253: Plot Twist: How a Failed Dance Career Led Yoga Rebel Tara Stiles to Make Yoga Accessible for Everyone

In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with Tara Stiles, the pioneering founder of Stråla Yoga, to explore how she transformed a simple idea into a global wellness movement. Tara shares her journey from modeling in New York to becoming a yoga icon known for making yoga accessible, relaxed, and truly inclusive. If you've ever thought about starting something new or felt drawn to create a positive impact, Tara’s story is filled with down-to-earth insights and inspiring moments that might be exactly what you need to hear.

Through her innovative approach, Tara made yoga available to people who thought they “weren’t yoga people.” She began by offering free classes in Central Park, which then led to the launch of Stråla Yoga in her apartment—a simple but powerful space where anyone could show up as they were. Light and Tara dive into the ups and downs of her journey, from her humble beginnings to building a studio without the traditional “rules” of yoga. Together, they discuss why charging for classes can actually create a stronger community and how keeping things simple often leads to the most meaningful impact.

Listeners will hear practical lessons on following intuition, making wellness accessible, and building community without needing fancy equipment or big budgets. Tara’s story is a reminder that success doesn’t always follow a set path; sometimes, it’s about doing what feels right and watching something beautiful unfold. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or someone just starting out, this episode offers refreshing, real-world advice on how to build something that matters.

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