In this exclusive MysticMag interview with Amy Miller, founder of Amy Miller Yoga & Wellbeing, she shares her journey and expertise in offering unique yoga classes, moon circles she organizes, conducting soul-nourishing cacao ceremonies, and organizing rejuvenating retreats. Amy also provides insightful tips and advice for individuals looking to improve their overall wellbeing.
Can you please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us a bit about your professional journey?
Hello! My name is Amy Miller and I am the founder of Amy Miller Yoga + Wellbeing. I have been practicing yoga for 25 years and am qualified to teach in 2015. Since then I have done lots of other trainings in practices that have helped my class students and when working privately, for example, Thai Yoga Massage, Face Yoga, Tarot, and Ayurveda. I have also completed a Yale
University course focusing on the science of wellbeing, creating my own pillars of wellbeing to help people on their journey. I am also a practicing witch and specialise in teaching people how to live in alignment with the natural cycles of the planet and their own bodies in order to live a happy and healthy life filled with pleasure and free from burnout.
What different Yoga classes do you offer?
My style is a unique mix of Hatha Yoga and Vinyasa. I take the flowing aspect of Vinyasa and slow it down to create something more mindful. The practice is strong and dynamic and there is always a ‘why’ to each class. Why are we doing what we are doing? The theme of the classes changes every week, with some flows that are repeated each time. That way there is always
something new to learn but everyone can build and develop their practice in a meaningful way. I teach in alignment with the seasons and so the energy of the Earth and the cycles of the moon often inspire the theme of the class.
What are Full Moon Circles and New Moon Nurture and are they exclusively for women?
The Full Moon Circle was something I started just as we were coming out of lockdown. I was creating a moon ritual for myself at home and as we were allowed to come together again I wanted to see if I could share the experience with others and build a community. It was obviously something that people were interested in exploring as I had 25 people at that first circle!
It was initially open to men and women but in communication with those in attendance we decided to keep it to women only – but that is fluid! During the circle, I lead people in seasonal yoga, meditation, and ritual, which changes depending on the time of year and the focus of the circle. The New Moon Nurture is definitely for women only. This is more like a traditional women’s circle where I am just the facilitator. I do lead people in meditation and intention-setting rituals for the new moon, but then the circle is opened up so that we can all share our stories. The idea is to be given a safe space to be vulnerable and honest without the fear of judgment, being interrupted, or offered unsolicited advice. My intention with both the Full Moon Circle and the New Moon Nurture is to leave people feeling relaxed, nourished, and focused on their own personal goals.
How does Cacao Ceremony work?
During the cacao ceremonies, I lead people in meditation in order to get them into an open and receptive headspace. After which the beautiful plant medicine cacao is shared out and we mindfully drink together, asking the cacao for any wisdom that she has to share with us. Everyone then lies down and gets comfortable as music is played and we let our thoughts drift and see if any guidance is offered up. After I have brought people round, everyone is then invited to share their experience. This is open to men and women and is a beautiful experience in the cosy womb-like space of the yurt.
What can people expect from Surrey and Spanish retreats?
Our Surrey retreats are one day long and change depending on the season. As I teach very much aligned with the energy of the sun, each retreat will offer something different depending on the time of year. For example, during the winter retreat, we do lots of slow restorative yoga, and I bring a meditation teacher with me for extra quiet time. During the summer retreat, I have my personal trainer with me, and the focus is on high-energy movement and harnessing our inner strength. The Spanish retreat is a mix of everything! There are yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions, outdoor saunas, a swimming pool, and plenty of delicious Spanish food and wine!
Do you have any advice or quick tips for people looking to improve their overall wellbeing?
Yes, I have plenty! I always advise people who are just starting their wellbeing journey to focus on my 4 pillars of health. These are:
1 – Nutrition and movement;
2 – Sleep & rest;
3 – Meditation & breath work;
4 – Spirituality and connection.
All of these have scientific backing that proves their efficacy in improving people’s health and happiness. Creating a simple list of daily rituals that incorporate something from all of these pillars is an easy place to start and won’t take lots of time.
