Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Nutter Snay.
Linda, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I took my first yoga class with a friend, at the age of 18. I remember clearly the feeling that remained after that first class; serenity, peace, complete relaxation. I remembering sitting for a few minutes after class, trying to soak in this feeling and understand it. So, I kept going back, several times a week, learning new postures, uncovering new dimensions of the practice. In college, we were required to take credits in Physical Education, and to my delight they offered Yoga, as well as Yoga Teacher Prep. Through these courses I discovered deeper aspects of the practice, including philosophy and meditation, which became (and still are) heavy influences on my practice.
After a few years of practice, I knew I wanted to deepen my experience and knowledge of yoga even more, and signed up for my first Yoga Teacher Training program, a year long study of the practice, philosophy, anatomy, and more. I learned so much, made life long friends, and my path was set.
It takes a while to get rooted and create a following in yoga. I began by creating a Facebook Page for Touch the Earth Yoga, business cards, spent time marketing my classes, showing up to teach with no students, working really hard to get those first few clients and make it work. I continued with my studies, reading books, taking workshops, practicing, and showing up. It paid off. A local newspaper article highlighted a class I taught at a local farm. I received not only new clients but also a job offer, where I have spent over 6 years building a yoga program.
Now, 16 years from that first yoga class experience, yoga continues to be my anchoring practice. I have been teaching for over 11 years and counting, in varied locations such as yoga studios, pilates centers, gardens and farms, hospitals and the local recreation department. I continue to build on my knowledge, gaining another certification in Restorative Yoga, and have more plans for the future.
Has it been a smooth road?
It is not a smooth road, but struggle is part of the process. If you keep at it, keep looking at what works and what doesn’t, it will become worthwhile.
First, finding clientele can be challenging. It can be crushing to spend time preparing classes only to show up to an empty room. Its important to find your niche and not try to fit a mold. Think about how you teach and your style. What makes your classes unique from the other classes offered nearby? For instance, I like to teach a meditative yoga, deeply focused on the breath and safe alignment. My first job, I was asked to teach a challenging, hardcore yoga “workout”. It was not me and it didn’t serve the students. Once I stayed true to myself and my style, I found my clientele.
Second, know your value. Many people are surprised to find out the amount of training, continuing education, and knowledge that come with being a yoga teacher. You have a skill to share, your skill is valuable. Know what you want and don’t be afraid to ask for it.
Third, support each other. Don’t see competition in other teachers. They can be an asset and friend. Learn from each other, refer clientele if you know a teacher offers something different than you (and hopefully they will do the same for you!), and confide in each other about your struggles. It is always good to feel you have someone with shared experience.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Touch the Earth Yoga story. Tell us more about the business.
My style is an eclectic form of Hatha Yoga, infused with Mindfulness practice. I teach a variety of classes, including Slow-Flow classes for strength, Stress Relief Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and Private Yoga. My classes offer safe alignment and sequencing, and I like to offer clients to focus on how the pose feels from within, not whether it looks like a picture in a book. I encourage the use props as much as needed, and remind clients to always stay true to the breath. The breath is the life force of your practice.
I am proud to teach classes that are inclusive, open for all levels, and specifically designed to be welcoming to those that may feel intimidated by yoga or think they can’t do yoga. I truly believe that yoga is a practice that anyone can incorporate into their life. I’ve designed classes around chairs for those with limited mobility, offer at least 3 variations on postures for all levels, have tips for making practice accessible for specific chronic issues, and offer a supportive environment for questions and growth. Beyond the physical practice, I emphasize the importance of the breath in the relaxation response, allowing a deep release of the stress and tension we carry with us day to day. And, as I teach in a hospital setting, it is always humbling to hear a physician has recommended my class.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
The leader of your Yoga Teacher Training will be your first mentor. Listen from their experience and take it to heart. You will meet many wonderful people in training, workshops, and classes, keep in touch and support each other. I have found that taking classes with a variety of teachers unlocks a wealth of information. Everyone has something to teach you! Make sure you find one teacher you truly mesh with and learn from them at least a few times per year.
Take local classes. Like I said before, let other teachers be a source of support versus competition. Join groups. Yoga Alliance has been a wonderful resource for me throughout the years. The Yoga Service Council is another, with an annual conference you can attend. Make use of social media in positive and constructive ways.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.touchtheearthyoga.com
- Email: info@touchtheearthyoga.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/touchtheearthyoga/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/lindasnay
Image Credit:
Linda Snay
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