“When I reached my high peak of stress, I sought help to elevate my serotonin levels, and it was through the tried-and-tested Yoga that I found Nina Kabbany is anything but a corporate monkey,” Nina laughs.

Once upon a time, Nina’s entire life revolved around the corporate world she lived in. Totally in the zone, her marketing career came before personal improvement and growth outside the hyperbolic power-suit. One Yoga class later, Nina had made the decision to drop everything and take a leap of faith that landed her in Thailand. Far, far away from her position at a multinational corporation, she found herself in Yoga. Taking the only logical step, flash-forward to present day Nina Kabbani has assimilated into full Yogi mode as a full time Yoga instructor.

Having obtained her BA from Egypt in the late 00’s, she thought she had found her calling, and herself, in the work she was doing. Through Yoga, Namaste – peace – became her new motto. Being at peace with one’s self brings outer peace in all elements of life, not just the physical aspect. That’s what makes Yoga great. It’s suitable for everyone, and it trains the mind and soul, as well as the body. Her personal journey with meditation has led her to rediscover elements of herself that she thought she had lost during her corporate phase. Keeping that in mind and always remembering the hoops she had gone through, her true calling came in the form of teaching, not just practicing, Yoga. “I teach the importance of deep reflection combined with Asana to achieve a trance-like state of relaxation,” Nina elaborates, “In my life, Yoga has taught me to integrate Buddhist teachings such as detachment from materialism, concentration on the present, and acceptance of reality.” With those values, her teachings tackle the brilliantly renowned physical benefits and peace of mind and the self in Yoga.

“Yoga is the kind of workout that really isn’t a workout- it’s very ironic to come out of a session feelings both exhausted and relaxed; but that’s the mysticism of Yoga!” Nina exclaims. With more physical benefits than one can list, Yoga predominantly works the muscles in a way that eventually allows one to have more control over their body than they thought possible. Engaging the core muscles through stretching and the encouragement of flexibility, Yoga tones the body and builds strength. “I found Yoga to fulfill me in spiritual, intellectual, and physical levels because it is the link between the mind, the body, and the soul,” she smiles. Through her teachings, she hopes to share the glory of Yoga with those who are yet to find complete relaxation and it’s beauty. We play a fun game of truth or dare with this expert Yogi and fabulously bubbly relaxation guru – and her answers inspire us all.

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Mischievous.

How would you describe your mother in one word?

Home.

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?

Why are you so tall?!

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Jumped off a boat in the middle of the sea even though I had a fear of swimming in open water.

What is your theme song?

Dangerous – Michel Jackson.

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Kubba (Egyptian slang).

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

Capri, Italy.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

“The mind is everything. What you think you become” – Buddha.

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Definitely a horse.

What do you miss about your childhood?

The mind-blowing feeling when experiencing simple new things.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

Cleopatra.

How would you describe your handshake in one word?

Determined.

What is the toughest part of your character?

As stubborn as a mule!

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Ghandi.

What in the world do you least desire?

To desire something too much!

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?

Honest people.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

Because of my sense of humor.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”

Having a choice.

For more information on how to embark on your own Yoga journey, email Nina at nina_elkabbany@hotmail.com.