Yoga instructor Roxanne Gan shares how yoga grounds her & what it can do for you
The certified physical trainer shares how you can kickstart a wellness routine and why you should be open-minded about trying new experiences.
Striking a balance in life may be as simple as carving out time regularly to indulge in an activity of your choice. Yahoo Shopping chats with personalities who share their passion for a sport or wellness activity they enjoy, which helps them take on the world with zeal. This monthly series will inspire you to find an interest that will add that sparkle to your life.
Roxanne Gan is a renowned Yoga Instructor, Certified Personal Trainer and TV host who is also a mom to Mila, her 20-month-old daughter. Besides being featured in Shape Magazine as Shape Fit Girl 2018, Roxanne is also recognised as a Wellness/yoga icon in Honeycombers Singapore Local Legend. You can connect with Roxanne as she shares Yoga, Fitness and Motherhood tips on her Instagram account.
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Yahoo Life Singapore: What is one sport, fitness or wellness activity you love, and how did you get started?
Roxanne Gan: Yoga, without a single doubt. It started at University when my relationship ended, and I needed an activity to keep me preoccupied with the negativity in life. My mom was the one who brought me to my first Yoga class, and I remember being so carefree for that entire 60 minutes.
Try Yoga, Sound bath & Meditation
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What are its benefits, and what do you love about it?
The regular Yoga routine slowly changed my life; I enjoy the movement, my body and breath awareness, and being more mindful of my thoughts and emotions. Over the years, I became a lot more confident as my strength and flexibility improved. That proved that consistency and hard work would pay off and that nothing is impossible if I put my mind to it.
How often do you indulge in it, and with whom?
In recent years, I favour Yin Yoga a lot more. I do a few simple stretches every day without fail (which I also share on my Instagram page and How to Practice Yoga ebook) to relieve stiffness. When I was pregnant with Mila, I would sit down with my husband to meditate for a calmer mind and prepare for childbirth.
What's your biggest sacrifice to be where you are now?
I used to run a Yoga studio but had to close it down for several reasons. I always think about the ways and things I could have done to salvage it, but I have no regrets. I learned much about running a business and, most importantly, about myself. And if I ever own a business again, I know I will have more confidence to do it.
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Have you regretted a decision, envied your peers, or felt let down at any point in your life?
Honestly, not at all. I always believe that things happen for a reason!
Having someone you know who can be there for you is crucial to your emotional and mental health.Roxanne Gan credits her husband for being her pillar of strength
Was there any point you wanted to give up? Why? How did you bounce back?
Of course! Especially with my relationships, business and motherhood because it is never easy. It requires a lot of hard work, sweat and blood; if things don't go how I want them to, it can be demoralising and depressing. Since I met my husband, I have been grateful to him for being my pillar of support; I communicate my thoughts and feelings to him, and he is a great listener and gives good advice. Having someone you know who can be there for you is crucial to your emotional and mental health.
What gear or attire do you need or wear when engaging in the sport or wellness activity?
1. Comfortable and great quality activewear
Alo Yoga Vapor Splendor Gingham Bra
Available in 2 colours
2. Appropriate shoes for running, HIIT and Crossfit
adidas Dropset Trainer Shoes
3. My Apple Watch
Apple Watch Ultra (GPS + Cellular, 49mm) Smartwatch
Fitness Tracker, Precision GPS, Action Button, Extra-Long Battery Life, Brighter Retina Display
4. A big water bottle for hydration
Hydro Flask Water Bottle, Wide Mouth Straw Lid 2 - 40 oz
Available in 12 colours
5. Sunscreen for outdoor activity for UV protection
[Torriden Official] DIVE IN Mild Sunblock, SPF 50+ PA++++, 60ml
Mineral Mild Sunscreen for Natural Tone up, Perfect UV Protection
Shop quality activewear sale: Alo Yoga | Sweaty Betty| Lululemon
Shop top workout shoes: Nike | Adidas | Asics
Shop top fitness watch: Apple | Garmin | Fitbit
Shop top water bottles: Camelbak | Klean Kanteen | Hydro Flask
Shop tried-and-tested sunscreen: Supergoop | d program by Shiseido | Isntree
Please share one thing you learnt from this sport or what you wish others to discover.
An activity or sport might look intimidating before you try it, but if you pick the right level, be it beginner or introduction classes, coupled with a really good instructor, you will probably return for another class. So before deciding something isn't suitable for you, keep an open mind and try it!
Be open to new experiences, and cultivate a curiosity and resilient mindset.Roxanne Gan
As a well-known figure, how do you inject positivity into the public?
I often openly share my struggles and am glad many can relate. I'm human, and life can sometimes be a roller coaster ride, but I'm not embarrassed or ashamed of my struggles. I practice gratitude and engage in activities and exercises that help increase endorphins. As much as I'm struggling, I share how I take time and effort to care for my emotional and mental health.
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Could you share with us your life philosophy/insight that you have gained thanks to the said sports/wellness activity?
My Yoga and CrossFit journey taught me valuable life lessons beyond the mat and box. Here’s what I learnt.
Discipline and hard work: This philosophy translates into life by teaching the importance of setting goals, staying committed, and working diligently to achieve them. They have shown me that success comes through hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
Resilience and overcoming challenges: In sports, setbacks and failures are inevitable. Athletes learn to bounce back from defeats, adapt to new situations, and overcome obstacles. This philosophy applies to life, teaching us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, to develop resilience in the face of adversity, and to persevere despite setbacks.
What advice would you give those who want to kickstart the same sports/wellness activity?
If you're an introvert or shy person, get a friend to sign up. Having a buddy always makes things less uncomfortable and more fun!
Is there a maxim/saying you live by?
Embrace the journey. Appreciate and live in the present moment. Living in the present moment reminds me to savour the small moments of joy, be open to new experiences, and cultivate a curiosity and resilience mindset.
What do you love most about yourself?
My strength and resilience in overcoming personal challenges, handling difficult situations, and staying determined during tough times.
Appreciate and live in the present moment.Roxanne Gan
What is your self-care routine like?
I take morning walks with Mila and schedule my favourite fitness classes like CrossFit and Calisthenics once a week because exercise always rejuvenates my mind and body. Sometimes I'll pamper myself with a massage, but that is a luxury. I feel relaxed and calm as long as I'm with mother nature, in a park or at a beach.
Bodyweight Training & Calisthenics: The Progressive Bodyweight Workout Book For Beginners & Beyond
(Home Workout & Weight Loss Success)
Wellness Me-Time at St. Gregory, PARKROYAL on Beach Road
Top massages in Singapore
Is there anything else you would like to share with Yahoo readers?
If you ever would like to try Yoga, CrossFit or Calisthenics, get in touch with me!
Roxanne will conduct classes during the three-week-long Wellness Festival, from 17 June to 9 July, which features over 180 diverse and holistic wellness activities and experiences in Singapore.
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