It’s a sunny day on the corner of Santa Monica and 2nd street. My hair is still a bit sweaty as I gather my post yoga brain and grab a seat outside Power Yoga. Across from me, is perhaps one of the most A-typical “Yogis” I know. With a Southern drawl, militant stare, devilish grin and biceps, that I’m pretty sure have their own Instagram account, Rudy Mettia, is not exactly the visual that comes to mind when someone mentions the word “Yogi”. However, year after year he is voted one of the best instructors around, and rightfully so! Rudy has a beautiful way of blending his extensive knowledge of biomechanics and asana with practical application and soulful insight into every class he teaches. Rudy will challenge your physical limits, but he’ll have you laughing so much you won’t care. I am honored to call Rudy my mentor and friend and excited to share with you Rudy Mettia’s (and my first!) Balanced Beauty Interview!
What does “Balanced Beauty” mean to you?
R: “Balanced Beauty is when there is an internal and external acceptance of reality. In other words when you look at yourself in the mirror you don’t go, “Who the fuck is that!?” (Maybe I should mention now, that another reason I love Rudy is he calls it like it is!)
If you knew you were going to be stranded on a desert island, what three “beauty” (grooming) products couldn’t you live without?
R: “Soap, toothpaste and clippers…I like to keep my shit tidy.”
What are 5 words you would tell your 9 year old self?
R: “It’s going to be okay.” He pauses for a moment and then continues, “I was orphaned at 9 years old and looking back it was as if I was experiencing Samadhi, if you will, where my mind detached from my body, but in reality I was in shock.”
What is your favorite way to work out?
R: “Intensely” (I can vouch for that!)
What is your favorite treat to indulge in?
R: “Ice Cream”
Favorite pastime when you fly on a plane?
R: “Read.” Rudy is currently reading, “Extreme Ownership” by Navy Seals Jocko Willink and Leif Babin.
One thing I have not done that I would like to try is…
I have to interject here…when asked this question Rudy had no immediate answer…which, is not surprising! His life has been quite colorful and soon we can all read more about him in his book, “Yoga Warrior”, From Orphan & Marine, Bouncer & Biker, Bodybuilder & Spiritualist out in May! Later, when I realized he had not answered this question I tried again, and this is what he said.
R: “Dirt Biking, I’ve never taken a motorcycle off road.” (Go figure.)
If you looked in my glove compartment you would find…
R: “Nothing, I keep my car clean and my guns at home.” (I’m quite sure he is serious)
When do you feel most “Balanced”?
R: “When I am alone.”
When do you feel most “Beautiful”?
R: “When I am healthy.”
Looking back on when I first met Rudy, I remember he talked a lot about finding the “Shri” or beauty in your yoga practice. Shri is not only a physical beauty, but a full expression of the self. Coming from a muscle bound dude, one might find the topic of “balanced beauty” a bit ironic, but after one of Rudy’s yoga classes, a big bear hug and kiss of southern charm, you can’t help but feel a bit more balanced and beautiful!
Thanks Rudy for taking the time to discuss your thoughts on “Balanced Beauty” with me!
In Gratitude,
Alison Burmeister
For
Balanced Beauty
Comments