Meet Amy Taylor

Fondly known as the 'Queen of AMP', let our resident Yogi at ESPA Life at Corinthia tell you about the benefits of yoga and why being inflexible shouldn't scare you

• Tell us about the exciting work you do with AMP.

It's been fantastic to be delivering yoga at Corinthia London for a little over 6 months to the wonderful members and guests. I also deliver yoga at AMP Marylebone and get involved in various projects in the local community. 

I am always out and about meeting local businesses and residents as part of my running membership at AMP Marylebone. I also take charge of all AMP events, interior design and general AMP’ing up!

• How long have you been practicing yoga and how did you get started?

I started practicing yoga in 2013. I was doing a lot of long distance running at the time and had super tight muscles. I hadn’t had any previous interest in attending yoga, I just thought, "OK, I'd better go stretch", but in the first class I went to it was like a light bulb moment - I just knew I had found something I love!

• Can anyone get involved or is yoga just for flexible people?

I get this type of comment so often - "I can’t go to yoga, I’m not flexible." In fact, this is exactly why you should go! When your muscles are tight, it limits how you are able to move which can lead to bad posture or even injuries. Yoga is a fantastic way to improve your flexibility and range of movement. Everyone can gain something from yoga and there is always a way to adapt the pose to suit you and your level.

• What advice would you give someone who has never tried yoga before?

Don’t feel intimidated or worry that you aren’t flexible enough. Yoga is about so much more than ‘being good’ at postures. As I said, yoga really is accessible to all as it can always be adapted.

• As well as being great for our physical health and strength, how else can we benefit from a regular yoga practice?

There is so much to be gained from learning about breathing techniques. We always focus on breathwork; it's a powerful way to help deal with stressful situations. 

Learning to switch off and focus on a yoga pose is also very powerful and helps us gain clarity in challenging situations. It prompts creativity and gives us a break from the day-to-day stresses of life. We are very fortunate at Corinthia London to have such an amazing yoga studio that can help people disconnect from stress and reconnect with themselves. And that's before you head down to the incredible spa!

• What’s something surprising about your work, that other people might not realise?

One of the most surprising things is the journey that people go on with yoga. They might start because someone mentioned it's good for flexibility or because they were dragged along by a friend, but the reasons people keep turning up every week and learn to immerse themselves in their yoga practice is always amazing to see. 

I also think it's one of those things that, no matter where you are, whether you're on holiday or travelling for work, you can head into a studio anywhere in the world and feel part of the community. I always make sure I try out studios wherever I go and always pick things up from any instructor. 

• What has been your proudest moment so far?

For me, my proudest moment was graduating from my Yoga Teacher Training in Goa, India. That month in India was the culmination of hours of practice and focusing on becoming an instructor. It felt very special to complete it and know I would then be able to spread that passion and love for yoga within my own classes.

• What’s your favourite thing about ESPA Life at Corinthia?

I find the space so calming and to be such an escape from city life. To know that you can head to a yoga class or a gym class and then escape and unwind in that incredible space is such a treat. You always leave feeling great!

• How can people join your classes at ESPA Life?

Guests can find out more information and book into our classes by visiting the ESPA Life website, calling the team on +44 (0) 20 7321 3050 or emailing espalife.london@corinthia.com.

I really look forward to meeting newcomers and having the chance to jump on the mat with you!