Member of the month: Natalie Luxford

1. Tell us a little bit about you - Where did your journey with yoga or Pilates begin — and what led you to it?

My journey with yoga began at about the age of 10, my mum had always practiced yoga and been to India a few times to visit ashrams and bought back some wisdom to share with the family. I started practicing yoga with my mum initially, and fell in love with both the physical and spiritual practice. I have always had a busy mind, interested in lots of different things and think deeply. While I love being this way, I can get swept away in thinking and the to do list. Pilates, Yoga and the philosophy behind them brings me back to the present, and makes me feel clearer and stronger physically and psychologically.

2. Do you remember your first class at Ritual? What were your hesitations (if any) before starting?

Initially, I had all the normal hesitations.. will I enjoy the classes, feel comfortable, will it be worthwhile. As soon as I attended my first classes, I found the answer was a big yes.

3. How do you feel after class — body, mind, breath?

Without fail, I walk out the door feel lighter, brighter, calm, more connected and uplifted. The shift in energy for me is a daily joy.

4. What’s the hardest part about getting to class — and how do you usually move past it?

Sometimes it's still cold and dark (being winter), which makes it harder to get up. I make it easy for myself by preparing clothes the night before, start with a big drink of water and nice coffee before heading to a class. I try to make the process joyful, even in those colder months.

5. What is the pace of your life like, how do you prioritise your time for class at Ritual?

The pace of my life is quite fast, I usually have a full schedule and lots of projects to work on. I prioritise class because it keeps me grounded, gives me time and space to tune in to my body and breath for the time dedicated to practice. This brings balance amid the pace of life, and brings grounding amid constant change - a gift that is underestimated.

6. How has your practice changed you — in subtle or obvious ways?

My consistent practice continues to bring growth, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Consistent practice builds my resilience, self-responsibility, and present moment awareness. While this might sound small, these are tools that keep me moving forward.. connecting with the community and my internal experience.

7. Is there a specific class, teacher, or moment at Ritual that’s stayed with you

I appreciate all the teachers, for their unique qualities and offerings. Pilates, yoga and Barre offer distinct benefits, and the variation keeps practice interesting and fresh. Yoga slows me down and reminds me I am safe, connected to something bigger than my individual experience. Pilates brings alignment and strength, and Barre brings bursts of fun and joy. Carby often repeats ‘I trust myself, I am safe’, bringing stability and calm.

8. Do you have a personal ritual before or after practice — or something you'd like to start doing?

My ritual starts when I wake. I drink some water, then a beautiful cup of coffee. I try to journal 3 pages, like a brain dump, it might be dreams, something I’ve learned or a situation that has inspired me. Then I will do a class & walk my dog as close as I can to sunrise with music in my ears. I come home, and then my working day starts with a sense of fulfillment..

9. What does “ritual” mean to you — in and beyond the studio?

Ritual to me means devotion and consistent commitment to alignment with self and values.

10. What do you turn to outside of the studio to stay well, strong, or balanced?

Commitment to a purposeful life through output, quality time with friends & family, laughter, learning, solo time, time with my dog in nature, writing.

11. If someone is feeling hesitant, unsure, or intimidated about coming in to practice at Ritual — what would you want them to know?

Progress not perfection. You can show up exactly as you are, you belong and you are welcome. Right here and right now. The first step is often the hardest, take small steps, little consistent commitments and the hesitance will dissipate. Worrying about the opinions of others or self-judgement takes our joy, don't give it energy. Showing up is where it starts.

12. Is there a life insight or piece of advice you’ve been given or experienced in your life — that stays with you?

Act the way you’d like to be, and soon you’ll be the way you act - Leonard Cohen