We recently connected with Erica Balk and have shared our conversation below.

Erica, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

At the age of 25, I found myself standing at the pinnacle of my career dreams. I had climbed the corporate ladder within a company I had devoted years to, and I had finally landed the coveted role of a manager. It was a position I had aspired to reach, a symbol of success and achievement. Little did I know that this milestone would mark the beginning of a profound journey of self-discovery and a daring leap into the unknown.

As the manager, I quickly realized the immense responsibilities that came with the role. The job demanded an extraordinary amount of time and energy, and my work/life balance began to tip dangerously in favor of the former. The once-thrilling prospect of being at the helm of the company began to feel like a heavy burden, and the mounting workload started taking a toll on my well-being.

The breaking point came when the realization struck that the career path I had meticulously paved for myself was not aligning with my long-term vision for a fulfilling life. Burnt out and overwhelmed, I knew I had to make a pivotal decision for my own well-being. In a bold move, I decided to step down from the managerial position, a choice that felt like a leap into the unknown.

With newfound time on my hands, I embarked on a journey of self-reflection and healing. Over the course of the next year, I sought solace in yoga studios, searching for a sanctuary to restore my balance and reconnect with my true self. It was during these yoga classes that a profound realization dawned upon me – my passion for yoga was not just a means of personal recovery but a calling to share this transformative practice with others.

Embracing this newfound purpose, I made the courageous decision to become a yoga teacher. It was a complete departure from the corporate world, but the prospect of guiding others toward physical and mental well-being resonated deeply with me. The transition from a high-stakes managerial role to the serene world of yoga teaching was not without challenges, but the rewards were immeasurable.

Today, as a yoga teacher, I find fulfillment in helping others discover their own paths to balance and harmony. The risk of abandoning a secure, but unfulfilling career for the uncertainty of a passion-driven life was undoubtedly daunting, but it led me to a place where my work aligns with my values, and every day feels like a step towards personal and professional fulfillment.

Erica, 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?

I’m delighted to share my journey and the enriching experiences that come with my deep-rooted passion for holistic wellness. As a dedicated yoga instructor, my journey began in the corporate world, managing the intricate demands of the professional realm. However, my quest for a more balanced and purposeful life led me to a transformative path.

In addition to being a certified yoga instructor, my passion extends to the realm of kids’ yoga. Guiding the younger generation through playful and interactive sessions, I believe in instilling the seeds of mindfulness and well-being from an early age. Witnessing the joy and curiosity in children as they discover the benefits of yoga is truly heartwarming.

But that’s not where my journey ends. I am also a certified Reiki practitioner, and this practice holds a special place in my heart. It has been a pivotal part of my personal wellness journey, and I’m fueled by a deep passion to share its transformative benefits with others. Through Reiki sessions, I offer a holistic approach to healing, addressing both the physical and energetic aspects of well-being.

My unique combination of expertise in yoga, specializing in both adults and children, and Reiki allows me to provide a comprehensive approach to holistic wellness. I am committed to creating inclusive and transformative experiences for individuals of all ages, promoting not only physical health but also emotional and energetic balance.

Something I am most proud of is the work I do directly here in my local community. I have been able to connect with individuals, groups, my local yoga studio, schools and more to bring the practice of yoga and reiki together. My intention is to continue connecting with clients who are specifically looking for ways to balance their energy and find calming practices.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One of the most defining moments of resilience in my journey occurred right after I obtained my yoga teaching certification. It was an exhilarating achievement, a culmination of dedication and hard work. Little did I know that the universe had an unexpected challenge in store for me – the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent shutdowns.

Initially, the news felt like a crushing blow. The excitement of completing my training was overshadowed by uncertainty, and I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of where to turn or how to proceed in such unprecedented times. Instead of succumbing to defeat, I made a conscious decision to adapt and persevere.

Undeterred by the limitations of physical distancing, I turned to the virtual world. Online platforms became my makeshift studio, where I began offering yoga classes to anyone seeking solace and connection. Determined to share the transformative power of yoga, I also took my teachings to local parks, inviting friends and family to join me in the practice.

Persistently, I navigated the challenges of the digital landscape, realizing that resilience wasn’t just about bouncing back, but also about finding new ways to thrive in adversity. Amidst the uncertainties, a glimmer of opportunity emerged in 2021 when I discovered Restore Yoga + Wellness, a local yoga studio in St. Clairsville, OH.

Stepping into Restore Yoga + Wellness felt like finding a sanctuary. The community there embraced me, and I immediately sensed a profound sense of home. The resilience that carried me through the uncertainties of the pandemic brought me to a place where I could not only continue my yoga journey but also contribute to the well-being of others.

Today, I am grateful to still be teaching at Restore Yoga + Wellness, where the spirit of resilience has not only defined my journey but has become an integral part of the shared experience we cultivate in our community. This chapter is a testament to the power of persistence, adaptability, and the unwavering belief that even in the face of challenges, there’s always an opportunity for growth and a new beginning.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

While training and knowledge undoubtedly lay the foundation for success in my field, I firmly believe that compassion and gratitude are equally pivotal, if not more so. In the world of yoga and holistic wellness, it’s not just about mastering postures or understanding anatomy; it’s about connecting with individuals on a profound level.

Compassion serves as the cornerstone of my approach. The ability to empathize and understand the unique journeys of each person on the mat fosters a sense of trust and openness. Whether teaching adults or guiding children, compassion allows me to create a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their physical and emotional well-being without judgment.

Gratitude, on the other hand, is a driving force that propels me forward. It’s about appreciating the opportunity to share the transformative power of yoga and Reiki with others. Each class, each interaction, is a chance to make a positive impact on someone’s life. Expressing gratitude for these moments not only fuels my passion but also instills a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the work I do.

In the field of holistic wellness, success extends beyond physical achievements. It’s about cultivating an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported in their personal journeys. Compassion and gratitude are the threads that weave together the fabric of connection, creating a space for growth, healing, and the shared celebration of each small triumph on the path to well-being.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.energywitherica.com
• Instagram: energywitherica
• Facebook: Energy with Erica
• Youtube: Energy with Erica
• Other: You can also find me as a DJ for OVDJ Productions. My husband is a musician with a passion for bringing the community together. We formed a collective of DJs who put on local events to celebrate and have fun. You can follow us on instagram @ovdjproductions

Image Credits
Studio C Fine Art Photography AR Designs Photography