Greetings, dear friends! I am thrilled to announce that Dave and I have successfully completed our 200-hour yoga instructor certification! This transformative journey began at the end of July at the renowned Lotus Pond studio located in Tampa. My motivation for enrolling in this program stemmed from a desire to rebuild trust in my body after undergoing surgeries, enhance my physical strength and stamina, and embark on a deeper journey of self-discovery. The experience has been nothing short of extraordinary, filled with personal growth and newfound insights.

Discover the Serenity of Lotus Pond Yoga Studio

Lotus Pond is a stunning and tranquil sanctuary nestled near Citrus Park, offering an extensive array of yoga classes, teacher training, meditation sessions, workshops, and retreats all within a nurturing and supportive community. With classes running seven days a week, typically starting at 9 a.m., the studio provides a welcoming environment for yogis of all levels to explore their practice and deepen their understanding of yoga.

Founded by Val Spies, an E-RYT500 certified Kripalu yoga teacher, as well as a Chopra Health & Meditation teacher and Chopra Wellness Coach, Lotus Pond is a hub for holistic wellness. The studio is currently co-owned by Katie Beene, an E-RYT500 YACEP instructor boasting over 2,500 hours of teaching experience, alongside Alyssa Liadis, who is an RYT 200 certified instructor, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for all participants.

Meet Our Inspiring Yoga Instructors at Lotus Pond

One of the standout instructors at Lotus Pond is the talented Meagan Lynn Pilawski, RYT 500. A gifted Chokopa Shamanic Reiki Master, Meagan combines her extensive knowledge with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Medical Cannabis Science & Therapeutics from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. Her classes are truly inspiring, and the solstice ceremonies she leads are particularly magical, fostering deep connections among participants.

Every class with Meagan is an opportunity to learn and grow, both physically and spiritually. Her unique approach to yoga and healing encourages students to explore their full potential while nurturing their inner selves.

Our Dedicated Yoga Teacher Training Instructors

Throughout our training, we were guided by an exceptional team of primary instructors, including Katie, Ryan, and Chris, whose expertise greatly enriched our experience. Additionally, we were fortunate to have several guest instructors who shared their valuable knowledge, such as Manasa Kanithi and Larissa Hall Carlson, both of whom brought unique perspectives and insights to our training.

Celebrating Our Journey in Yoga Teacher Training

Over the course of our training, our classmates transformed from mere acquaintances into a close-knit and supportive community that I deeply cherish. I am incredibly thankful for the shared moments and experiences we have had together, and I feel immense pride in each person’s journey toward becoming a certified yoga instructor!

The Significance of Wearing White During Our Graduation

As part of our graduation ceremony, every participant was required to don white attire, symbolizing purity and new beginnings. This practice resonated with me deeply, as the last time I wore all white was during my teenage baptism, making it a poignant reminder of transformation and growth.

My Graduation Attire Choices

For this special occasion, I selected my BlackMilk Gothic Royal Shirt (LE, discontinued) for its exquisite lace detailing, which added a touch of elegance to my outfit. To complement the top, I chose the Lively Ghosts White Apparition Skirt, as I didn’t own any white bottoms at the time. The skirt not only has a stylish design but also features convenient pockets—definitely a bonus! To add a splash of color, I accessorized with my Betsey Johnson Midnight Garden Snake Collar (LE, discontinued), which enhanced the overall aesthetic.

Reflecting on Our Life-Changing Yoga Journey

Embarking on the journey of yoga teacher training at Lotus Pond has been life-altering in countless ways. It has profoundly shifted my perspective, cultivating a deeper sense of compassion towards individuals whose narratives often trap them. I feel enriched by the connections I’ve made and the insights I’ve gained throughout this transformative process.

Completing the yoga teacher training alongside Dave has filled me with gratitude, and I deeply appreciate the supportive community that has embraced us. I also want to express heartfelt thanks to our chosen family and loved ones who stood by us throughout this remarkable journey over the past year.

Practicing yoga has significantly enhanced my confidence in my body and has contributed to improved health and mental well-being. This transformative practice is now an integral part of my lifestyle, marking a permanent change that I cherish.

Explore More About Our Journey