Celebrating Self: A Yoga Story with Laura Schurlknight
In the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, yoga is more than a workout—it's a celebration of self. We sat down for a chat with Laura Schurlknight, an instructor with Bad Girls Yoga who transforms the traditional yoga experience into a journey of empowerment, connection, and pure joy.
Finding Purpose in the Practice
How did you come across the opportunity to teach with Bad Girls Yoga?
Following a hot vinyasa in downtown Charleston, Laura was approached by dear friends who recognized her passion in blending an outdoor element of intention and connection. "Once I connected with Gillian [the founder of Bad Girls Yoga]," she recalls, "I immediately recognized authenticity in balancing a physical practice while maintaining a light-hearted atmosphere!"
What does yoga mean to you? How has it impacted your life?
For Laura, yoga is more than just a physical practice. "It is a journey inward," she explains. "A journey bringing us back to the essence of our true selves; celebrating what is. In my story, yoga is the pivot for a new way of moving and being." She sees vinyasa as "placing yourself in a special way," an intention she carries both on and off the mat.
What makes you proud to be a Bad Girls Yoga instructor?
"Beyond my respect for Gillian," Laura reflects, "I am continually honored to be a part of a story that values celebrating big moments. Each time I connect with a group, I feel a sense of joy in sharing such profound milestones! My hope is that you always feel this intention in trusting me to move with you."
The Heart of Teaching
What inspires you to continue teaching yoga to others?
Her passion as an instructor resides in empowerment. "I'm drawing forth that which is already present within," Laura shares. "Reminding my students that the path of yoga connects us full circle to what is!" Her belief is simple yet profound: showing up in authenticity and love provides a space to be met with the same light.
Describe your class style.
Bad Girls Yoga has created space for play in her teaching. "My goal first and foremost is meeting my students where they are," she explains. Laura crafts an environment of comfortability; a safe space to connect, move, and celebrate. "Music is a key player," she adds with a smile, "and it's a vibe!"
Embracing the Practice
What's your favorite yoga pose, and what do you love about it?
Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana) holds a special place in her heart. "The element of expansion in this posture feels purposeful while rooting down in balance," Laura describes. "I love speaking to the choice we have in a peak posture to open our hearts. It's about grounding energy and expansive freedom."
Is there a common misconception about yoga you'd like to clear up?
"Yoga is personal," she emphasizes. "I believe fully there is a style in body that works for everyone willing to receive."
For Any Newcomers
What would you say to someone feeling nervous about trying yoga for the first time?
Her advice is wonderfully direct: "Do you have a body? Let's move!"
Your top tip for someone preparing for their first class?
“My top tip is showing up with an open heart," Laura says. "A willingness to share your energy with me. I'll meet you in return, every time, ten-fold."
Join Us and Let’s Celebrate You!
In a world that often demands conformity, Laura Schurlknight and Bad Girls Yoga offer something fresh: a practice that's simultaneously profound and playful, challenging and welcoming. It's not about striking the perfect pose—it's about discovering yourself, one breath at a time. To learn more about Bad Girls Yoga, such as our famous Namaste then Rosé class, get in touch by filling out our form. We’d love to be part of your yoga story!
