We’re thrilled to welcome Kim Winn to Central West End Yoga!

Kim, a beloved yoga teacher in St. Louis for nearly 20 years, will be sharing her expertise with us every Thursday morning at 9AM. In this interview, we dive into her yoga journey, her approach to teaching, and the wisdom she brings to her practice.

Constance: Kim, are you comfortable sitting on the floor?

Kim: I hope so! 

Constance: Oh my god, I can’t believe I just asked a yoga teacher if she’s comfortable sitting on the floor. 

Kim: We kind of have to be, right?! 

Constance: Well, moving right along; I’m so excited to have you teaching here at Central West End Yoga! You’ve built quite a reputation in St. Louis as a yoga teacher. Can you tell us how long you’ve been teaching, and where it all began?

Kim: It’s been about 20 years, I think. Honestly, it started because I felt like I needed something for myself. I was married, had kids, but was searching for my own path. I was practicing at the YMCA, and my teacher, Maury Jackson, suggested I try teaching. That’s where it all began.

Constance: Wow, Maury Jackson! What a great teacher. Do you know if he’s still teaching?

Kim: I’m not sure, I haven’t seen him around in a while. 

Constance: Same. I lost track of a lot of people after 2020. So, tell me about your first teacher training experience. Did you train with Maury? 

Kim: No, my first training was with YogaFit, just a weekend certification. I was still new to yoga, maybe a year or two in, and it was a great introduction. I started teaching at the Y right after that, and eventually moved to Southtown Yoga, where I began taking my practice more seriously.

Constance: So, what happened after you got your certification?

Kim: I continued my education with a 300-hour yoga therapy certification, and over time, I found my style. Initially, I was more athletic and fast-paced, but as I grew, I slowed down and started integrating more mindfulness into my teaching. My classes are still strong, but now they’re more intentional.

Constance: It’s so interesting to look back and see the evolution in your teaching, isn’t it? You’ll be leading a Slow Flow class here at Central West End Yoga on Thursdays at 9 AM. For anyone unfamiliar with Slow Flow, can you clarify what it means?

Kim: Slow Flow is different depending on who’s teaching, but my Slow Flow isn’t necessarily easy—it’s about moving mindfully and staying present. When you slow down, you’re forced to be in the moment. It’s about focusing on the details; aligning body, breath, and mind.

Constance: Absolutely. And what’s your approach to hands-on adjustments? I know that’s something you’re passionate about.

Kim: I love giving hands-on adjustments. It’s one of my strengths. They help people deepen their practice, and they create a real connection. It’s not just about giving instructions—it’s about being present and guiding someone, and people really feeling cared for and seen in your class.

Constance: I totally agree, and with our smaller class sizes, it’s a great opportunity to offer more personalized attention. Maybe we could even host a hands-on adjustments workshop for teachers!

Kim: I’d love that! After COVID, we lost that touch, and I’m excited to bring it back.

Constance: I know you recently became a grandma—how does yoga play into your role as a mom and a grandma?

Kim: Yoga has made me more curious. It’s taught me to ask more questions and to approach life with an open mind. It keeps me humble and grounded. Like I don’t have all of the answers, and that’s okay. It’s something I hope to pass down to my grandchildren.

Constance: That’s such a beautiful gift to give them—showing them that learning never stops. Would you say curiosity is one of yoga’s biggest impacts on your life?

Kim: Definitely. I know it’s cliche, but yoga is a journey, not a destination. I try to stay curious, keep learning, and not be afraid to make mistakes. It’s all part of the practice.

Constance: I agree. Once you let go of the idea of a final destination, it’s easier to find peace and balance in life. So, what do you hope people take away from your classes?

Kim: I just want people to feel good about themselves and understand that their presence impacts others. It’s about being kind to ourselves first—when we are, we’re kinder to others.

Constance: That’s such an important message. For anyone feeling intimidated to start or return to yoga, what advice would you give?

Kim: You’ve got to start somewhere. It’s scary, but if you just show up, you’ve already conquered your fear. And remember, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about doing what you can. Just showing up and doing your best makes you stronger.

Constance: Such great advice. You also have a tagline on your Instagram handle that gratitude has changed your life. Can you share more about that?

Kim: Gratitude has truly changed my life. I start and end my day with it—just saying “thank you.” It shifts my mindset and energy. Even when others hurt you, gratitude helps you see the lesson and move inward. It’s about appreciating the small moments and the lessons that shape you.

Constance: I love that. Gratitude is such a powerful practice. Thanks for sharing that. It’s such a simple practice that anyone could adopt. Finally, what are your hopes for the future of your yoga journey?

Kim: I just want to continue learning and growing, both as a student and a teacher. I’m not sure what’s next, but I’m excited to see where the journey takes me. There’s always more to discover.

Constance: So true. We’re so lucky to have you here, Kim. Your presence is so grounding; you have a way of inviting the people around you to be present just through your energy. We can’t wait to see you contribute to our community.

Kim’s approach to yoga is a blend of strength, mindfulness, and curiosity. Join her for Slow Flow every Thursday at 9 AM and experience how yoga can transform not just your body, but your entire perspective on life.