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TRAVEL: NEXT LEVEL PERSONAL GROWTH

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I love to travel!

Having just returned from a weeklong trip to London, I am still buzzing with the fun and excitement of a great experience.

The history, the cultural similarities and differences, even the public transportation!

I learned a lot, not just about England but about myself as well. Talk about getting back to your core self and beliefs!

While England may not be a huge cultural shift from the U.S., it is still fascinating to note how my perspectives on some things are so informed by my country.

The complete disregard for crosswalk signs took me aback! Being there during the Presidential Inauguration, I was surprised at how deeply interested and informed the Brits – including many who were transplants from other countries – were about what was going on. I don’t think we reciprocate that broader worldview much, at least not on a large scale.

I was truly impressed by the public transportation system, the efficiency of customs, and the friendly and polite but reserved nature of the people. The introvert in me LOVED not having to smile and say hello to every. single. stranger. I passed.

I spent much of my time diving into history and doing all I could to experience the country. While I love to shop in general, I am not a big shopper while visiting other countries. First of all, I have to carry it all back! Secondly, I can shop anywhere. Other than a few unique to London baubles, my primary focus was expanding my perspectives on the world.

Travel is a transformative experience

Beyond the allure of exotic destinations and breathtaking scenery, travel offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. In the fast-paced lives of modern professionals balancing careers, family, and personal aspirations, travel can serve as a powerful reset button, providing clarity and inspiration for life’s next chapter.

The Connection Between Travel and Personal Growth

Personal growth is a lifelong journey. It requires stepping out of comfort zones, embracing new experiences, and challenging preconceived notions. Travel inherently facilitates this process. Whether navigating unfamiliar streets in a foreign city, engaging with people from diverse cultures, or experiencing awe-inspiring natural wonders, travel exposes us to situations that expand our horizons and deepen our understanding of the world and ourselves.

As we age, the need for continued personal growth becomes even more critical. Studies indicate that staying mentally and emotionally engaged in new experiences contributes to better overall well-being.

According to the Global Coalition on Aging, older adults who engage in regular travel report improved physical and cognitive health.

Travel isn’t just a luxury; it’s a vital component of maintaining vitality and curiosity.

Why Travel Matters for Personal Transformation

1. Expanding Perspectives: Travel pushes us to see the world through a different lens. Meeting people with different traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles fosters empathy and reduces biases. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that exposure to diverse cultures enhances creativity and problem-solving skills. This expanded perspective can positively influence both personal and professional relationships.

2. Boosting Emotional Resilience: Travel often comes with unexpected challenges—a missed flight, a language barrier, or navigating unfamiliar systems. Overcoming these hurdles builds emotional resilience and problem-solving abilities. These lessons translate into greater confidence and adaptability in daily life.

3. Reigniting Creativity: Exploring new destinations sparks creativity. Immersing in vibrant markets, historical landmarks, or serene landscapes stimulates the senses and provides a fresh source of inspiration. A study by INSEAD researchers found that individuals who lived abroad displayed higher levels of creative thinking, suggesting that even short-term travel can have a lasting impact on our ability to innovate.

Travel by the Numbers: A Powerful Tool for Personal Growth

Statistics reinforce the benefits of travel. According to the U.S. Travel Association:

  • 86% of travelers say that travel improves their mood and outlook.
  • 61% feel that travel has a lasting positive impact on their productivity and energy levels.
  • 89% of leisure travelers cite travel as a source of relaxation, inspiration, and renewed purpose.

Additionally, research from AARP found that individuals aged 50 and older who prioritize travel often report a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment compared to their peers who travel less frequently. Travel helps people reconnect with themselves, rediscover passions, and envision new goals.

The Role of Travel in Aging Gracefully

As we age, maintaining a growth mindset becomes increasingly important. Neuroscience shows that the brain thrives on novelty and challenge, and travel offers both. Exploring new destinations stimulates neural pathways, keeping the brain sharp and engaged.

Incorporating travel into a wellness routine can also improve mental and emotional health.

Studies show that planning and anticipating a trip can boost happiness and reduce stress. Upon returning, the memories and insights gained from travel can continue to uplift and motivate.

Tips for Transformative Travel Experiences

To fully harness the growth potential of travel, consider these strategies:

1. Set Intentions: Before embarking on your journey, reflect on what you hope to gain. Are you seeking inspiration, relaxation, or connection? Having a clear intention can help shape a more meaningful experience.

2. Embrace Uncertainty: Allow room for spontaneity. Some of the most transformative travel moments come from unplanned encounters and experiences.

3. Prioritize Wellness: Incorporate activities like yoga, meditation, or journaling during your travels. These practices can deepen your connection to the experience and foster introspection.

4. Seek Cultural Immersion: Engage with locals, try regional cuisines, and participate in traditional activities. These authentic interactions create lasting memories and enrich your understanding of the destination.

5. Reflect and Integrate: After returning home, take time to reflect on your journey. What did you learn about yourself? How can you integrate these lessons into your daily life?

Travel as an Investment in Yourself

In a world that often prioritizes productivity over presence, travel reminds us of the value of slowing down, exploring, and reconnecting. It’s an investment in personal growth that pays dividends long after the suitcase is unpacked.

Whether it’s a solo retreat in a tranquil setting, a cultural immersion in a bustling city, or a nature-based adventure, travel has the power to transform. It’s not just about discovering new places; it’s about rediscovering who you are and who you aspire to be.

So, where will your next journey take you? The world is waiting, and so is the next chapter of your growth.

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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WELLNESS DEFINED

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What Does Wellness Actually Mean?

Wellness or well-being can mean many different things to many different people.

To some, it’s about hitting the gym every day. To others, it’s ensuring a balanced diet or carving out time for family and friends.

And for some, it might be as simple as having a good night’s sleep or enjoying a weekend hiking trip.

But what does it really mean to be well? With so many opinions and definitions, it can be a daunting task to figure out how to prioritize our well-being. While some definitions can overlap, it’s essential to understand that each facet of wellness plays a crucial role in our overall health.

To give you a clearer picture, let’s explore different interpretations of wellness and then introduce our holistic approach that might just resonate with you.

A More Grounded Approach to Wellness

If you’ve spent years working on your fitness or just generally leaned on movement and nutrition to stay “well,” you’re not alone. For a long time, that was my definition too. But wellness isn’t just about reps and macros—it’s about how you think, how you connect, and how you show up in the world.

At LAYLO wellness, we focus on three areas: mental wellness, physical wellness, and social wellness. When these are in sync, you move through life with more clarity, resilience, and ease—even when things get messy.

Here’s how we break it down:

BODY: Physical Wellness

These pillars center on the body—how you care for it, fuel it, and use it to support your full life.

  • Physical Wellness
    Movement, nourishment, and rest. Not to check a box, but to support the energy and strength you need to work, travel, parent, and reset.
  • Occupational Wellness
    Your work should sustain you, not drain you. This is about feeling purposeful and aligned in what you do, whether you’re building a business, staying in your role, or navigating a shift.
  • Environmental Wellness
    Your surroundings affect your energy more than you think. Clean, calm, functional spaces—at home or in nature—create a foundation that supports focus and ease.

MIND: Mental Wellness

These pillars support clarity, boundaries, mindset, and the ability to stay present—even when everything’s demanding your attention at once.

  • Mental Wellness
    Mindset hygiene matters. That means resilience, stress management, and learning how to self-regulate under pressure.
  • Emotional Wellness
    Knowing what you feel, why you feel it, and how to respond (not react) creates stability in both your personal and professional relationships.
  • Intellectual Wellness
    You’re not done growing. Challenging your thinking, learning something new, or being creatively stimulated keeps your brain sharp and your sense of self evolving.

SOUL: Social + Emotional Wellness

This is where connection, values, and purpose live. And for women like us—balancing aging parents, adult kids, career moves, and life transitions—this part is often the most neglected.

  • Social Wellness
    Friendships. Community. Support. You need people in your corner—people who see you, challenge you, and keep you grounded.
  • Spiritual Wellness
    Whether you pray, meditate, or just walk outside to breathe, this is about staying connected to meaning and purpose beyond the to-do list.
  • Financial Wellness
    Not just numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s about feeling safe and clear. Knowing what’s coming in, what’s going out, and that you’re prepared—so you can actually exhale.

While each of these areas of wellness is important, it’s crucial to remember that they are interconnected. There is overlap. Focusing too much on one area at the expense of others can lead to imbalances and negative consequences.

For example, neglecting physical health while focusing on financial wellness might lead to stress, fatigue, and illness. On the other hand, prioritizing physical health without considering mental or emotional well-being might lead to burnout and decreased productivity.

Benefits of a Holistic Approach

Taking a holistic approach to well-being can provide numerous benefits. By addressing all areas of your well-being, you can achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.

You’ll be better equipped to handle stress, improve your relationships, and find satisfaction in your work and personal life. Plus, taking care of your overall well-being can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Start Your Journey to Wellness Today

Ready to take the first step towards a more balanced and fulfilling life?

Start by assessing your current well-being in each of these areas. Identify areas where you might need to focus more attention and take small steps towards improvement.

Whether it’s setting aside time for self-care, seeking out new learning opportunities, or building stronger relationships, every step you take towards wellness can have a positive impact on your life.

Well-being is a journey, not a destination. It’s about making conscious choices to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. So, embrace the journey, take care of yourself, and enjoy the benefits of a balanced and holistic approach to your well-being.

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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5 LIFE LESSONS I LEARNED FROM MY HAIR

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Life Lessons

My hair is living its own life – I’m just sort of along for the ride

And it’s always ready to school me in it’s latest life lessons.

Most of you know I started my professional life as a hairdresser, but really, my hair obsession started far earlier than that.

It started in 1973. I had always had bangs, thanks to my mother’s method of using TAPE (!) to create a “straight” line to cut my bangs. Except that I had some pretty wicked cowlicks in the front and the bangs were never straight.

I decided to let my bangs grow out, to which my mom replied with relief “yes, that is probably best.”

There I was, 7 years old and my hair was calling the shots

Flash forward a few years. 1979. I had my own money – hello babysitting – and paid for my own haircuts. I had a place that I actually liked but my mom had a coupon for a new place and talked me into going there instead.

Immediately the stylist said I should get the “Dorothy Hamill” haircut aka a wedge. I was not into it, I told her I was not into it, I even told her my father did not want me to have short hair (which was the truth).

She said okay.

Then turned me away from the mirror and proceeded to cut – you guessed it – a perfect wedge.

My school picture that year has me looking like I want to kill someone. And I did. That hairdresser.

Jump ahead another few years.

I’m in Beauty School to become a hairdresser.

That’s right – I’m now a hairdresser. In the 80’s.

Perms. Mousse. White Rain hairspray. The whole nine baby.

I had a solid decade of perm.

Then I wanted to color it too.

It was too much for my poor strands so I had to choose.

Color won out. It was the 90’s now. Perms were kind of passe. Warm reddish brown was the new me.

Life Lessons - 80's perm

Enter the phase of trying to just figure it out

After all, two young kids, an active lifestyle, and limited time and funds were the order of the day.

My life has continued to evolve and so has my hair.

I still love style products. I wear it relatively short in spite of what my dad thinks. And believe it or not, I actually like my hair (most of the time).

It all works because I realized my hair is WISE! It was doing more than just sitting on my head, causing me grief. My hair was teaching me some life lessons and I just needed to sit up and take notice.

Lesson 1: Don’t fight it!

Back in the 70’s when the whole bangs situation was rearing up (literally!) my hair was clearly saying “Hey, this is who I am. You can try to do something that doesn’t work but I will assert myself!”

There are parts of you that you quite possibly ignore, thinking they are a little too wild, a little too out there. The more you try to force yourself into a straight line, the more those parts will have to assert themselves.

If you just let it go and let it be what it is going to be, it will likely settle in after a bit and be just fine. You just have to get over the awkward grow-out phase.

We are all growing and changing. Sometimes trying out something new seems weird or out of your wheelhouse initially until you figure out the nuances that suit you.

Lesson 2: Trust your gut

That Dorothy Hamill haircut was the worst! So. Not. Me.

And I had paid for it!

I had someone that was right for me, that knew and understood my hair. But with just a little pressure – and a desire to please my mom – I ignored my gut, went to someone I didn’t want to go to even though it was my own money and paid not just with my money but my dignity as well.

I have had this lesson taught to me repeatedly. I think I was about 38 before it sunk in.

Do what works for you, not for someone else. They don’t have to live with the consequences and you do.

When I first started on my yoga journey I hated it! Eventually, though I figured out what yoga meant to me, focused on that, and then fell in love with it!

Lesson 3: Be who you really are

I loved my crazy 80’s perm. For awhile. My hair, however, eventually objected. “One more perm and I will frizz you!!”

While I liked the kinky curl that defined the era, that wasn’t my hair’s true nature. My real hair was a bit wavy in places, straight here and there, soft and even glossy.

I didn’t need all that frenetic energy. It was not me. Not for my hair and not for my personality. I am not one of those party and stay out late kind of people. I am asleep by 10p (okay really 9:30p…).

Trying to be something I am not just left me frizzy around the edges! While I loved aspects of it for other people, I needed to focus on what worked best for me.

Lesson 4: But also be whom you aspire to be

After giving up the perm I did give in to some color.

Nothing way off base. Just a little more warmth to liven things up a bit.

Still me, just a little bit fancied up.

We all aspire to be a certain way – a little nicer/kinder, more open and friendly, or whatever.

“Acting as if” isn’t about being a fake, it’s more about taking what you’ve got and just pushing to the next level, to be the person you want to be.

Lesson 5: A little control is good; too much just makes you brittle

Hairspray is kinda my first and longest love. Back in the day, it was all about shellacking the hell out of your hair.

It could not move.

It also flaked, made your hair dry and dull and definitely uninviting.

These days I still like some control – hello Kenra 25

But it’s soft, doesn’t build up, and lets my hair still feel like hair.

Life is the same way. Too much control and things may appear to be “perfect” but really your life is stiff and brittle, not organic and flexible.

You want freedom within your framework. Structure yes, but not rigidity. The ability to go with the flow is a lot healthier for you in the end.

Ahhh…now my attraction to yoga makes sense! The very heart of yoga allows you to find structure, learning to accept yourself as you are now and as you wish to be. Life lessons GALORE!

Life lessons are all around you

Yes, even in something as seemingly inconsequential as your hair (shh – don’t let my hair know I said that!)

You just have to look at things from a little bit of a different perspective. Find that space for yourself, that grace for yourself, and carve out the time to act on it.

laylo yoga and wellness

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

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52 MICRO ADVENTURES FOR THE NEW YEAR

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adventure

Adventure is the name of the 2024 game – at least for me.

I believe in setting intentions and choosing a word or two for the year rather than resolutions. It’s about bringing a mindset into everything I do. Resolutions tend to go by the wayside come February. When I want to make changes in how I live my life, I start with attitude!

Enter “Adventure”!

I’m not going to lie – I am a planner. A reserved planner at that. And yet…I still love a good adventure. After all, think about the stories you retell most. Don’t they often have a measure of unpredictability to them? Things went crazy or you let yourself go with the flow? Some of my biggest life changes started with some significant risks involved and still turned out to be the best thing I could have done.

I am committed to bringing that sense of adventure to my life in big and small ways this year. The biggest difference between adventure and adversity is attitude! Not that I want to run headlong into bad situations and try to call it adventure.

I want to shift my “oh no, what now?” reactions to “oh, this is interesting!”. I feel like the best way to practice that is to put myself in the way of adventure.

And of course, bring you along!

Micro Adventure Lab

I’ve put together a curated list of Micro Adventures – plus a few bigger things – to ease into the mindset shift. Many of these adventures are free or low cost with a few splurges included. Some can be completed in one weekend and others are designed to carry forward through a few weeks or even become a habit.

The idea is to go a bit outside your norms. For example, the first adventure on the list is to explore a local park. That means check out a park you have never been to before, not the same one you walk your dog at 3 times a week. In a nutshell, discover something new!

The 52 Micro Adventure list

1.      Explore a Local Park:
Take a leisurely stroll through a nearby park, focusing on appreciating the natural surroundings.

2.      Photography Challenge:
Capture a series of 10 photos that highlight the beauty of your everyday surroundings.
3.      Volunteer at a Community Garden:
Spend a day planting, weeding, and connecting with local community members.
4.      Try a New Recipe:
Experiment with a cuisine you’ve never attempted before, and share the results with friends or family.

5.      Book Club Adventure:
Join a local book club or start one with friends, and commit to reading one book a month.
6.      Yoga Retreat at Home:
Dedicate a weekend to practicing yoga and mindfulness, using online resources or attending local classes.
7.      Outdoor Movie Night:
Arrange a backyard movie night with friends, complete with blankets, popcorn, and a classic film.
8.      Art Class or Workshop:
Sign up for a local art class or workshop to discover and develop your artistic talents.
9.      Day of Pampering:
Treat yourself to a spa day at home, complete with DIY face masks, bath salts, and relaxation.
10.     Local History Exploration:
Visit a nearby museum or historical site to learn more about the heritage of your community.
11.     Learn a Musical Instrument:
Pick up a budget-friendly instrument and commit to learning a few songs over the next month.
12.     Creative Writing Challenge:
Write a short story or poem and share it with a writing group or online platform.

13.     Beach Day Getaway:
Spend a day at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the calming sound of the waves.
14.     Hiking Adventure:
Explore a local trail or nature reserve, aiming to complete a new hike each month.
15.     DIY Home Decor Project:
Refresh your living space by taking on a small DIY home decor project.


16.     Plant a Garden:
Cultivate a small garden, whether it’s flowers, herbs, or vegetables, and enjoy watching it flourish.
17.     Mindfulness Meditation Challenge:
Practice mindfulness meditation for 10 minutes daily for a week, gradually extending the duration.
18.     Explore Local Farmers’ Markets:
Discover and support local farmers by visiting nearby farmers’ markets.
19.     Host a Potluck Dinner:
Organize a potluck gathering with friends, encouraging everyone to bring their favorite dish.
20.     Cultural Cuisine Night:
Cook or order food from a different culture and enjoy a themed dinner night at home.
21.     Learn a Dance Style:
Take dance lessons, either in person or online, and master the basics of a new dance style.
22.     Picnic in the Park:
Pack a picnic basket with your favorite treats and spend a relaxing afternoon in a local park.
23.     Nature Sketching:
Bring a sketchbook to a nature spot and spend time sketching the beauty around you.
24.     DIY Craft Workshop:
Attend a local craft workshop or organize a crafting day with friends.
25.     Fitness Challenge:
Set a fitness goal, like walking a certain number of steps each day, and track your progress.

26.     Museum Exploration:
Visit a museum you’ve never been to before and immerse yourself in its exhibits.
27.     Mindful Eating Experiment:
Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite and paying attention to the flavors and textures.
28.     Local Theater Night:
Attend a local theater production or watch a live performance, supporting the arts in your community.
29.     Scenic Drive Adventure:
Take a scenic drive to a nearby town or countryside and explore the sights along the way.

museum day


30.     DIY Spa Day:
Create a spa day at home, complete with DIY facial masks, bath salts, and soothing music.
31.     Learn a New Language:
Dedicate 10 minutes each day to learning a new language using language learning apps.
32.     Sunset Photography Challenge:
Capture the beauty of sunsets in different locations over the course of a month.
33.     Explore a New Coffee Shop:
Discover a new local coffee shop and treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon with a good book.
34.     Declutter and Donate:
Declutter your living space and donate items to a local charity or thrift store.
35.     Art Gallery Visit:
Spend a day exploring local art galleries and appreciating the creativity of local artists.
36.     Cooking Class:
Join a cooking class, either in person or online, to enhance your culinary skills.
37.     Creative Journaling:
Start a creative journal, incorporating art, writing, and reflections on your daily experiences.
38.     Birdwatching Adventure:
Explore a nearby nature reserve or park and observe the diverse bird species in the area.
39.     Mind-Body Connection Workshop:
Attend a workshop or class that focuses on the mind-body connection, such as yoga or tai chi.
40.     Stargazing Night:
Spend an evening stargazing, either in your backyard or at a local observatory.
41.     DIY Flower Arranging:
Purchase fresh flowers and learn the art of flower arranging to create beautiful bouquets.
42.     Visit a Farmers’ Market:
Explore a local farmers’ market, sampling fresh produce and supporting local farmers.
43.     Online Learning Adventure:
Enroll in an online course or workshop on a topic that interests you.
44.     Wine Tasting Evening:
Arrange a wine tasting evening with friends, each bringing a bottle to share and discuss.
45.     Learn a New Language:
Use an app or program to get started or sign up for a class at a local community college.

46.     Local Yoga Retreat:
Book a yoga retreat in a nature-filled location, focusing on relaxation and mindfulness.
47.     Learn to Knit or Crochet:
Pick up knitting or crocheting and create a cozy scarf or blanket over the next month.
48.     Walking Meditation Challenge:
Practice walking meditation daily for a week, focusing on each step taken.
49.     Explore a New Hobby:
Find some time to dedicate to exploring a new hobby, whether it’s painting, pottery, or photography.

50.     DIY Movie Marathon:
Choose a theme and host a movie marathon night at home with friends or family.
51.     Visit a Botanical Garden:
Spend a day exploring the beauty of a local botanical garden and learning about different plant species.
52.     Hot Air Balloon Ride:
Splurge on a hot air balloon ride for a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

What’s on YOUR adventure list?

I’ve included things that appeal to me, but what about you? What would you put on this list?

Even when times are tough, money is tight, and time is scarce, you can carve out some time to explore and expand your world. It’s part of what makes you well, you. Learning, experiencing and growing are all key elements to leading a fulfilling life.

laylo yoga and wellness

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

Be the first to know about upcoming retreats—join the info list for dates and details.

Let’s stay connected! Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and join the LAYLO Shala for exclusive updates and insights.

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NO HEADSTANDS, PLEASE!

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I promise I am not opposed to headstands. BUT, hear me out on this. As a yoga teacher, I don’t practice headstands. Or legs behind the head pose. Or scorpion pose. Any posture that requires advanced flexibility is not for me and I don’t teach them in my classes or on my retreats.

And that’s okay.

No. Really.

I believe yoga is for everyone.

That means each person can take it where they want to go. You may wish to continuously increase your flexibility and mobility. You may want to practice in advanced movement. I am happy to refer any of my students who are interested in those things to the right teachers for them.

There are so many facets to yoga, and so many ways you can approach it.

There is a lot of controversy around this philosophy. Many yoga teachers are yoga purists who feel that the practice is part of an overall spiritual journey. They aren’t too happy about yoga being a physical practice for some people. Or a social and community bonding experience. Or basically anything other than a full spiritual experience.

If your approach focuses on the physicality of advanced movement – go for it! Conversely, if you are seeking a spiritual path and yoga is part of that; awesome! If you aren’t quite sure what your approach is, find out by taking this quick quiz.

I want to participate in and create a different experience.

For me, yoga is about enhancing your life. Yes, creating the flexibility and mobility needed to continue to do things you want to do in your everyday life. Headstands, not so much a part of daily life.

I love the physicality of yoga! The strength I feel when I practice, the challenge of movement. In addition, I am really drawn to the mind/body connection it creates.

Look, if you read the series My Journey to Yoga Retreat Specialist, you also know that my entire career has been in the fitness industry. So it is natural for me to find focus in the physical action of yoga.

Fitness, for me, also created a strong mind/body connection. A hard ride in a cycle class really let me blow off some steam! The intricate movements and high cardio output of a good old-fashioned step class helped me appreciate how my body moves through space. And boxing? Please – talk about building a feeling of mental and physical strength!

Yoga takes that mind/body connection to the next level.

Literally.

Fitness is the broad strokes: blowing off steam, building spatial awareness, and increasing mental strength.

Yoga gets down to the cellular level. Connecting your brain to your breath so you can self-regulate your nervous system. Speeding up the messages from your foot to your brain so you can maintain balance. Finding awareness of your thoughts and learning to allow them to pass on by.

This is the juicy stuff people!

Focus on making your life better.

Just to reiterate, I think advanced poses are pretty cool. Many would argue that those postures really do enhance your life – greater control, overcoming your body’s objections, and some pretty impressive flexibility/mobility. I don’t doubt it.

My personal mission, though, is to meet people where they are.

My tribe are people in the midst of juggling kids, careers, aging parents, and their own aging bodies. The crowd that resonates with my style wants to slow down, master, and enjoy each posture. They want to leave their practice feeling calmer, stronger, and accomplished.

Life is pretty crazy for a lot of us. Our schedules are packed, our laptops are always on, and we have instant knowledge, connectivity, and comparison in our purses, buzzing for attention all day long.

Personally, I don’t want to add legs behind my head to my to do list.

Calm, peace, and improved sleep and mental health mean more to me.

Studies show that participants who practiced yoga three times a week for eight weeks reported significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and neurotic symptoms, as well as mood improvements at the end of each class.

Yes, please!

Stepping into an advanced class might be a turn-off.

Part of meeting people where they are, for me, is making classes accessible. If you have never taken a yoga class before, you will be able to get through mine! I teach every class as if there is a brand-new participant in the room. I teach to them.

Those that have been practicing for a while, are able to hone their skills and dig in a little deeper with each practice.

If you have mastered advanced movement? You can still benefit from reviewing some of the more basic postures AND you will have the opportunity to level up to where you are at with a pose at any time.

I’m not everybody’s cup of tea, but I am somebody’s double martini!

Every yoga teacher has their own style, approach, and focus. That is what makes it so incredible!

It is important that you: A) understand what YOUR approach is so you know what kind of teacher will resonate with you B) aren’t afraid to hunt around for the right fit and C) realize that your approach may broaden and/or change over time.

It’s all good!

You don’t have to choose between success and well-being. Step away from the chaos, reset your mind and body, and realign with what truly matters. Our wellness retreats, online courses, and free resources give you the space to breathe, reflect, and design a life that feels fulfilling—without guilt, without compromise.

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