Today we’d like to introduce you to Paradise Taylor.
Hi Paradise, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always enjoyed fitness and movement! I danced and ran track in high school and was introduced to Yoga in my late teens. My practice began in the Ashtanga lineage, which I still dabble in from time to time. It didn’t take long for me to discover that the practice was not only good for lengthening and strengthening the muscular system, but also provided a sense of balance and calm throughout my life. After years of reaping the benefits of yoga, I felt the desire to give back and to share yoga with others through teaching.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think one of my biggest challenges was taking the leap to switch careers. This was especially difficult as my kids were still pretty young (8 and 10) when I did decide to sign up for teacher training. Plus, I had two degrees that I had invested a lot of time and money in, so to change course and start something new felt scary and maybe not like the “smartest” decision. But there was definitely a calling and knowing deep within me, and once I was awakened to it, it was hard to turn back.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I teach yoga and lead yoga retreats. I teach a variety of styles, from kids to strength and power classes, and everything in between. One thing I feel proud of is my deep desire to continue to learn and grow. Since completing my 200 certifications in 2015, I have not been able to stop doing trainings. There is SO much knowledge and wisdom in the teachings and I’m honestly a bit surprised at my hunger for it. I never thought of myself as a particularly studious person, however when it comes to yoga, I’m eager to learn it all! ! (Although, I’m not sure that is possible to do in this lifetime.). That said, over the years I’ve been able to acquire quite a bit of knowledge not only in the physical aspects of the practice, but also the philosophical, both of which are incredibly powerful in their own accord. I think what sets me apart is that I often try to weave both of these elements into my teachings and try to do so in an authentic, down-to-earth, and practical fashion. I try to meet students where they are on their mats and share with them as much of the yoga goodness as they are ready to receive.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Yes! I know it can be a bit overwhelming when you first walk into a yoga room, especially if you are brand new! But I think it’s helpful to know, that there are no expectations in yoga. In this practice, you are welcomed just as you are. You don’t have to be flexible or have a certain body type. You are not there to perform. Yoga is not at all about how it looks but instead about how it feels! You are there only for yourself, to move and be present in your body. To observe yourself and cultivate a sense of presence. And that’s it! One of my favorite quotes by Mr. T. K. V. Desikachar (1995) says, “We begin where we are, and how we are, and whatever happens, happens”. I often call this to mind when I’m starting something new and offer this when I’m teaching beginners.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.paradiseyogatx.com
- Instagram: paradiseyogatx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paradiseyogatx
- Youtube: @paradiseyogatx
Image Credits
Keelyn Costello
