Meet Ellie Ritchie | Sala Studio, Auckland, NZ

Sala’s recent addition to the schedule is yoga teacher and Scotswoman, Ellie Ritchie. Full of sage advice is our Ellie, from where to begin if you’re new to yoga to what tune to blast when you’re in a funk - trust us it’ll get you up and moving!

Hey, who are you? What do you do and where do you live?

Hey, I’m Ellie! I teach yoga, breath work and meditation as well as work in social media. I currently live in Auckland but I am originally from Scotland.

Why and how did movement become such a big part of your life? 

Growing up I did a lot of dance and karate, the mix of creativity and discipline definitely had an impact on me as a person and for the sure lead into my yoga practice which sums up two of the main things I love about it. Movement is different things for me at different times, it’s what I need it to be, a beautiful form of escapism, a challenge, a chance to be present… anything!

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? 

My mum would tell me “no one is coming to save you”. At first, it felt harsh but, then actually as I got older I realised how empowering that was! Whilst feeling so loved and supported I was taught ownership. It was her way of saying ‘you are the creator and driver of your own life!’

She also said whatever you do, do it with confidence - another goodie.

How do you attain happiness in your life - whether through activity, achievements or mindset? 

Happiness for me is experiencing things and avoiding that feeling of what if. It’s a balance of striving for more and stopping to appreciate what I have right now. 

I think the key is to walk through life with an open heart. I know, it’s easier said than done but I’m just fuelled by wanting the full experience of life. There will be good and bad but if I follow my heart then whatever the outcome I’m left with an overall feeling of contentment because I did so. 

How do you motivate yourself to get moving when you’re low energy? 

Sometimes I just don’t. I’m more than happy to lean into rest if it’s what my body needs. For the days when I know it’s what I need will blast Chaka Khan's ‘I’m Every Woman’ and it works every time. 

What’s your advice to someone brand new to yoga who wants to get started? 

Try different types of classes, smile when you fall out of postures and remember why you wanted to start in the first place. Just try and have fun with it and take the first step. It’s confronting being a beginner but it’s also so humbling. Accepting that and rolling with it is a great first step in your yoga practice.