Karon Shovers
My Philosophy
In a hurried world, where many of us have forgotten to breathe deeply and connect to our very own life force, yoga invites us to remember. It calls to us, whether we move with agile grace or slow humility, to begin just where we are at. By uniting breath with movement, we create a bridge between the mystical and mundane – which, if we are curious enough to cross, can lead us to a state of sweet remembrance.
My Story
For Karon Shovers, the invitation to embrace a yogic path appeared in an artful disguise. At the age of 23, she suffered from a stroke, which put a strain on both her physical and emotional well-being. Seeking a space to strengthen her body and sift through her emotions, she turned to yoga. It was there, in that humble place, that she was able to shift her perspective and cultivate a deeper sense of compassion for herself and for others. In addition, she developed a strong passion for working with those dealing with debilitating diseases, physical limitations, and injuries. Over the last 20 years, she has expanded upon this practice by studying with a wide range of well-respected yoga masters and teachers, going on herself to teach over 2,500 hours of classes and workshops.
Blessed with a yogic sensibility, Karon understands that in order to achieve true balance, we must not cling too tightly to rigid ways of being or let our wild energy run so rampant that we deplete ourselves. She believes in the power of yoga to hold a safe structured space that inspires us to embrace our expressive natures. As both a student and teacher, she encourages herself and others to seek balance both in and out of the classroom. She works to remind us that our practice does not end the moment we roll up our mat. Rather, it should flow into our daily rhythms, infusing our everyday activities with lessons of grace, mystery, and awe.
With deep awareness and artistry, Karon is able to create a unique learning environment for her students to explore yoga. Having a deep knowledge of human anatomy, she understands that proper alignment is essential to move responsibly in and out of poses. She recognizes that by showing our bodies this kind of respect, we create a solid structure to begin our practice. With gentleness and compassion, Karon guides her students to tune into their higher selves and bear witness to the divine within.
Corporate and Hospital Wellness
Karon creates personalized wellness programs for businesses and hospitals. She is currently teaching at New York Presbytarian Hospital with Maripossa Wellness in New York City.
Programs include:
Movement, Breathing Techniques, Stress Reduction, Posture Management, and Self-Care.
She has over 4,000 hours of experience working with individuals, and large and small groups.
What to Expect from a class with Karon
1. CENTERING at the beginning of each class to connect the practice to the higher purpose and to the Divine.
2. CULTIVATING certain virtues: from basic awareness, to specific virtues of studentship, forgiveness, compassion, right effort, steadfastness, groundedness (all – heart qualities).
3. CONNECTING every movement to the breath, understanding that the breath is a form of Divine Spirit.
4. UTILIZING alignment to provide a safe sequencing of asanas (postures) with a specific methodology in biomechanics and alignment.
5. RE-CENTERING at the end to recognize the Divine – in the practice and in ourselves.
When we set the intention to practice yoga, we peel away layers of armor that shield us from true connection. Yoga encourages us to strip down to that which is essential. Karon invites you to join her in this practice of intentionally shedding that which prevents us from revealing our true authentic nature.