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MY JOURNEY TO YOGA RETREAT SPECIALIST PART 4: I’VE ARRIVED!

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Here we are – Yoga Retreat Specialist!

It has been a long journey from Hairdresser to Retreat Specialist. Honestly, I wouldn’t trade any of it. Life is a journey, and a big part of it is discovering what YOUR why is and how you can best support that.

I discovered early on, as a hairdresser, that my why involved helping people feel good in their own skin. How they looked, how they felt about themselves, and how those things influenced their confidence. As a hairdresser, it was about having a great hair day every day. When I became a Fitness Instructor, it was/is about feeling strong and being able to do the things you wanted to do in life, without your fitness holding you back.

As my executive career wound down, it felt natural to turn to yoga as the next evolution of my life and career. It feels like a true merging of that external and internal world, with a healthy dose of mental and emotional connection thrown into the mix.

Retreats vs. Studio

After a lot of thought – and a number of business plans later – I decided to focus my efforts on providing yoga and wellness retreats.

Studio

While I love the idea of opening a studio, there were too many cons on my pros/cons list.

  • If the pandemic response taught me anything, it’s that your physical location could be shut down at any time. While some landlords worked with their tenants, others did not. I saw more than a few friends and colleagues lose their life’s work (and savings!) and have no real recompense for it.
  • A studio for me would need to be multi-purpose. I would want several different studios under one roof and that means $$$! A tremendous amount of funding and business partnerships would need to take place. At this point in life, I wanted to do things my way, and not answer to anyone else apart from my clients and members
  • Part of my vision for the future involves travel! I want to see as much of the world as I can before I leave it. That is more challenging when you are anchored in one spot by a physical space

Retreat Specialist

On the other hand, running retreats and being a yoga & wellness retreat specialist, did not have the same issues.

  • Retreats can go where the open zones are! No closures other than travel restrictions. Since you are not running a retreat every weekend, the business impact would be far less should something like the pandemic occur again
  • Retreats can each be focused on my areas of passion:
    • serving interested and newer yogis, to give them a great start in their practice
    • supporting people dealing with stress, anxiety, and/or trauma
    • finding space in our lives to disconnect from our ever-present devices and screens
    • creating community in our increasingly isolated world
  • Adventure through Yoga!! Retreats allow us to experience the joys of travel. We get to immerse ourselves in our surroundings in a deep, mindful way. Combining adventure and wellness – what could be better?

Let the adventures begin!

I hope you have enjoyed this peek into my life and career. It has not been a straight line and certainly has not been without some major obstacles and setbacks.

Every step of the way, I have learned some valuable lessons. I have been refined, sometimes by fire, in my understanding of what makes me tick.

Understanding myself has led me to know how important it is to me to serve others. I’ve learned so many important business lessons along the way.

And I know that this is the path I want to continue on. Retirement is not the end; it is the beginning!! I still have lessons to learn, things to discover, and, I am sure, more refinements to make. Retreat Specialist is just the start.

But I know I am on the right path for me.

Want to come along for the ride?

P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍

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MY JOURNEY TO YOGA RETREAT SPECIALIST PART 3: YOGA

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Let the yoga begin!

Or not. My path to becoming a yoga teacher was not exactly paved with cushy yoga mats!

Fitness took me pretty far in life. If you read part 2 of my story, you know it got me through being a somewhat lost stay-at-home mom, through a rough divorce, and on to a real career in an industry I loved.

As my career progressed and led me to management roles in my company, it also brought me to becoming a yoga teacher. Sort of.

Yoga had begun to expand out of the studio environment and into mainstream big-box gyms, with increasing popularity. It was my job to decide what to put on all my gym schedules and I felt like it was important to really know what each class was about. The best way to explain something to someone else is to have done it yourself!

So I took classes.

Lots of them. I took classes with well-known very popular teachers. I took classes at my gym, at other gyms, at studios, and at industry conferences.

And I really hated it!

I felt like the classes went too fast. There was not much time to get into and out of each asana and then we were on to the next one.

I found it challenging because I didn’t know what the asanas were, especially since many of the teachers used the Sanskrit names for the poses and I had no idea what they were talking about.

There was also very little instruction on proper form and execution, allowing for some really atrocious postures. In my case, as a chronic migraine sufferer, this lack of information led to me coming away with a migraine almost every time I took a class!

I had given up on ever really enjoying yoga.

I’d basically written it off as one of those forms of movement that were just not for me.

Eventually, one of my colleagues and longtime friends in fitness invited me to come to her class. Doris Thews and I shared a lot of similarities in both our personal and professional lives. What I knew about Doris is that her background in teaching mirrored my own. If anyone could make yoga make sense to me, it would be her. What did I have to lose?

What I learned changed my mind about yoga forever.

The approach that Doris took in teaching the class was different than what I had experienced so far. She acknowledged that she wasn’t the most flexible person in the world, but that yoga didn’t care. She noted that some people may be more or less flexible than her and that was okay; each of us should work to our own ability.

As we dove into the class, Doris took time to explain how to move into, hold, and transition out of each asana. Suddenly I didn’t feel like my shoulders were up in my ears during every down dog! Her simple explanation of how to perform the movement (in English!) made all the difference in whether I got a migraine or not.

Having the right teacher makes all the difference.

After that experience, I began to get the yoga fever. Practicing yoga in a way that made sense to me made all the difference.

As a matter of fact, the whole reason I created the What Kind of Yogi Are YOU quiz was to help other people take a shortcut to finding that right fit. It’s not about what style of yoga might like. It’s all about finding a teacher with an approach to yoga that matches your vibe.

My next step was to learn more about it. I read up on it. I took more classes. Eventually, I decided to become a certified yoga teacher.

I even used it in coaching people to work through stress, anxiety, and trauma. One of the principles of yoga is service. If you want to know where you can best serve people, you look at your own wounds. Well, I had quite a background in divorce, parental alienation, and religious trauma. Yoga has helped me and helped me to support others in working through these issues.

Now we are up to speed!

Well, almost.

In the fourth and final part of this series, I will share how I went from a successful fitness executive to a yoga retreat specialist.

See you in part 4!

P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍

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MY JOURNEY TO YOGA RETREAT SPECIALIST

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AKA HOW DID I GET HERE?

I never imagined my life journey would bring me here!

Of all the things I dreamed of being as a kid, being a yoga retreat specialist never entered my mind.

In fact, having a real “career” never entered my mind beyond a daydream fantasy. You see, I grew up in a very religious family, one that truly believed that the world would end at any moment.

Anyyyyy minute now.

So the idea of going to college, of investing in your future in any real way, was really not allowed. I wanted to go college. I had the grades to go. But going would mean my family and my community would turn their backs on me and I would have to seriously rethink what I was continuously told was the “truth”.

So I had to come up with another way that I could earn a living, preferably something that would always be useful, even post-Armageddon. And just to make the journey more eventful, I was the type of person that wanted to actually enjoy my job and feel like I was doing something useful.

The thing that kept coming back to me as a teenager, was how great I felt when I was having a good hair day. I felt more confident, more like me, and I just felt good being in my own skin. That’s actually quite a feat for a teenager!

And so I became…a hairdresser

I mean, the training was relatively quick, and even post-apocalyptic people would want nice hair, right? It seemed perfect. It was the 80’s to boot, a glorious hair decade!

And for a while it was great. The thing is, no matter how amazing a cut I gave, how tight the perm, or even how accomplished my clients were at styling their hair at home, it didn’t last. Hair grows out. That “feeling great in your own skin” feeling was temporary at best.

The impermanence of what I was trying to accomplish in my chosen profession really got to me. Well, that and the laws that allowed smoking indoors. I somehow always had the chain smoker client that wanted a perm, cut, nails, facial – the works – so I was sitting in that toxic haze of smoke, chemicals, and humid air all day. Every day.

Additionally, the best time for clients was nights and weekends. As a newly married 19-year old, (yup, you read that right -19) I would have preferred to spend that time at home with my husband (at least at first. More on that in part 2).

I eventually grew to feel that this was no longer the right job for me. I loved it – but I wanted more. I wanted to help people on a deeper level.

It was time to take my journey in a new direction

But to what? My (now ex) husband wanted me to apply to work at a grocery store or be retail clerk. He didn’t like the idea of me actually enjoying what I did or understand my desire to do something that felt like I was impacting people on a personal level. He just wanted me to make money. I felt pretty stuck.

Stay tuned for part 2 to hear about the next part of my journey.

P.S. Let’s be besties!! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala to get the latest news and insider goodies 😍

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6 KEYS OF TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA

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Trauma-informed yoga is a specialized approach to yoga that considers the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals who have experienced trauma.

Each class or session is designed to create a safe and supportive environment for you and aims to avoid triggering any distressing experiences or emotions that may be associated with trauma.

What is Trauma?

Trauma refers to a distressing or disturbing event or series of events that overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope, leaving them feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and emotionally or physically harmed. Traumatic experiences can be of various types and intensity, and they may be physical, emotional, or psychological in nature.

Common Examples of Traumatic Events Include but are not limited to:

  1. Physical abuse or assault
  2. Emotional or psychological abuse
  3. Sexual abuse or assault
  4. Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods)
  5. Accidents (e.g., car crashes)
  6. Combat experiences (in military personnel)
  7. Witnessing violence or death
  8. Serious illnesses or medical procedures
  9. Loss of a loved one
  10. Bullying or harassment

These types of events can have profound and long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can disrupt normal coping mechanisms and lead to a range of emotional responses, such as fear, anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, or shame. Additionally, trauma can also impact memory, relationships, and overall functioning.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a recognized mental health condition that can develop following exposure to a traumatic event. However, not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD.

It’s important to understand that people respond differently to traumatic experiences, and what may be traumatic for one person may not be the same for another. Seeking professional help and support from mental health professionals is crucial for individuals dealing with the effects of trauma. Treatment options can include therapy, counseling, and, in some cases, medication to help manage symptoms and promote healing.

Key Principles of Trauma-Informed Yoga:

Safety and Choice: A Trauma-Informed Yoga teacher will create a safe and non-threatening environment. You are free to make choices throughout the practice, such as modifying poses or taking breaks as needed.

Empowerment: Participants will feel empowered! Teachers will give them a sense of control over their bodies and experiences. They use invitational language, allowing participants to explore sensations and movements at their own pace.

Awareness of Triggers: Your teacher will be aware of and avoid potential triggers and language or guiding practices that may be upsetting to you if you have a trauma background.

Body Awareness and Sensation: Connect with your body in a gentle and supportive manner. You will focus more on body awareness and sensation, rather than achieving specific poses.

Mindfulness and Breath: Mindfulness techniques and breathwork can help individuals regulate their nervous system and cope with stress and anxiety. This is a crucial part of trauma-informed practice.

Grounding and Centering: Teachers will guide you to feel more grounded and present in the moment. This might be especially helpful if you experience dissociation or feelings of being disconnected from your body.

Specialty Trained Teachers are a Must

Trauma-informed yoga teachers typically undergo specialized training to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of trauma on the body and mind. We approach students with sensitivity, compassion, and deep respect for each individual’s unique healing process.

It’s important to note that trauma-informed yoga is not meant to replace therapy or other trauma-focused treatments but can be used as a complementary practice to support healing and resilience. If someone has experienced trauma and is considering participating in a trauma-informed yoga class, it’s advisable to discuss it with a mental health professional to ensure it aligns with their specific needs and healing journey.

Want to Immerse Yourself?

A yoga retreat is just the thing to reboot yourself, mind, body, and soul. Not sure what to expect? Check out this article or visit our Retreat page!

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MAKE YOGA YOUR OWN

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Make Yoga Your Own!

Yoga is a transformative practice that has been embraced by millions around the world for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.

Diving into a yoga practice doesn’t have to be scary though! Although it has ancient roots, it continues to evolve as it finds its way into various cultures and communities.

There is something anyone and everyone, at any stage of life, can benefit from!

One of the most beautiful aspects of yoga is that it can be adapted to suit the unique needs, preferences, and goals of each practitioner. Let’s explore how you can make yoga your own and create a personalized practice that resonates with your individuality.

Discover Your Intention

The first step in making yoga your own is to identify your intention. Ask yourself why you want to start a practice and what you hope to achieve through it. Your intention could be anything from improving flexibility, reducing stress, finding inner peace, building strength, or enhancing mindfulness. Understanding your purpose will help you choose the right style of practice and guide you on your journey. Still not sure? Take this quiz to find out what your approach to yoga is.

Explore Different Yoga Styles

Yoga offers a diverse range of styles, each with its own unique approach and focus. Experiment with various styles, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Kundalini, or Restorative yoga. Attend different classes or explore online tutorials to experience the essence of each style. This exploration will help you discover which style aligns best with your intentions and resonates with your body and mind.

Listen to Your Body

Your body is unique, and your yoga practice should reflect that. Pay close attention to how your body responds to different poses and movements. Be mindful of your limitations, but also challenge yourself to grow. Modify poses as needed to suit your flexibility and strength levels, and don’t push yourself into discomfort or injury. Yoga is about embracing and celebrating your body’s capabilities rather than forcing it into unnatural shapes.

Create a Personal Space

Designate a special space for your practice. It doesn’t have to be large or elaborate; it can be a corner of your room or a spot in the park. Make this space inviting and inspiring by adding elements that resonate with you, such as candles, plants, or meaningful objects. Having a dedicated space will make your practice feel more personal and help you establish a consistent routine.

Embrace Mindfulness and Meditation

Yoga extends beyond the physical postures; it includes mindfulness and meditation practices as well. Embrace these aspects and incorporate them into your routine. Meditation can be as simple as focusing on your breath or practicing gratitude. These practices will deepen your connection to your practice and offer additional benefits for your mental well-being.

Use Props and Accessories

Yoga props, such as blocks, straps, bolsters, and blankets, can enhance your practice and make it more accessible. Props can help you maintain proper alignment, support your body in challenging poses, and deepen your stretches. Experiment with various props to find what works best for you and don’t hesitate to use them whenever needed.

Be Patient with Yourself

Remember that yoga is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself and avoid comparing your progress to others. Every individual’s journey is unique, and progress may be slow at times. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and acknowledge that setbacks are a natural part of growth.

Making yoga your own is a beautiful process of self-discovery and self-expression. By setting intentions, exploring different styles, listening to your body, creating a personal space, embracing mindfulness, using props, and practicing patience, you can craft a yoga practice that resonates with your individuality.

Remember that the most authentic and fulfilling yoga experience is the one that aligns with your heart and soul. Embrace the journey and let yoga enrich your life in ways beyond the physical realm.

Want to Immerse Yourself?

A yoga retreat is just the thing to reboot yourself, mind, body, and soul. Not sure what to expect? Check out this article or visit our retreat page!