This month’s mentor:
Rima Patel aka The Grounded Yogi (thegroundedyogilife.com) and creator of the Get Grounded App
Does a YTT set you up for running your own business?
Teacher training gives you a solid foundation based on knowledge and understanding of yoga itself. However, there are so many aspects of running a business that it would be impossible to include it all in the training. Yoga is such an intuitive practice that it is hard to also think of it from a business point of view, so although your YTT is a huge part of your journey it’s important to expect it to be just the beginning of your business one.
What’s your niche?
My focus is on busy women juggling the balance of life. I want to use my own experiences from motherhood and corporate life to show women how mindful practices can play a huge part in all areas of their life.
Do you use a business coach or mentor?
I initially started out on my own and realised very quickly that me simply wanting to share my yoga practice with others is not enough to build a business. Having a business coach who is aligned with my objectives allows me to see things from a different perspective. It helps me in the areas in which I am not skilled and also provides a sounding board in a very saturated industry.
Social media tips?
Although I regularly use social media to connect with my audience and showcase my offerings, it can be toxic if not used in the right way. It’s essential you protect yourself from the harm it can cause you mentally. I never use social media first thing in the morning or late in the evenings, I have time limits on my social accounts and also take regular breaks, for example, not looking at it for a whole weekend. If I don’t implement these boundaries I personally feel the harm from using it, which can outweigh any benefits.
Self-care tips?
Teaching can use up a lot of your energy so it’s important to acknowledge that you need to make time for practices and ways to replenish your own energy too. This will differ for each person depending on their personality traits. As an introvert, I get my energy from going inwards, so a daily meditation practice is my way of ensuring I'm filling up my own cup before attempting to pour from it for my students.
Hardest lesson?
It’s easy to think that because you teach yoga for a living, you’re getting your own practice in at the same time. There was a time when I allowed my own practice to slip and it lead to major burnout, and ultimately it can prevent you from being a great teacher. It’s crucial you make time for your own practice in order to restore your own energy.
Om Magazine
First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.
