SCOUT INSTRUCTOR SERIES - Meet Vicki!
VICKI SMART
Age: 43
Star sign: Virgo
How long have you been teaching yoga? For 13 years.
How did you first get into yoga? I fell into it by accident in London over 20 years ago when my regular spinning class was full and here we are today!
What's your favourite yoga pose? I couldn’t possibly distill to just one! Don’t make me! It depends on the day and what I’m craving, but either Twisted Monkey or Hanumanasana are always on the playlist. As a dancer I’m always partial to a split!
What's your favourite thing about teaching at Scout Pilates? I love the energy and diversity of the student base! Everyone always brings their brightest energy to flow and works so hard on their mats. Scout also has a great bhav (which can mean a sentiment or emotion of something) and the bhav is strong with us!
Enough yoga chat, what in your life gives you the most energy? Some folks may be surprised that I’m actually an introvert. I recharge when I’m on my own so energy replenishment is so important for me! Meditation, a walk around Sydney park or a snuggle with my cat can rejuvenate me hugely, but also being active is a huge part of my energy management. A good practice or gym sesh rarely disappoints.
Tell us your favourite place to eat in the inner west and what you order there? Ooooo loads of epic places come to mind! My partner and I have a few places on rotation (Casa Mia Osteria, Russo and Russo) but my favourite has to be Kafenes Greek restaurant in Enmore Road. I grew up in Greece and their Gemista (stuffed peppers) are delicious.
What advice would you give to your 15-year-old self? Put down the tweezers girl, those eyebrows aren’t going to grow back.
Last great book that you read? I am a massive nerd, the last book I read (and still refer to) was / is Accessing the healing power of the vagus nerve by Stanley Rosenberg. It’s a great reference point for a trauma-informed approach.
If you could travel ANYWHERE tomorrow, where would you go? The island I grew up on, Samos in Greece hands down.
What goal are you hoping to achieve by the end of the year? I’ve already nailed one of them by giving up coffee (one month down!) but for me as a teacher it’s always about growth, so I’ll be seeking out some more training! I’m also working on some overhead PB’s in the gym, watch this space for a 50kg clean squat and press! Big dreams for a small human!