I’m thrilled to introduce you to a Dark Heart local and very special human, Angie Katz of Sacred Devotion. She is a yoga and meditation teacher, holistic yoga therapist, retreat facilitator, and powerful ceremonialist.
I’ve had the honor of being Ange’s student since 2019, and every offering of hers- from weekly yoga classes and weekend goddess and meditation workshops, to divine fusions of cacao, reiki, and sound healings- have invited incredible support, guidance, and transformation.
When did you start teaching yoga? What inspired you to become a yoga teacher?
I began teaching Yoga in 2012. I had been practicing Yoga since 1999 and always knew I wanted to teach at some point. When my son was born, he ignited a light within me that wanted to live out of my heart. At the time, I worked in advertising as a senior producer and it no longer aligned to who I was. Teaching Yoga was a call that had been ringing for a long time, and I finally had the courage to answer it.
How has yoga changed your life?
The best way to describe it is when I first stepped on the mat, it was like stepping home. It's a familiar practice for me and has opened up so many doors, books, communities, teachings, healings, and most of all, my head and heart. I have healed so much on my magical mat. It's my medicine. I don't know what I would have done without it. I've been through a divorce and the loss of my mom, and my practice has been one of my biggest allies.
What do you enjoy most when leading yoga teacher training and retreats?
Watching the community form and grow. It's the most magical experience watching a community come together. Throughout the training and retreats, the community begins to create support, connections, friendships, and a lifetime of memories.
What is your best advice for new yoga teachers?
Your daily practice (Sadhana) is the most important part of your teaching. Make sure you fill your cup before you fill others. You'll find so many of your teachings will be birthed from your own meditation cushion and yoga mat. My second piece of advice would be teach, teach, teach, get out there and sub, and teach community classes. The more you teach the more you'll begin to craft your style and become comfortable teaching.
What is your best advice for someone wanting to try yoga for the first time?
What is next for you, in yoga and in your healing practices?
Simplify. I lost my mom a year ago and life has been really busy these days as my son has become a teenager and is a four season athlete. Losing my mom has reminded me to slow down and enjoy every moment. Being a mom is my number one, and I want to be there to cheer him on and support him in every way possible. I will continue to lead Yoga classes, trainings, and retreats, but I'm really trying to slow down and simplify so I can take in every moment and honor the sacred within this beautiful life.
What (or where or who, or all) has recently inspired you and why?
Wow, so many people, experiences, and places have inspired me.
- India. Traveling to India opened up my entire heart and brought gifts to me that continue to flourish in my everyday life. I've traveled there 5 times and plan to go back soon. It's one of the most inspiring places I've traveled to.
- Gaz Oakley. He's currently been inspiring me as I watch his YouTube channel. He's a homesteader and chef in the UK and reminds me to keep listening to the voice of my heart.
- Authors such as Mark Nepo, Nischala Joy Devi, Bhavani Maki, Katherine Skaggs, Tokopa Turner, and Pixie Lighthorse. The love, study, and joy these authors have put into their books inspires me to continue to keep my eye on my goals, honor where I am, and keep writing as I hope to finish my book someday.
Outside of teaching, guiding, and supporting others, what are you up to? What fills your cup?
Hanging out in nature and studying herbalism and shamanism - trying to understand the roots of humanity. I recently took a 16 day solo trip to Scotland to dive deeper into my ancestry. I learned so much about my heritage and the ancient lands of Scotland. I continue to study and integrate what I experienced, and I feel I've opened a whole new book to study and understand.
What do you typically order at Dark Heart?
A half caff Not So Basic Latte with house-made nut milk.
What do you love about Dark Heart?
I love the community they've created, the coffee is amazing, and the staff is always friendly. It feels like I'm walking into a friend's home.
Where can your fellow Dark Heart lovers flow, learn, and heal with you?
I am based at Community Yoga for my weekly classes, trainings, workshops, and sound baths. I teach Wednesdays 6pm, Thursdays 9:15am, and Fridays at 10am. You can keep updated on my retreats on my website or on Instagram at @angiekkatz.
-
