Today, we're thrilled to dive into the inspiring journey of Asha Michibata, a passionate yogi who turned her love for yoga into a thriving business venture.
From trying yoga out for the first time at a gym to becoming a sought-after yoga teacher and entrepreneur, Asha's story is one of resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of yoga beyond the mat.
Join us as we chat with Asha about her personal journey into yoga, the challenges she faced building her business, and her invaluable advice for aspiring yoga teachers and entrepreneurs.
Grab your favorite yoga mat and get ready to be inspired!
Q: Can you tell us about your journey into yoga?
My yoga journey kicked off rather unexpectedly: at a gym with an instructor I didn't quite vibe with. But it was that post-yoga bliss that hooked me. I started exploring on my own, diving into YouTube sessions, and eventually, self-taught my way through.
Q: How has yoga influenced your life beyond the physical aspect?
Yoga's impact extends far beyond the physical realm for me. Amidst the chaos of city life and the grind of a 9-to-5, yoga taught me invaluable lessons in self-control and emotional balance. It's not just about poses; it's about becoming a better version of myself.
Q: What inspired you to become a yoga teacher and share your knowledge with others?
The magic of yoga is something I couldn't keep to myself. My mission has always been to spread love and happiness, and yoga naturally became the platform for this the more I explored it.
I believe everyone deserves to experience yoga and I aim to be that catalyst for someone’s transformation. As a yoga teacher, witnessing someone's journey into yoga and watching them fall in love with the practice is incredibly rewarding.
You know the feeling when someone tries your favorite food for the first time and loves it? That is exactly how I feel every time I see newcomers’ faces light up after their first yoga session. It’s just pure joy! Moments like these reaffirm my commitment to being that welcoming first step into yoga.
Q: Could you share some challenges you faced while building your yoga business and how you overcame them?
When I first started, I seriously had no idea how far this venture would go (I still don’t). There’s always uncertainty when we’re trying new things, and that’s scary.
Transitioning from Thailand to Malaysia without an established customer base was tough. Filling classes, establishing credibility, and building a name amidst big studio competition takes a lot of effort at first.
Social media has been a lifeline, allowing me to stay connected and provide daily updates, especially during tough times. It's all about keeping that virtual bond strong. Ultimately, it’s all about showing up—be it online, in class, or in real life.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring yoga teachers or entrepreneurs looking to build their brand in this field?
Passion and perseverance are your best friends. Embrace the tough times, keep doing what you love, and always stay open to learning. Remember, a good teacher is also a humble student.
I've also learned not to compete but to focus on creativity and authenticity. Being different and staying true to myself has been key to my growth, both personally and professionally.
Feeling inspired? Share with us your favorite yoga instructors
Whether you're a budding yoga teacher or an entrepreneur carving your path, remember the importance of passion, perseverance, and staying true to yourself.
Do you have a favorite yoga teacher or entrepreneur in the industry? We'd love to hear about them! Send us their names via Instagram DM or email so we can spotlight the incredible individuals shaping the yoga community.
While you're here, why not take a moment to browse our online store? Whether you need a new yoga mat, a mat carry strap, or some yoga props, we've got you covered. Dive in, find your favorites, and elevate your yoga practice to new heights!
