We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alyssa Contreras a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alyssa, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
As the chaos caused by Covid-19 began to subside and life gradually returned to normalcy, I found myself lacking a sense of excitement and direction. Unlike my friends who were actively engaged in sports and school clubs, eagerly anticipating college and clear academic paths, I felt lost and uncertain about how to utilize the newfound post-pandemic freedom. I felt I had no clear life path. Then, unexpectedly, my mom approached me with an intriguing opportunity before school one day. She suggested I attend yoga teacher training at a studio we had occasionally visited. With little familiarity with yoga and uncertain about my level of interest, I agreed to give it a shot. Unbeknownst to me at the time, that simple decision would go on to change my life in a profoundly positive way. Teaching yoga turned out to be a perfect fit for me. Witnessing its transformative effects not only on myself but also on others, both physically and mentally, ignited a passion within me. It became evident that teaching yoga was my true calling, a means through which I could assist others and contribute positively to their well-being. This newfound purpose served as an inspiration, prompting me to pursue an Associates degree in Exercise Science and become involved in the realm of personal training.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Sharing the knowledge I’ve acquired has always held a special place in my heart. My journey through yoga teacher training was transformative, opening my eyes to a profound appreciation for the incredible capabilities of the human body. This newfound perspective ignited a burning desire within me, one aimed specifically at reaching out to those battling eating disorders. My interest comes from my own struggles during my junior high years. I suffered from disordered eating and a crippling self-image. It was a two-year recovery, but I emerged from the darkness with an unparalleled sense of gratitude for my body and its capabilities. Excitingly so, over the past year, I’ve poured my heart into collaborating with the National Eating Disorders Association, a commitment born out of the belief that no one should suffer alone in their eating disorder. My involvement materialized through my participation in a NEDA fundraising walk at Ohio State University, and I’ve been working to bring a similar event to my own school. My ultimate goal is to extend a helping hand by teaching yoga classes at local eating disorder and mental health rehabilitation facilities. Beyond that, I have a dream of establishing my very own non-profit, one dedicated to easing the financial burdens that hinder families from accessing the treatment they so desperately need. This aspiration is fueled by a profound conviction that, through dedication, we can bring peace and hope to those who are struggling, guiding them toward a path of recovery and self-discovery.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
A piece of literature that has stuck with me ever since I read it, and absolutely changed my outlook on life, is The Yamas and Niyamas, an ancient text that I was assigned to read during my yoga teacher training. The Yamas and the Niyamas can be thought of as guidelines or gems of wisdom. There are 10 in all but I will focus on my favorite three: Nonpossessiveness, Nonexcess, and Surrender. Nonpossessiveness can be thought of as non-attachment and letting go of the outcome. It rewards us with the freedom to enjoy life and release expectations of people, events, or circumstances. Nonexcess, is just as it sounds. It allows us to stay attentive to each moment, slow down, and practice moderation. Lastly, surrender is a reminder to go with the flow. My biggest advice for putting these ideas into practice is when faced with challenges or unexpected events, approach them with an attitude of openness and acceptance rather than resistance. Avoid overindulgence in any aspect of life, whether it’s material possessions, food, or work. Seek balance and harmony in your daily activities. Cultivate mindfulness and remind yourself that true joy often emerges when you release your grip on the need for specific outcomes.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My mom has always been my biggest supporter. No matter what I wanted to do whether it was my random urge to become an Olympic ice skater when I was 12, or study music and become a rock star, she not only would sign me up for that specific thing but cheer me on the entire time. It really encouraged me as I have matured that the world really is my oyster and I am capable of so many great things.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: alyssa__contreras
Image Credits
Thomas Nguyen Chapelo Photography
