19/05/2026
I signed up for a 9 day 70 hour advanced YTT, I knew it would be intense but did not realize the impact it would have upon me.
Lead by Ana Forrest & Jose Calarco and supported by 4 Forest Guardians. Ana has been teaching since 1974, what a fierce woman! Jose joined her in 2014. Together they created Ceremony and Yoga.
Day one, I remembered what it was like to be a true student again, not understanding the sequence, able to experience the release of expectations and be utterly present. Forrest Yoga is definitely a different type of yoga. Reiterating yoga does not have to be a specific way. However, I wish that parts of this type of yoga was found in every class.
It’s no secret I was born differently, and I never let my differences get in my way. One of my passions is hands on adjustments. I know- if done properly- how supported and seen you can make a person feel. I struggle with placing my hands on others at times, because I don’t know if they would want to accept a “different touch”.
In the past, I have attended classes and trainings, and have felt unseen. Maybe people being polite and not wanting to address my hands, or maybe not knowing how to. When you live differently, sometimes, it’s ok and a relief for someone to address your differences. Especially while in a learning environment, knowing what you are taught and how you learn affects others.
Ceremony, which included smoke blessings, music, dance and heated classes were held from 8-12 each day. I experienced the most loving and direct hands on adjustments by Ana and the Forrest Guardians. Adjusting not only my back and shoulders, but even my hands, stretching each one my fingers, wrists, which opened parts of me that had been ignored for so long.
In the afternoon from 2-5:30, more classes, lectures, and more adjustments.
We were placed with different partners each time. I received REAL feedback of my touch. I was able to adjust my hands to find the way to support others. It wasn’t a polite ‘oh that’s fine.’ It was a firm, acknowledgement by Ana, ‘you are different, you are missing fingers, find a way,’ and she guided me.
This training was exhausting, but so worth it. My practice became stronger. I experienced sequencing and poses that were unique. I went vegan and alcohol free for 10 days. Ok honestly, had to eat cheese by day 3. But hung in there with vegetarianism and no alcohol. Seeds were planted that will grow and flourish.
I return a new “Forrest Inspired” teacher, I have courage to go upside down more often and assist others with this. I have gained more knowledge to add to my YTT trainings, and intend to perform more healing hands on assists. As always, I will continue to provide classes where students feel seen and safe.
Much gratitude to the whole Forrest team. I am grateful for each one of my partners who accepted my touch and gave me true feedback . Loved meeting the above group of folks, thank you for sharing your stories and this space of growth. Thanks to my daughter who let me bunk up with her in London, and my husband who encourages me to continue to grow everyday.
