Stories From Our Community: Indira D, Runner
“No mud, no lotus.” That’s the motto of yogi, runner, and Alo Moves member Indira D (aka @fierceflower2015). And after working through a whole lot of mud — such as a life-altering car accident — she’s since gained a beautiful perspective that has allowed her to thrive and grow stronger on and off the mat. Read on to learn more about how yoga and movement has shaped Indira’s life.
When did you first begin practicing yoga, and what drew you to the practice?
I have always been active, and in 2000, I got hit by a car as a pedestrian. I suffered substantial injuries to my foot and ankle and spent the next 13 years between a wheelchair and crutches. When amputation got brought to table, I decided to try a more holistic approach. Biofeedback, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and a personal trainer were the magic combo.
In 2013, I started walking unassisted and ran my first half marathon in 2014. And that first Tough Mudder runner’s high...there is no feeling like it. I literally run for the runner’s high at the end. In 2017, I had a difficult leg fracture and could not run or do obstacle course training.
I started yoga as a way to pass the time while my leg healed, but I actually opened the door to self-awareness, breath, and peace. And just like many others, I had this misconception that yoga is just meditation and was blown away by the strength — mental and physical — that you can build through yoga practice .
What are your favorite styles of yoga, and do you have any favorite Alo Moves classes?
I like strength-based vinyasa classes. I love Patrick Beach and Dylan and Briohny. What I practice depends if it is pre- or post-run. I use yoga to lengthen and strengthen my body. One of my favourite classes on Alo Moves is Rise Up from MVMNT with MC YOGI .
How did you fall in love with hitting the pavement?
I love running. For me, running is meditation in motion. I start with heavy legs, a heavy heart (thanks COVID) and a load of stress on my mind. And with every step and every breath, I feel lighter. The more I focus on my breath, form, and cadence, the less of a burden and stress I carry.
Your Instagram bio says “no mud, no lotus.” What does that mean to you?
Sometimes the most amazing things come to be from very unfortunate events. If I did not have a really bad leg fracture, I would have never found yoga. There is ALWAYS a silver lining.
You also have a handsome practice partner: your Boxer pup, Max. If Max had the ability to do an Alo Moves class, which class would you recommend to him?
Ah, Sensei Max! I would recommend him Grateful Power Flow with Patrick Beach. I love the whole series.
You’re very active on the Alo Moves community platform (and have over 4,000 logged classes to date!). Can you talk about the connections you’ve made on the platform and what role the community plays in your daily practice?
As much as I love my running and yoga, sharing it with my #alofam gives it a golden glow. I have made friends with people I have never met and the strings that connect and bind us are all yoga and Alo. My Alo yogis are scattered across the globe like the stars in the night sky, each shining oh so bright.
What advice would you give someone who is approaching any movement practice as a beginner?
For my advice to any beginner, I would quote Dylan Werner: “Yoga is sensation, not a destination.” When it comes to flexibility, enjoy the process. And the strength part of yoga is consistency, consistency, consistency. Don’t give up.
Want to work more movement into your life? Access thousands of yoga, fitness, and meditation classes on Alo Moves today with a free 14-day trial.