Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started?

Like many, I grew up practicing different sports such as swimming, volleyball, and even underwater rugby. But when work and life took over, taking care of myself fell lower on my list of priorities. I tried different types of yoga but never found one that truly fit me. In 2015, I discovered Forrest Yoga, and everything clicked. It wasn’t just about exercise — it was about healing the body, mind, and spirit. For the first time, I found a yoga practice where I felt truly accepted, regardless of body type. The supportive community, the adaptability, and the deeper connection to the self, made me want to learn more. After years of practicing, I felt ready to hold space for others, so I pursued teacher training. Along the way, I also discovered Yoga Nidra and Bodywork, which became essential parts of my journey.

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How did you come to work as a professional in your specific practice? What inspired you? 

Beyond my personal transformation, I was deeply inspired by the sense of connection within Forrest Yoga. My teachers, especially the Forrest Yoga Guardians, showed me how yoga could be a tool for healing and empowerment. Their guidance, combined with my own experiences, made me realize that I wanted to help others find strength in their bodies and minds.

What has been, and still is, your intention and motivation for doing the work you’re doing?

My main motivation is to create an inclusive space where students with different bodies, experiences, injuries, and health conditions can come together and practice yoga. I want everyone to feel welcome and capable, no matter their limitations. There is always an option for every pose, and no one should feel excluded from movement and self-care.
I am also deeply motivated by witnessing my students' growth, not just physically but in their confidence, resilience, and sense of community. Seeing people come into class feeling uncertain and leave feeling empowered is what keeps me inspired every day.

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‍Can you explain your specific practice to someone who is completely new to it?

Forrest Yoga, created by Ana T. Forrest, is a dynamic and physical yoga practice that integrates breathwork, core strengthening, and mindful movement. Each class is structured around an intent, allowing students to explore physical and emotional aspects of their practice. The practice is particularly beneficial for modern-day issues like neck, shoulder, hip, and back pain, as well as conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. It encourages students to work with their bodies rather than against them, adapting poses as needed using props such as blocks, straps, rolls, chairs, and walls. Instead of seeing injuries or physical limitations as obstacles, Forrest Yoga asks, “What part of this can I do?”, a philosophy that makes it accessible to all.

In addition to Forrest Yoga, I also incorporate Yoga Nidra, often referred to as “yogic sleep,” which is a deeply relaxing guided meditation practice. It helps students achieve a state of deep rest and mental clarity. I also practice Bodywork, which involves hands-on techniques to adjust and support the body’s alignment, helping release tension and improve posture.

Credit: Forrest yoga Galery

If you could describe your practice in a few words, what would they be?

Healing, injury recovery, injury prevention, stress relief, community.

‍What piece of advice would you give to someone looking to be more conscious about their practice and life? 

You are the most important person in your life. Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of others effectively. It’s like the airplane safety instructions: “Put your oxygen mask on first before assisting others.”  When you nurture your body and mind, everything else falls into place.

‍What piece of advice would you give to your younger self or the younger generation? 

Don’t forget yourself. You are enough exactly as you are, no matter what others say. Trust your journey, embrace your body, and know that self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.‍

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Do you have any stories you could share about realizing the impact of your work on your daily life?

Since beginning my Forrest Yoga journey, I’ve felt a profound shift in both my body and mind. The stress I once carried has eased, and the chronic shoulder pain that used to weigh me down is now gone, unless I neglect my practice for too long. More importantly, I’ve learned to accept my injuries, seeing them not as limitations but as something I can work with, rather than fight against. Yoga has taught me resilience, self-compassion, and the power of listening to my body.

What's your most memorable experience with a client or participant?

I had a student with one arm and witnessing his progress and adaptability has been incredible. His feedback on how Forrest Yoga has improved his health reminds me why I do this work. It’s moments like these that reinforce the power of inclusivity in yoga, there is always a way to move, grow, and heal, no matter the circumstances.

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Highlights from Eva-Marie’s story

A Journey Back to Herself: After years of prioritizing work over self-care, yoga became the path to reclaiming balance, strength, and inner peace.

Finding True Belonging: Traditional yoga felt limiting — Forrest Yoga welcomed her fully, embracing all bodies, experiences, and challenges.

Beyond Movement: Through Forrest Yoga, Bodywork, Yoga Nidra, and Breathwork, she helps others heal, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.

A Mission of Inclusivity: Her work creates a space where everyone, regardless of ability or past injuries, can move, grow, and feel at home in their body.

Get in Touch:

With a deep passion for inclusive and healing practices, Eva-Marie blends Forrest Yoga, Yoga Nidra, and Bodywork to create a space where everyone, regardless of body type, injuries, or experience — can feel empowered.
Explore her diverse range of classes and sessions here at Soulcircus!