Interview with Leah Martin
"I combine music and asana to find harmony and peace"
 

Leah Martin has gained tremendous popularity in India. By yoga.

Born and brought up in Hunstville, Alabama (USA) and raised in Alabama, Leah's whole life has been by her Mom, Linda, (who's a music teacher and conductor) and my Father, Darry, (who is a Doctor). She has a younger brother, Jay, who is a builder and working in Atlanta, Georgia. Leah moved to New York City in 2004 after her college graduation. Her interest in Music and recently in yoga has brought her much popularity worldwide. With yoga being much popular globally for mental, emotional and physical fitness, it was worth finding out more on the combination of music and yoga.

Leah talks about some of her passions:

When did your interest in Music arise and which albums have you released?

Music has always been a part of me. My Mother was learning Beethoven while I was in her womb, and my Mother and Father were in a play together when I was born! I was born into the theatre. Music, dance, and the arts have always been a very intricate part of my development. Everyone in my family has a deep love and appreciation for the arts. I have currently released my debut record, HOPE...Through The Looking Glass this summer. Before that I released a dance single. Currently, we are focused on MUSIC HEALS, a video being shot in Bombay to raise the awareness on adoption in India. 

What made you completely give up your modelling career?

I don't look at it as "giving up" anything... I only gained on my spiritual path. Modelling still found me in India, I am honoured to be the new Brand Ambassador for Hansiba. www.sewatfc.org which provides employment for thousands of poor Indian women who are victims of the earthquake, and flood. I'm honoured to be a part of such great work. Now, we are simply working for peace. My goal is to raise awareness through music and modelling these beautiful creations to bring humanity together. 

From music to yoga..what is the driving force?

The Universal force, God. I surrendered my life (which is the title of the first song on my record) to God completely about 1 1/2 years ago, and he directs every single step I take. 

What effect does music have on the mind?

Music transports you into the divine realm. Music like Bach, Shankar, or Jazz has been scientifically proven many times to heal plants and nourish growth. The same with us. Music, when used correctly, can be communication to the Gods, and angelic realm. Music can heal any emotional situation, and is a gift from God. Music Heals.

How have you combined yoga and music? What effect would you want your students to feel?

Music and Yoga go together for me. I have incorporated both into a lifestyle. If I can teach anything to my students, it is simply to breathe. I combine music and asana, along with pranayama to inspire each student to go deeper into themselves......to find harmony and peace. I teach and live, love and peace through music and yoga.

Did you do yoga training in India?

Yes. I gained my first hatha yoga certification from Sivananda Yoga Centre in Kerela, India. I also studied Core Strength, vinyasa yoga from Sadie Nardini in New York, NY. 

Where do you teach yoga classes and which age group is presently attending?

I taught in New York City at East West Yoga Studio, and have just completed a YOGA HEALS seven day workshop in Ahmedabad, India at Neha's Fitness Studio. All ages are welcome. I taught private lessons in New York as well that included gentle yoga for mature students, restoritive yoga, and intense yoga to more advanced yogis.

Your life mantra?

BE PRESENT.

Thank you so much.