Student Spotlight: Courtney Drake

Student Spotlight: Courtney DrakeYoga Heights is made up of students who are fascinating people.  We are excited to introduce you to them one by one via the blog!Meet Courtney!Yoga Heights: Why do you practice yoga?Courtney: Body and mind! I spend a lot of time working at the computer and drawing. My body needs that kind of movement to counterbalance. As for mind, my brain feels like it's constantly racing. Yoga helps slow it down a bit. Through classes I've learned a lot of techniques but it's always a work in progress. YH: Tell us about your first experience at Yoga Heights.C: I was new to DC and planned to hit up all the new member specials in the area. I never made it past Yoga Heights. The studio was pretty young (I think only a couple months old?) but I could tell they were starting to grow a community beyond yoga and I wanted to be a part of it. YH: What classes do you go to at YH and why?C: I've had to scale back on the fast moving and more intensive classes since I developed arthritis. It can be painful and I can't keep up with the flow without compromising the architecture of the postures. I've been enjoying Back to Basics Flow with Juliana. It's a great way for me to check in with myself and her sequences are unique and interesting. No matter what I'm taking I try to be consistent with Yin! YH: What do you do when you're not on the mat?C:I love hiking with my husband and dog, Lunchbox. I'm probably too into bike commuting and I'm always looking out for good grilled cheese. Professionally I'm an architect and I also own a little studio where I make maps and illustrations.Website: www.lunchcitystudio.comInstagram:  @lunchcityYH: Where did you grow up?C: I grew up in Western Massachusetts near Amherst. I didn't appreciate the area until I left. I love going back. YH: What neighborhood do you live in now? People love to know about their neighbors!C: I live in Columbia Heights! My fav spots are The Coupe, District Dogs, Cava and obviously Yoga Heights!