Unplugging With Yoga Teacher Alissa Kepas

Get to know Alissa Kepas, a traveling and spirited yoga teacher; learn what brought her to yoga, her favorite poses to counteract daily routine activities, and how she disconnects in order to connect with her body and mind. 

“Being unplugged means not doing the norm or what’s expected, it is following the beat of your own heart into the wilderness of your soul. All of my best ideas come when I’m in Savasana, or Corpse Pose. I think this is because I’m completely relaxed and not plugged into how things are or should be. I recharge daily in yoga classes, weekly I reset by spending time outside, and monthly I renew myself by finding new adventures to try. Yoga is unplugging because you let go and bring your mind, body and soul together.”

Under the morning sky, Alissa taught an hour long yoga session to a group of FP Me women in the Moab desert. The practice focused on letting go… unplugging from the fast paced world around us and finding peace. It was a time to put down the phones and cameras and just breathe. We caught up with Alissa and got to know this gentle soul a little more. Read on below!

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Get the look: Mesh Well Cami, Delphine Bra, High Rise Legging

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Where did you grow up? What kind of kid were you?

I grew up mostly in Orem, Utah, but also spent some early years in Southern Arizona. We lived in a small town there called Rio Rico. I was an active and happy kid. I loved to use my imagination and play princess and fairies under our willow tree.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received growing up?

Material things can and will fade. Your connections and relationships can last forever — invest there. -Mom

How long have you been an instructor?

5 years

What prompted you to become a yoga instructor?

I actually decided to do my training right after the birth of my daughter. Physically it was the worst time for me to do it, because I was in the worst shape of my life after having a baby. Emotionally and spiritually it was the best time because it gave me confidence in myself and taught me to let go.

I was very much into yoga years ago but unfortunately somehow drifted away from it. What would you tell someone like me who has either drifted away from yoga or has never tried it?

The practice will show up in your life exactly when you need it.

What do you think is the best move for beginners? What about for people who sit at their computers all day? And for runners?

I think Sun Salutations are the best thing for beginners to build strength and flexibility. After sitting at a desk all day, Ustrasana or Camel Pose is a must to open the heart and move the spine. For runners, Gomukhasana or Cow-facing Pose stretches the glutes, hips, and IT band.

When do you know you need a yoga session?

I wake up knowing I need one, but I’ll catch an extra one when I’m feeling stressed.

What is your favorite after-yoga snack?

Avocado

What does your dream yoga space look like?

Clean and simple with high ceilings. The mountains by my home are my favorite place to practice.

What qualities do you look for in a yoga instructor?

Humble, kind, compassionate, and knowledgable/experienced.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Wild, enthusiastic, compassionate.

What is playing on your stereo right now?

Galantis, such happy dance music!

What does being “free” mean to you?

Being receptive to all of life’s experiences.

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Follow along with Alissa’s adventures on Instagram for some breathtaking yoga inspiration. Thank you Alissa!

Photos by Maria Camila

+ How do you daily, weekly, or monthly unplug?

Follow fp joanna on Instagram.

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8 years ago

Great photography! I love her teaching space so much. It’s a great way to be more in tune with nature.

8 years ago

I unplug in the same way, with my yoga and meditation practice.
This is a great and inspiring post for me as I move through my yoga teacher training. <3 Namaste

http://www.thatscoralynn.com