This is part of our Meet Our Visiting Instructor Series where you get to read about some of the visiting teachers and educators to our studio.
Meet Michelle Lyons, a chartered physiotherapist who specialises in
integrative Women’s Health and pelvic health.
Michelle provides regular continuing education and workshops in our studio here in Dublin.
What have you been up to recently?
After a busy year teaching all over the world, from Connecticut to California to Capetown, I’m enjoying some down time with friends and family and writing new women’s health courses for next year. I can’t help it – I’m passionate about women’s health!!
How long have you been a movement teacher / educator and what inspired you to become one??
As a physiotherapist, I have 25 years of clinical experience and my toolbox includes not only orthopaedic and pelvic health expertise but also a strong interest in Oncology rehab, using manual therapy, exercise prescription (yoga, Pilates, strength training, holistic core restore programming) as well as integrative nutrition and mindbody medicine. I lecture and teach nationally, internationally and online at a post graduate and post doctoral level – I’m all about spreading the word about good pelvic health!
What are your top three tips for clients and students to start a movement practice?
As Pema Chodron, the beloved Tibetan Buddhist teacher writes ‘start where you are’ and be kind to yourself when starting any new practice – I always recommend starting with the breath – it’s the foundation for good pelvic health.
What are your top three tips for clients and students to stay motivated and consistent with their movement practice?
Ask yourself why you have this practice – is it to control or punish your body, or is it a form of self care and living well. Do it first thing in the morning – I find if I put it off….it doesn’t get done, so now my morning movement is non negotiable!
Describe your teaching style in less than ten words.
Hopefully informative, evidence based, thought provoking and most importantly FUN!
Where are your three favourite places in the world?
My bed. I travel so much for work that my own bed is one of my favourite places to be – it’s where I sleep best. The other top two would have to be Inchydoney beach or Paris…sigh!
What are the top three things on your bucket list?
To finish my book! I’ve been writing in dribs and drabs for ages but I just need to put it all together…soon!!!
Tell us about someone who inspires you
It’s almost a cliche, but the Dalai Lama. He’s done so much good in the world, brought Buddhism and neuroscience into the same conversation and when asked, he says ‘My religion is kindness’ and we could all do with a world with more kindness.
When you’re not teaching what do you do for kicks?
I am a book fiend!! When I’m not reading, I’m happiest book shopping, preferably treasure hunting in a second hand bookshop but I’m not averse to a bit of instant gratification on Amazon! I love my Kindle for flying – undisturbed reading time is bliss for me!
Tell us one last thing we might not know about you
Cooking is my stress reliever – I probably have as many cookbooks as anatomy books…and that’s saying something!!
Michelle is back with us in Dublin in 2018 for two workshops, so far!
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