Where are you from originally? Rhode Island
How long have you lived in Chattanooga? Ten years
Tell us about your childhood: I had a wonderful childhood, and have an awesome family. My mom stayed home to raise my brother and I. I was obsessed with barbies until the age of thirteen. I had a black cat named Eightball (like in pool), and he was my best friend. I loved animals, playing outside, riding my bike and hated wearing dresses. I moved a lot growing up, and have lived in 6 different states. When I was in 8th grade, my family left everything we knew and moved to the south for my Dad’s job in downtown Chattanooga. My first day of high school, I didn’t know a single soul. It was definitely one of the toughest experiences of my childhood! But it shaped me into who I am today and I am so glad it happened. When life forces you to start from square one, you learn a lot about yourself. You develop courage, perseverance, learn how to build relationships, and learn so many other skills that are useful in life. Now, my family has moved back up north and I have been here for 10 years. 5 of those on my own. I have absolutely fallen in love with Chattanooga, the wonderful city that brought me to yoga!
Do you have a nick name? Brooke eventually evolves in to Brookie, and then usually Brookie B (my last name starts with a B)
When were you introduced to Yoga? I took my first yoga class in college about three years ago at my university’s gym. It was with an incredible instructor, and I was never the same. My body felt amazing, my heart was buzzing, and I new I had to have more!
How do yoga and the community play a role in your life? I have met the most genuine and kind people through the yoga community. People I have been searching for most of my life. If people could be homes, my home would be in yogis! Yoga, or connecting and aligning the mind, body and soul, plays the most important role in my life. The study of yoga has become a primary focus in my adult life. There is an unexplainable peace that comes with the practice and the lifestyle. There are so many different types of yoga, and each one serves as a remedy for the tribulations of human life. Yoga helps me cope with those tribulations, makes me feel alive, and brings me mental peace and realization.
What is your favorite quote? “The finest souls are those who gulped pain and avoided making others taste it.” – Nizariat