Hi Edna, how did you came to live in Castlemaine?
I was born in Tiberius Israel in 1953. My parents were European refugees – they were holocaust survivors. We moved to Australia when I was five years old. I’ve lived mostly in Melbourne, then Northern New South Wales. We’ve lived in Castlemaine since 1990. When living in Melbourne we decided to move somewhere out of the city. Fortunately our friends Neil and Heather Barrett convinced us to move to Castlemaine.
You run Over the Moon Yoga and Dance Studios – how did you first become involved in dance?
I was always attracted to dance and drama but soon realised that nonverbal physical expression was more mysterious and therefore compelling. It’s what I continue to find attractive. I’ve been teaching since 1976. I’ve been quite obsessed with teaching dance for most of my adult life. The combination of art and education is endlessly inspiring. I also started creating and publishing yoga resources for kids and young people in 2007. We use them literally every day in classes at the studio.
Has travel been a part of your life? Where have you been?
I’ve travelled a bit because my family is spread out around the world. We’ve travelled to Ireland a few times because my husband’s family is there. I’ve travelled to Europe, Israel, South America, and the US because of my own family connections.
What other interests do you have?
Keeping the organisational aspects of Over the Moon humming smoothly and providing inspiring yoga and dance education occupies most of my time. I love it! When I’m not doing that, I enjoy reading, listening to podcasts, bushwalking, and gazing adoringly at our grandchild for leisure. Spending time with family and friends. Being aware of social and political trends is important to me.
What are you reading at the moment?
The Colony by Audrey Magee
What’s your favorite genre of music?
I listen to a lot of music but probably mostly classical. Within the classical genre, I probably listen mostly to Baroque. Sometimes I go wild and listen to a Tchaikovsky Concerto very loudly. When I have to force myself to do domestic chores I listen to music I listened to when I was a teenager. Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Nina Simone etc. I have no idea why but it seems to relieve the boredom of sweeping a floor.
Who are your three dream dinner guests?
Apart from the gorgeous people that I have dinner with every night, I’d like to share a meal with Stan Grant (a journalist of steadfast integrity, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (a wonderful author), and Frances Ring (choreographer for Bangarra).
What philosophies do you live life by?
I’m not sure that I have a stated philosophy as such. At nearly 70 years of age, I’m still trying to figure it out. I try to live with integrity and do my best. I try to be aware. I practice yoga because it connects me to a strong sense of gratitude for life. I dance because it connects me to beauty.
Finally, what do you love most about the place you call home?
Family, community and nature are what provide the most joy. We have a number of favourite walks around Mount Alexander Shire. I feel lucky to be surrounded by nature. Because we’ve lived here for so many years, we have witnessed big life events supporting and being supported by friends. In my work, I have been so fortunate to observe many young people evolve from very early childhood to adulthood. It’s an honour. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.