Hampstead Hive Member Spotlight - Laura Della Guardia
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS..
My business is deeply rooted in my passion for yoga. I hold an advanced Yoga Alliance certification, specializing in Pregnancy and Postnatal Yoga (RYT-500 & RPYT). With two decades of personal practice and almost a decade of teaching experience, I offer both group and private classes in NorthWest London, primarily in the beautiful neighborhood of Hampstead, where I live. Additionally, I lead yoga retreats around the world and play a role in shaping future yoga instructors at various teacher trainings, although that aspect is currently on hold due to my responsibilities as a mom to a busy toddler.
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST BUSINESS ACHIEVMENT SO FAR?
My move from San Francisco to London during the pandemic in October 2020, while pregnant and new to the London yoga scene, was quite the adventure and it took some time before I could get back to teaching. My first opportunity in London was given to me by a local yoga studio, Flo Yoga. From there, I've painstakingly rebuilt my business, nurturing a thriving community of joyful yogis. My most significant business achievement is not merely the process of starting over in a new city and country, but the beautiful challenge of doing so as a new mother.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE NEXT?
My aspiration is to continue supporting local expectant and postnatal individuals and their infants through the practice of yoga. I hope to expand my offerings in the coming years. However, I must emphasize that in the spirit of yoga, I do not fixate on what's next. Instead, I focus on the present, giving my utmost to what I'm currently doing, because I firmly believe that whatever comes next will naturally fall into place.
WHAT ONE PIECE OF ADVICE WOULD YOU LIKE TO OFFER SOMEONE THINKING OF ENTERING INTO YOUR FIELD?
My advice is simple – don't rush it. Just as you wouldn't rush through a yoga class, don't hurry your journey to becoming the best teacher you can be. Take deliberate, measured steps to learn and grow. Training with reputable teachers and serving as an apprentice can be invaluable. Time is your ally, for others can sense when there's a sense of urgency in your journey. Your energy is everything, so exude the kind of energy you'd want from a yoga teacher while staying true to yourself. Your genuine self will attract the right students to you.
What is your favourite aspect of working in the local area?
Living in Hampstead, sending my son to a local nursery, and teaching yoga in this vibrant neighborhood has created a beautiful synergy. My yoga students inevitably become a part of my local community, and vice versa. The simple pleasure of recognizing familiar faces on the streets, even if it's just a fleeting smile exchanged while we go about our busy lives, makes our world feel smaller in the most heartwarming way.
WHAT ENCOURAGED YOU TO JOIN HAMPSTEAD HIVE AND WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE HIVEBEEN LIKE SO FAR?
I've been a part of various networking groups over the years, but what truly resonates with me and my business is being part of a close-knit local community that supports each other. This is precisely what I've found in Hampstead Hive, and I'm incredibly grateful for the camaraderie and opportunities it has offered me.
WHERE CAN WE GO TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS/ACCESS YOUR SERVICES?
To learn more about my offerings and access my services, please visit my website at www.Yogilaura.com. You'll find a wealth of information about my classes, workshops, and how to connect with me.