It’s no secret that we’re true believers when it comes to all things yoga. Yogi Deborah Quibell is too, which is why we couldn’t be more excited to have her lead our upcoming 3 Days of Yoga Program. In this Q & A, Deborah shares what yoga means to her and some things you should know before you start a yoga routine.

Thanks for taking the time to talk with us, Deborah Our readers have been following your collaboration with Rituals for well over a year now. We’d like to know: what role does yoga play in your life?

Wow. That’s a big question. And not an easy one to answer. There are so many layers to the practice of yoga that I feel it has an ever-shifting role in my life.

I started a dedicated practice when I was in my early 20’s, and at that point it served a very different role than it does now. When I began, yoga was simply a way to unwind, to develop strength in my body and mind.

I still see it this way, but after diving deeper into the philosophy for over a decade, I have come to see yoga as a path to self-realization. I realize I risk losing you with that big spiritual term: self-realization. But I use this term in a very grounded and accessible way. It is simply a path to becoming more whole and happy. And not even by obtaining anything “extra,” but by stripping away what blocks us from seeing the truth and by making what is unconscious conscious.

So, I guess this practice of yoga currently serves a pretty important role in my life—it reminds me to keep working, internally and externally. Also, it makes me feel good. Sometimes, it’s that simple.

What benefits does yoga provide, both on a physical and emotional level?

Actually, on a physical and emotional level, yoga is all about creating balance for me. This is the power and beauty of this practice, but it also demands a whole heap of self-honesty (which is not always easy)!

Depending on what you need or where you have swung out of balance you can shift and adjust your practice.

For example, when I feel lethargic and lazy, a strengthening yoga practices provides me with a channel to move and feel motivated again. When I feel overexerted and drained, a gentle practice provides me the opportunity to replenish body and mind.

So, in order to really experience the benefits of yoga, start with a healthy dose of self-honesty. Ask yourself: what are my tendencies? How do I tend to swing out of balance? Your answers will become your road map to get the most out of your practice. And only you have those answers.

Is yoga something you can do anytime and anywhere?

The quick and easy answer is yes. But, I’m not sure that is completely true. In my experience over the years, I have found that having a regular yoga practice demands dedication and focus. We have to consciously create the space for it. We have to choose it, again and again, because there are a zillion temptations to lure us in other directions—all of which lead us away from the mat.

But the thing I always stress to students is that you don’t need 90 minutes in a fancy studio. Your practice can be shorter.

So, take advantage of whatever time you have. Let’s get real for a minute. Time is there when you create it and shift your priorities. We don’t try to do more than we really can do, but don’t let excuses take over. We get honest. And roll out the mat, whenever and wherever we can.

Time to roll out your mat

Inspired by Deborah’s candid take on yoga? Then participate in our 3 Days of Yoga program to help you jump-start your practice. Discover how yoga truly is for everybody – from beginners to yogis. And whether you’re just starting yoga, or you’ve gotten lost in your busy schedule and need to get reacquainted with your mat, these 3 days are meant to motivate and inspire you to do yoga.

Create your personal yoga routine together with Deborah and unite body, mind & soul. Sign up here!