Featured Alumni: Mini Kim
1. How has your understanding of yoga evolved since you first started practicing?
When I first started practicing yoga about 20 years ago, I saw it purely as a form of exercise—something that could help me lose weight, get fit, and become more flexible. However, when I began practicing with various teachers at Sonic Yoga 10 years ago, they helped me realize that yoga is more than just exercise—it is a way of life. Yoga is the union of breath, body, and mind, the very essence of life itself. In the moments when I practice, I am fully present with myself, experiencing a deep sense of joy and freedom.
2. How has yoga influenced your personal life?Yoga has profoundly influenced my life, helping me break the self-imposed limits that once held me back. Through physical practice, I discovered my flexibility and learned to overcome fear, especially through inversions. Yoga gave me the confidence to start ballet at 30 and ultimately pursue a career in acting. More importantly, it has taught me openness—to embrace different people and situations with an open heart. I continue to meet incredible individuals regardless of age and navigate challenges with greater grace and resilience. To this day, yoga continues to guide me in discovering my true self.
3. What are the key lessons you learned during your teacher training?
During my teacher training, I discovered that yoga helps me stay true to myself in this chaotic world. I learned that while we are all different, we are also deeply connected. I also realized that simply breathing and being present in practice can lead to discoveries far beyond the physical postures. Delving deeper into yoga and its rich history provides valuable guidance for life. Whenever I feel down, I realize it’s often because I’ve stopped practicing. My training taught me to always return to the fundamentals—breath and movement.
