Becoming a yoga teacher has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. What started as a personal practice evolved into a passion for sharing the wisdom and benefits of yoga with others. In this blog, I would like to share my journey, the challenges I faced, and the profound lessons I learned along the way.
Finding My Way to Yoga:
My journey began 24 years ago when I was seeking relief from changes in my life. Moving from Puerto Rico with 2 kids to Wa State was a huge change, not only for me but also for Yomalix and Joshua. A friend suggested I try a yoga class, and from the moment I stepped onto the mat, I felt an immediate connection. I honestly did not know what is was, however, I started to feel a sense of peace within the chaos of divorce, new home, new schools, new language, new people and beginning of everything I did not expected to happen in our lives. The combination of breath, movement, and mindfulness resonated deeply within me. With each class, I discovered a sense of peace and clarity that I had been missing. The teachers at the Valley Athletic Club in Olympia, were nice and kind, they encourage me to dive more and perhaps teach.
Deepening My Practice:
As my love for yoga grew, I took their advice and I started teaching Yoga. Everything else begin to fall in place in ways I never imagine. I became more curious about its philosophy and teachings, that I decide to go to India and truly explore the heart of Yoga, Rishikesh. I began reading books, attending workshops, and exploring different styles of yoga. This exploration opened my eyes to the rich history and depth of yoga beyond physical postures. I realized that yoga is not just about flexibility or strength; it’s a holistic practice that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit, a practice that open not only possibilities, but also it mold me to be the person I was meant to be.
The Decision to Teach:
After just 2 years years of practicing, I felt a calling to share what I had learned with others. I decided to enroll in a teacher training program, which was both exhilarating and daunting. The training challenged me to deepen my understanding of yoga, improve my teaching skills, and confront my insecurities. I experienced moments of self-doubt but also profound breakthroughs that transformed my perspective and as I gained confidence, I began to see the impact of my teaching on my students. Witnessing their growth, transformations, and moments of joy fueled my passion even more. I focused on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone felt safe to explore their practice. Building a community of like-minded individuals became one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.
Continuous Learning and Growth:
As a yoga teacher, I realized that my journey is ongoing. I’ve continued to study various styles, attend workshops, and learn from other teachers. Each new experience enriches my practice and teaching, allowing me to offer fresh insights and perspectives to my students. I believe that being a teacher means being a lifelong student.
Embracing Challenges:
In 2023 I open Yoga Om Wellness Studio, has not been without its challenges. There have been moments of self-doubt, however, these experiences have taught me resilience and adaptability. I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally.
My journey as a yoga teacher and owner of Yoga Om has been a beautiful exploration of self-discovery, connection, and transformation. Through the practice of yoga, I’ve learned to cultivate compassion, mindfulness, and gratitude in my life. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my students and to witness their growth and transformations. As I continue to evolve as a teacher, and studio owner, I remain committed to fostering a supportive community and safe place where everyone can experience the profound benefits of yoga.
Each day on this journey is a reminder of the power of yoga to heal, inspire, and connect us all. I look forward to what lies ahead and the many more lives we will touch together on this incredible path.
Namaste!