My students report feeling more able to tackle life’s rollercoaster ride whilst their body becomes stronger and looser. 

Yoga is for all and as I teach pregnancy, mum and baby through to the menopausal stages and beyond, I really see everyone benefit. Men too! It’s my rock as a parent carer! 

 5. What advice would you give to someone just starting out on their yoga journey? 

Find a good teacher and class, which might mean you trying a few to find the style to suit you, your age and ability. Then keep practising a little everyday and hopefully that teacher will enrich you with the four paths of yoga - jnana (philosophy), Bhakti (yoga of heart), Raja (mind where the physical poses and meditation feature) and karma (service). Whether you’re drawn to one or a few of those aspects keep going. 

Yoga is a good friend on and off the mat and most of all, each person has the ‘vidya’ knowledge within themselves to follow their own wisdom. It’s inside you, you need the time to listen. You’ll see! 

6. What is your favourite quote or life motto?

“There’s always the right thing to do.” 

It’s something that came to me years ago and one that I stand by and offer to my family if they’re confused or unable to make a decision. It can be from a personal point of view, a situation that might be difficult or something bigger. Giving yourself a moment to reflect or more time to listen to yourself from head and heart means more often you’ll be guided to make the right decision/choice for yourself, family or situation. Everyone is on constant demand and quick answers can be rash. So wait and take the time to gather in and then you’ll know it’s the ‘right’ thing to do or say. 

 7. What’s coming up in 2024?

More fun, relaxing and cycling by the sea in Suffolk and visiting Mum in Bristol.  Travel to take in different cultures and sun. Closer to home the myriad of galleries, concerts (looking out for Jalen Ngonda) and theatre performances. 

Work wise my seasonal yoga workshops roll out. Charity fundraising events has a fire walk in the pipeline and personally more ice baths after diving in recently and experiencing the Wim Hof method!

Find out more about Sona:

Website: sonasharma.co.uk

Instagram: @omsonasharma