We’re counting the days until Namaslay® YTT Tennessee! These trainees are preparing for 3 weeks of study, hard work, and a whole lotta growth. We asked them to answer a few questions, so you could get to know them before the training. They’ll be checking in as the date gets closer, hopping on the Namaslay® YTT Instagram account for social media assignments and will give you an update on their progress during and after training, so read on to learn their faces and fantastic personalities. If you’re thinking of taking the leap and signing up for your own 200 hour yoga teacher training, after Tennessee in August, we’ll be back in Santorini next April. We’d love to see you there! If you have any questions about Namaslay® YTT, feel free to drop them in the comments or send us an email.
Joanna W.
What's one important skill you think everyone should have?
Curiosity. It is so important to continue to grow and learn and explore. When you re curious, you continue to seek things that make you grow as a person and things that make you learn so that you become the best version of yourself.
In three words, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Always Be Yourself
What books have you gifted most to other people?
"The Road" by Cormac McCarthy. It took three people recommending it to me before I read it. When I did, it changed my life.
Follow her on IG @joanna_wren
Laura E.
What's one important skill you think everyone should have?
Listening skills
If you could have coffee or tea with one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Jesus, the most peaceful and loving man to ever walk this earth.
What books have you gifted most to other people?
Follow her on IG @treeniyoga
Madison B.
What's one thing you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Own a dog! It is the most unconditional and rewarding love around. (I’m a big fan of dogs. My boys are my world!)
What's one important skill you think everyone should have?
Empathy. It’s so important to understand and acknowledge the difference between sympathy and empathy. It allows for compassion and a true connection with others.
In three words, what advice would you give to your younger self?
See the good.
Follow her on IG @mad.bowler
Laura G.
What's one thing you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
I think everyone should travel alone at least once in their lives, be it a road trip or something more extensive. Experiencing a new place alone just gives a new, unique insight into yourself and the world around you. It is also an awesome way to encourage yourself to meet new people.
In three words, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Trust your gut
If you could have coffee or tea with one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
I would have tea with Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine. Through the music she writes, she just seems like an incredibly authentic and genuine person and I would love to actually get to know the woman behind the music that I have been obsessed with for years.
Follow her on IG @laur_g21
Hannah D.
In three words, what advice would you give to your younger self?
LISTEN TO MOM
If you were a breakfast food, what would you be and why?
Pancakes because I’m often covered in syrup.
What books have you gifted most to other people?
Probably either Devil in the White City by Erik Larson, Let’s Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson, or Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman. I like books more than people, usually.
Follow her on IG @hannahshaelin
Melanie C.
What's one thing you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Work in service, retail, or entry level. It’s important to have respect and compassion for people in all walks of life. The best way to learn is through experience.
If you were a breakfast food, what would you be and why?
I think I would be an avocado, although subtle, with the right spices it’s a real game changer.
One thing people might be surprised to know about you?
I can cook and bake. I equally enjoy both. I also really love going grocery shopping.
Follow her on IG @sweet_melabu and @yogistylebymel
Marleny R.
If you were a breakfast food, what would you be and why?
I would be a pancake because they’re comforting, filling and sweet.
One thing people might be surprised to know about you?
I was not born in the USA. I am I proud Dominican :-)
What books have you gifted most to other people?
Follow her on IG @_marlenyxo
Maddie B.
What's one thing you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Travel. There is so much to be learned from the world we live in and the people in it. Traveling and experiencing how beautiful and extraordinary our world is and experiencing other cultures is such a gift.
In three words, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Just love yourself.
If you were a breakfast food, what would you be and why?
Avocado toast because who doesn't love avocado toast???
Follow her on IG @holistikrootsyoga
Stay tuned as our trainees check-in during the training, give them some love in the comments, and follow their stories as they practice their social media skills on Instagram @namaslayytt!