AN INTERVIEW WITH
TINA JEFFERY
February 2025
How has living near the coast influenced your teaching and approach to yoga?
Living by the coast means you are open to the elements and you witness the spectacular forever changing landscape. From crystal clear calm waters one minute to the exhilarating energy of 15ft waves the next! You meet the elements in all their beauty. As humans, we are not separate from nature. We too are forever changing in our nature – too open to all the things life throws at us – and my teaching encourages you to look inwards at this so that you can adapt and grow. Nature is my biggest inspiration and I absolutely love living by the sea.
How do you define self-discovery, and why is it important in your practice?
For me self discovery is experiencing connection. When you discover your individual vibration through movement and meditation you start to feel the vibration of the world and how connected we all are. Not only to each other but also to the land and the sea. Connection is magic and helps us thrive with ease and grace.
Do you have a mantra or daily ritual that guides you?
My mantra and daily rituals change with the seasons. I’ve found Traditional Chinese Medicine’s approach to living in harmony with the seasons hugely beneficial to my wellbeing. Right now in January I choose slow, soothing yoga flows. Taking wisdom from the trees, flowers and animals that are in rest mode. I’ve found living in this way creates more harmony and flow in my life. I love that I can adapt my yoga and wellbeing practices to the seasons; life isn’t straightforward so it makes sense to move and look after yourself in different ways within the natural cycles of life.
What drew you to collaborating with Wanderlust Life?
As a Devon girl growing up in and around Exeter, I’ve always popped into the shop on the way to surf trips! It was the meaning behind each jewellery piece that really drew me to the brand. My Wanderlust life jewellery pieces really are emblems to me. They are personal reminders to me to keep on going through the hard times. To hold my values close to my heart so I don’t get lost and to motivate when I need a little push. My yoga practice and offerings are a living experience of these messages. So it was clear to me that together with our shared values of meaning, creativity and connection we can create super-special, loving retreat experiences for our communities. It’s going to be amazing!
“Connection is magic and helps us thrive with ease and grace.”
If you could describe your teaching style in three words, what would they be?
Safe, non judgemental and meaningful.
What’s a book, quote, or piece of advice that has profoundly influenced your journey?
“It’s impossible to be curious and judgemental at the same time.”
This quote is a biggie for me and I share it with my students a lot. I believe it’s important to see your life as an exploration and a conversation. It’s easy for the judgement and expectations we and society put on ourselves to creep in. Instead, see each day of your life as an art piece to be explored, crafted and celebrated. I've found life flows more beautifully this way.
What’s your go-to practice for when life feels overwhelming?
To the sea! Being in, on, and around the sea is my biggest comfort. The horizon humbles me and puts everything into a peaceful perspective.
What do you hope attendees will take away from the Wanderlust Life X Tina Jeffery retreats?
To feel inspired, nourished and supported in living their best life from both me and the gorgeous women-led Wanderlust Life team! I’m so excited!
“It's impossible to be curious and judgemental at the same time.”