Teacher Spotlight: Nicola Copsey

The spotlight this month falls on Nicola Copsey who joined the HBY team in January. Nicola teaches at our London Bridge and Balham studios – although she’s occasionally been spotted at HBY Fulham, too!

What did you do before you qualified as a teacher?
Oh lots of things - though pretty much all media-related. I started off in corporate event production, then moved into web TV production. My last position was as a digital project manager.

So how did you get into Bikram?
It was mainly to lose weight. At the time I was four stone heavier than now and had tried everything: gym, diets and Weight Watchers. A friend suggested we give Bikram a go and I fell in love instantly. I gave up the gym to concentrate on it and less than 18 months later hit my target weight.

Also, I loved the challenge of Bikram. I found the heat really tough so I’d set myself small targets - just staying in the room to begin with! I realised I was looking forward to class more than to anything else in my week, so teaching seemed a natural progression.

What’s your favourite Bikram position?
I know everyone says this, but it really does change. At the moment it’s standing bow pulling pose and floor bow - I really enjoy the release of backwards bends. Plus the day I could first see my feet in the bow pose was very special – a real wow moment!

Top tip(s) to share with HBY students?
Retreats and challenges massively helped to further my practice and fuel my love. I’d recommend them to everyone. On the retreats, you really notice the difference two classes a day makes. Plus you benefit from hands-on corrections in posture clinics. Add to that you’re on holiday and hopefully relaxed which allows you to take your practice deeper. Oh and don’t forget there’s always a little pampering and some massages thrown in!

What do you find most satisfying in teaching?
As a teacher, you’re aware when students are struggling with a posture and you try to help them through it, so it’s great when they come up to you after class and thank you. It means you’ve done your job. It’s why I became a teacher – to pass on the benefits to others and to see them smiling again.

Which position do you find most difficult and how do you overcome it?
Standing head to knee pose. It involves a lot of strength and I’m still not there – it’s definitely a work in progress. But that’s what Bikram’s all about: it’s yoga practice not yoga perfect.