Fields of Yogis, coming Aug. 23-25, aims to help yoga be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical shape or condition, spirituality, or experience level. Cassandra Justine is a practitioner based in Chicago who combines Reiki, sound healing, yoga and meditation. She fielded questions from Assistant Editor Cheryl Weatherford. This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
What is a book that deeply influenced your practice and life’s work?
“You Can Heal Your Life” by Louise Hay. The way that she speaks to the power of positive affirmations has helped me move through challenging times. Inspired by her work and how it has supported my healing path, I guide others through meditations utilizing positive affirmations and often use positive affirmations throughout my classes and workshops.
Where is your most optimal place to practice and/or teach yoga?
Self-practice is my sanctuary. There is nothing like some ‘me’ time in my sacred space. My all -time favorite space to teach in is hands down Mar de Jade in Chacala, Mexico. I’ve led retreats there, and nothing compares to their breath-giving studio views.
Where are you teaching next?
I will be teaching at two yoga festivals this Summer: Barefoot and Free Yoga Festival Aug. 16-18 and am honored to be teaching at Fields of Yogis for my fourth year Aug. 23-25. I’m also excited to announce that I will be directing a 200 hr. Yoga & Wholistic Arts Teacher Training program at Heat Yoga in North Liberty starting in the fall! Text code “CHOOSEJOY’ to 42828 to join our mailing list for more details!
What other ways do you enjoy feeding your creativity or many facets?
My soul craves adventure and inspiration. Nature is my temple. I love spending time outdoors – hiking, swimming, bike rides, walks, you name it. I also love modern dance and aerial yoga. Any way I can move my body and explore more feeds my creativity.
Cassandra Justine teaches at Fields of Yogis, Aug. 23-25, at 1:30 p.m. Friday, 2 and 5:40 p.m. Saturday, and 10:30 a.m. Sunday. To enjoy more content associated with this story, please see our feature on how “yoga is for everyone,” and our peek at the “All Bodies Belong” photo collection by Sarah Driscoll and Heidi Eiffert.
