Our WHY, can you relate?
Why I Teach Yoga...
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My journey into teaching yoga is fueled by two simple yet profound motivations: nourishment and connection — to both oneself and others.
Yoga has been my transformative companion, a gift I'm passionate about sharing. It all began with my health-conscious mother, who unknowingly introduced me to yoga through playful headstands. Her sudden departure when I was 19 propelled me into the whirlwind of life — college, career, marriage, kids, and the ebb and flow of family dynamics.
Years passed, filled with caring for and losing loved ones, leaving me emotionally drained. As our children embarked on their college journeys, I found myself with newfound time. Remembering the solace and fun I discovered in yoga, I took in a beginner series with a friend at the age of 48 and rediscovered the laughter, tears and sweat. That was my return to yoga — initially the intense, sweaty kind. It became a sanctuary where my physical and mental strength flourished, prompting bold moves in my life.
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My dream of becoming a yoga teacher surfaced at 49, a decision I once deemed a midlife crisis turned out to be my best chapter yet. Through practice and training, I embraced the beauty of being a student, learning something new and investing in myself; all of which led me to experiencing a profound shift. Yoga became my vessel for personal growth, empowering me to guide others in their own transformative journeys.
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Teaching yoga isn't just a dream realized; it's a calling.
Witnessing its impact on my self-esteem, healing from loss and injuries, and fostering compassion, I found my purpose.
The practice, beyond its physical aspects, provided a platform for vulnerability and honesty. Teaching allows me to lead others toward a deeper understanding of their bodies, just as my mentors did for me.
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Yoga has been my healer, addressing grief, health issues, and life's challenges. A decade into teaching, the passion remains unwavering. It's not just about the asanas; it's a lifelong commitment. Being a yoga teacher fulfills my desire to serve a better world, fostering empathy, compassion, and the pursuit of dreams.
Reflecting on the investment of time, money, and energy in my yoga journey, the returns have been immeasurable.
The feedback, connections, and friendships formed are priceless. Students share stories of physical and mental well-being, reaffirming the practice's transformative power.
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For me, teaching yoga isn't just a profession; it's a way of life — a journey of empathy, compassion, connection, and living out one's dreams. It's the true essence of flow.
Hey there, it's Gina, the heart behind Heart & Grit. Let me share why I teach yoga — in a nutshell, it's all about purpose and meaningful work.
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Back in 2001, I found solace in fitness when my life hit rock bottom. At the age of 24, I found myself extremely overweight, unhealthy, depressed and secluded from the world. Moving my body and being with others shifted my entire life.
Fast forward to 2014, a decade into teaching fitness and yoga, I faced a heartbreaking call — my dad took his own life. Confronted with loss once again (having lost my mom at 19), I stared into the face of mortality, questioning my existence.
Yoga became my lifeline, a powerful force urging me to change.
Despite outward success, I felt the undercurrent of survival — hustling, trying to perfect life, proving myself, performing for others all while feeling disconnected and exhausted.
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Something had to change.
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I immersed myself in teaching more yoga, taking more trainings and within 30 days of my dad's passing, I committed to opening a studio, teaching my first class a year later.
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Teaching yoga is my purpose, my soul's nourishment.
It's about connecting with people, bringing clarity to their lives, and helping them with their 'wake-up call.'
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It's the meaningful work I'll leave behind as my legacy.
Now, I ask you: Do you feel the call to leave a legacy?
Has yoga changed your life?
Do you dream of connecting and sharing this practice with others?
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If so, what are you waiting for?
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In January 2024, join me and Laurie in our Yoga Teacher Training Program.
As I approach the age my mom left this world, I feel young and invigorated, knowing there's so much more to do. I couldn't fathom this being the end, but if it were, I'd rest easy knowing I made an impact and served a higher purpose.
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Don't wait.
Life is too unpredictable to postpone your dreams.
If you're ready to make a difference, join us on this transformative journey.
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Let's create your legacy together.
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