We were lucky to catch up with Elma Panagaki recently and have shared our conversation below.
Elma, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
Moving from Greece to Los Angeles was undoubtedly the biggest risk I’ve ever taken. I arrived with no plan, no job, and no experience of the US, but from the moment I set foot in LA, I felt an inexplicable sense of belonging, especially when I first saw the vastness of the ocean.
The initial years were tough. I started from scratch, teaching donation-based yoga classes where some days, I had no students at all. Simultaneously, I sent out over a thousand resumes in a single month and immersed myself in as many teacher trainings as possible. It was a relentless pursuit to establish myself in a completely new environment.
The biggest lesson I learned throughout this journey is that with risk-taking and perseverance, the sky truly is the limit. Despite the challenges and moments of uncertainty, I never gave up. Slowly but steadily, my dedication began to pay off. I witnessed my dream of becoming a respected yoga instructor in Los Angeles start to materialize.
Today, reflecting on those early days, I am grateful for every obstacle and every leap of faith that brought me here. It wasn’t just about moving countries; it was about transforming a vision into reality through hard work and unwavering belief in myself. Los Angeles became not just a city but a place where I found my path and turned my passion into a thriving career.
Elma, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hello everyone, I’m Elma, originally from Athens, Greece, where I was born and raised. My journey into the world of movement and yoga began early on—I started dancing ballet at the tender age of three and pursued it to a professional level. It was during this time that I developed a deep appreciation for discipline, grace, and the transformative power of physical practice.
At the age of 18, I discovered yoga, and it completely changed my life’s trajectory. This profound practice became not just a physical exercise but a holistic journey towards inner peace and well-being. I immersed myself in yoga wholeheartedly, eventually becoming a certified 500-hour yoga teacher, as well as a Pilates and barre instructor. Over the years, I’ve accumulated extensive training in Ashtanga yoga, pranayama, prenatal yoga, and progressing ballet technique, enriching my teaching with diverse modalities and insights.
Currently, I teach at multiple gyms and studios in the vibrant South Bay area, where I also offer private sessions tailored to individual needs. Additionally, I co-host international yoga retreats alongside Sabrina Mata, providing transformative experiences in stunning locations that blend relaxation with deep spiritual practice.
Beyond teaching, I’m actively involved in the fitness community, organizing popular events and collaborating with major sponsors to promote health and wellness. You can catch glimpses of my journey and insights on my Instagram @elma_yoga, where I share tips, inspirations, and moments from my practice.
What sets my approach apart is a fusion of my ballet background’s precision and the mindful, holistic philosophy of yoga. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals can explore their physical potential while cultivating mental clarity and emotional balance.
I take immense pride in empowering my students to discover their inner strength and resilience through movement and mindfulness. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, I invite you to join me on a journey of self-discovery and holistic wellness. Together, let’s explore the transformative power of movement and yoga to enrich our lives.
Have you ever had to pivot?
My career journey took a significant pivot when I transitioned from being an advertising manager at prestigious magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, Esquire, Playboy, and Madame Figaro to becoming a yoga instructor. Despite the glamour associated with my job title, I found myself feeling unfulfilled and increasingly stressed by the demands of the corporate world.
During this time, yoga became my sanctuary—a practice that not only provided physical relief but also a deeper sense of peace and clarity. I began sharing my yoga journey on social media, posting photos and insights that resonated with others. Unexpectedly, local yoga studios started reaching out to me, expressing interest in having me teach classes.
Despite having no formal training in teaching yoga, the idea of guiding others through their practice resonated deeply with me. One particularly stressful day at the office pushed me to reevaluate my path. I made a spontaneous decision to leave behind my career in advertising, seeking solace at the beach where I spent hours windsurfing and reflecting on my next steps.
It was during this soul-searching period that I realized my true calling: to become a yoga instructor. Without hesitation, I enrolled in my first yoga teacher training program—a decision that would prove to be the turning point in my life. The training not only equipped me with the necessary skills to teach but also reaffirmed my passion for yoga and helping others discover its transformative benefits.
Since then, becoming a yoga instructor has not only been a career change but a profound personal journey. It has allowed me to align my professional life with my values and passions, providing me with a sense of purpose that I had been yearning for. I’ve discovered fulfillment in guiding students through their yoga practice, witnessing firsthand the positive impact it has on their well-being and lives.
This journey has taught me invaluable lessons in courage, resilience, and the importance of listening to one’s inner voice. I am grateful every day for having had the courage to make that leap of faith towards a more meaningful and fulfilling career. It’s a reminder that when you follow your heart and pursue what truly inspires you, you can find your purpose in this world.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
In addition to training and knowledge, I firmly believe that authenticity and passion are fundamental to succeeding in the field of yoga instruction. When you approach everything you do with genuine passion and a sincere heart, you create a connection that goes beyond words. Students can feel your authenticity, and that builds trust and respect.
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is not to try to emulate others but to embrace my uniqueness. We all bring something special to our teaching—our own experiences, perspectives, and personalities. That uniqueness is what makes our teaching beautiful and impactful. When you let your true self shine through, you attract students who resonate with your approach and teaching style.
It’s also crucial to make choices that align with your values and bring you fulfillment. This includes the classes you teach, the workshops you offer, and the communities you build. When you make decisions that you’re proud of and that resonate with your heart, you wake up every morning feeling excited about the day ahead.
Lastly, continuous self-reflection and growth are essential. As yoga instructors, we have the privilege of guiding others on their yoga journey. This requires ongoing learning, refining our skills, and staying open to new perspectives and techniques. It’s a journey of evolution both personally and professionally.
In essence, success in yoga instruction isn’t just about what you know or how skilled you are—it’s about how authentically you connect with others, how passionately you share your practice, and how purposefully you live your values. When you embody these principles, you not only inspire your students but also cultivate a fulfilling and meaningful career.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elmayoga.com
- Instagram: @elma_yoga
Image Credits
Photos by @aphotothatfitz & @iq_artwork