Downward dog to elevate spirits

Engler bends over backwards to promote physical and mental health in her veterinary clinic. Image courtesy of Annette Engler.Hospital administrator Annette Engler started taking yoga classes as a natural way to ease her chronic neck and back pain-a common problem for animal health professionals-but she found the classes did so much more. “I realized yoga was helping me sleep better, focus better and be more compassionate towards my team and my clients,” Engler said.

Engler knew that many of her team members struggled with the same pains and stresses she was experiencing and wanted to do something about it. So she did.

Engler became certified as a yoga instructor and set up free weekly yoga classes for her team. “My goal is to provide a judgment-free zone where each student practices within their own ability,” Engler said. “It's been a great way to encourage my team to take care of themselves and has allowed me to bond with my employees on a deeper level.”

Annette Engler is administrator at Union Lake Veterinary Hospital in Waterford Township, Michigan.