Meet Your Teacher

Hello there! Thank you so much for taking the time to learn a bit more about me. I am so glad to have you here. My name is Shaina McParlon, I am based in Abbotsford, British Columbia. I run pre-registered vinyasa group classes, with the option to drop-in at Thrive Collective, Abbotsford. On a more personal note, I have a cat named Winston, who is a tuxedo ragdoll. I am a huge cat person and even have cork blocks for students with a cat meditating on them. I love iced coffee and especially love pumpkin spice. Hiking is something I do regularly, and I feel grateful to be able to push myself.

As a Yoga Teacher I believe that Yoga should be a welcoming space for all. It doesn't matter what path you are on, you are welcome to show up exactly as you are. Students should never feel like they have to “fit in” or look and act a certain way. I guide students in and out of poses in a safe, supportive way. Many variations of poses are offered so you can meet yourself where you are at that day. I have learned that consistency is key, I show up at the exact same times for the same classes week after week. In turn, you can show up knowing I will be there, ready to support you.

When I took my Yoga Teacher Training (2.5+years ago) I did not plan on teaching. However, I had no idea the effect yoga would have on my mental health. I realized this practice was so important as it allowed me to sit with my feelings, instead of running away. I would show up knowing that my classmates were expecting me. Knowing that my teacher was expecting me. This feeling of community was something I had searched so long for. When I taught my first ever class, I knew I had to keep sharing this practice with my community.

When I first started my yoga journey, I hated vinyasa yoga. I despised the faster pace and building heat through vigorous movement. I loved long holds and basically just laying there. However, I was doing myself a disservice. My mind craved slow movement, but my body truly needed fast movement. I have come to love vinyasa yoga, I get to explore advanced poses and see what I am capable of. The movement prepares my mind and body for stillness. I now teach vinyasa yoga on a weekly basis. I find it motivating to see everyone show up and move together. There is something so satisfying about seeing everyone move with their breath and take the option that serves them.

I have a variety of training and experience in my field of expertise. I took my 200 hour teacher training 3 years ago. Through Alexandria Waycott, I love her clear and direct cues, and I regularly take her weekly classes. The 200 hour training focused on vinyasa and heath yoga. Most recently, I went to Portugal for a 30 hour continuing education training, with Eva Maxine and Alexandria Waycott. I learnt Thai massage, myofascial release, and all about hands-on assists. I have completed a 16 hour Ayurvedic yoga teacher training with Jessica Burga and Alexandria Waycott. With Rafal Matuszewski, I took a 5 hour training on low back pain and assessments, which helped me to add in functional mobility in my classes. I also took a 5 hour training with Sydney Mayer on the business of yoga. On top of this training and continuing education I have taught over 800 hours of yoga in a variety of settings, with a variety of people.