Complete Mind, Body and Soul Transformation

Melissa Lavell Start Date: Nov 23, 2014 - End Date: Mar 22, 2015
  • Leadership/Training Program
  • Professional Development
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Nosara, Costa Rica

My Travel Story

by: Melissa Lavell Start Date: Nov 23, 2014 - End Date: Mar 22, 2015
  • Leadership/Training Program
  • Professional Development
  • Educational/Research Trip
For 24 years, I was a creature of habit; nestled uncomfortably between my parents' expectations and my desire to create the life I always thought I was meant to live. I always did what I was told, never asked for more than I should and flew under the radar; always envious of my bold and daring older sister, my close knit group of extrovert friends and those around me who got the attention and recognition I so desperately wanted. 

Now, it's my turn. In the last two years, I have completely transformed my life. I began working with a life coach weeks before my 25th birthday. She helped me see I am enough and I am capable of achieving anything I dream of. 

For 8 years, my passion has been Yoga. In college it helped me calm my nerves, quell feelings of anxiety and stress and help me build strength - both mentally and physically. It has been the one constant thing in my life that has challenged me, changed me, frustrated me, yet also made me feel strong, capable, happy and alive. 

Currently, I practice at a studio called YogaStream in Princeton, NJ and have cultivated my love of Yoga into more than just a daily practice. I've become a certified Children's Yoga teacher and have begun sharing my love of yoga with children in my town as well as in my classroom. I am a fifth grade special education teacher and have found that bringing Yoga in to the classroom has increased my students ability to focus and maintain attention to tasks as well as decrease stress and anxiety. 

Yoga works. I believe in it. I live and breathe it and I want to further my practice, knowledge and skill set so that I can continue to share my passion with my students, friends, family and community.

The opportunity to obtain my 200 Hour Yoga Alliance certification arose a few months ago when it was advertised at my studio, however I didn't think it was possible because of the price. With my current teacher salary and infintesimal yoga teacher salary, I am unable to make this dream a reality. 

Normally, trainings are held during the school year; this particular training is during the summer months when I have off of school and can focus on what will no doubt be a full mind, body and soul transformation. 

There is no doubt in my mind that this is what I am meant to do and this is where I am meant to be in my life. I will continue to work hard, save as much money as I can to make this dream happen, but I can't do it alone.

Thank you for taking the time to read my posting. I thank you in advance for any assitance you can provide - big or small. 

Love and light,

Melissa
  • Nosara, Costa Rica

More Travel Information