5Q Interview with Nicole Kempka, aka @RedLotusMama
Studio Manager of YogaSix
Find her on Instagram here!
1.) Tell me about your personal journey with yoga. Why is it important to you?
I found yoga in 2000 when I was living in San Francisco. Every day after work I would walk by a yoga studio were people would pour out the door drenched in sweat and looking totally blissed out. After my first class at that studio I was hooked. Over the years I have taken breaks from my practice, but whenever life hit some bumps I would return to my mat. My mind would clear, my body would feel better, and life would feel less bumpy. Yoga has challenged me to really find who I am and what I want out of this life.
2.) When did you first begin teaching yoga? What made you transition into a leadership position?
I started teaching yoga full time in January 2014, after spending 13.5 years in Internet Project Management. Becoming the Studio/Program Manager for Yoga Six Solana Beach gave me the chance to utilize all of the skills I had developed in my previous career while working in the industry I love so much.
3.) What makes your classes unique?
My passion for hands on adjustments! Whether it is for alignment support, to deepen a stretch or simply a feel good massage … I really enjoy giving hands on adjustments in my class. I love when a student tells me afterwards that an adjustment I gave them really helped or felt so good. I believe hands on adjustments can transform a class for any student.
4.) How does music benefit your guidance in a yoga class?
Music is a huge component in a class. It can set the tone and pace. It can round out an experience of the senses.
5.) Tell me about your next event and where we can follow you online.
There all kinds of workshops happening at Yoga Six Solana Beach in 2017! I will be leading one called “Empowered Heart: Backbends, Vitality & Sweet Connection” on Sunday, February 19. You can find our schedule by going to http://yogasix.com/studio/
BONUS QUESTION:
6.) How has becoming a manager of a yoga studio shaped your journey as a yogi and a person? Talk to the challenges and successes you’ve faced.
I have had the opportunity to use my “yoga of the mat” a lot more as the Studio Manager of a busy yoga studio. I daily use active listening skills and conscious communication with my team and members. Understanding that we are all on a different path of this yoga journey and to have patience and respect for that. Stepping outside of my comfort zone in all aspects has encouraged me to change my habits, ask for help and recognize where I have room to grow.
