We were lucky to catch up with Joya Santarelli recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Joya thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.

I had just started my career as a litigator in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was a difficult balance between a successful law career and being a wife and mom to two young boys. But, I was making it work…somehow. Out of nowhere, I started experiencing physical and mental symptoms that seemed to appear out of no where. Little things…brain fog, numbness/tingling in fingers and toes and extreme fatigue. I followed my gut and advocated for myself in spite of what doctors told me was likely nothing. A multiple sclerosis diagnosis soon followed. This was a defining moment in my professional and personal life.

I didn’t realize it at the time, but this diagnosis has turned out to be one of the biggest blessings in my life. It has, without a doubt, made me stronger both physically and mentally. Upon the advice of my neurologist, I started a consistent yoga practice, which ultimately led to becoming a certified yoga instructor and yoga studio owner.

In addition, realizing you have a chronic health condition serves as a blessing if you allow it. It brings you a sense of vulnerability that helps you truly realize that time is fleeting. I have truly been able to live in the moment and not push things to the back burner. Travel Often. Love Hard. Be with those I love. Soak it all in. Live this Beautiful Life.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Santosha Yoga is a movement that started organically on a patch of grass in my backyard (quite literally). It was the summer of 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic and also a time of great civil unrest in my community of Kenosha, Wisconsin. Some may think that it was onto an opportune time to start a new business, but I believe it turned out to be THE best time, especially for the type of community that was forming.

I started slow. Posting on social media when I decided to teach a class in my backyard. They came. And they came and they just kept coming. Droves of people of all ages and backgrounds came to learn how to practice yoga. People needed something to be able to give them hope during a time of confusion, sadness and despair. Yoga gave them that hope.

What sets Santosha Yoga apart is the inclusive, welcoming vibe. All are welcome. Regardless of background, size, shape, ability. Everyone is encouraged to come as they are.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

My personality. Without a doubt. While I am no where near a perfect person (nor do I strive to be), I am honest and real. What you see is truly what you get (this becomes more and more evident as I grow older). I am comfortable with who I am, the good and the bad. And I am ok being vulnerable. These attributes have helped me succeed as both a yoga instructor and studio owner because people can sense that I am not there to simply sell a product. I believe in what I say and am not peddling bs. You get what you get and there is nothing phony about it. I think it’s rare to find that in any business, regardless of what it is.

I genuinely like meeting new people and learning from them. I like to help people achieve their best and grow. I strive to see the best in everyone and love helping others realize their true potential.

Any advice for managing a team?

Being honest with people is so important. I have always stood by the idea that we can’t simply tell people what they want to hear. To help others grow in their field, it’s essential to be honest with them regarding both their strengths and weaknesses. People will work hard if they know they are appreciated. Consistently showing people through words, actions and experiences (doesn’t have to be anything grand), helps them know they are valued and essential members of the team.

I have never had the belief that I am better than anyone else and I strive to constantly learn from others. Every encounter with another human being can teach you something.

Contact Info:

• Website: Mysantoshayoga.com
• Instagram: @mysantoshayoga
• Facebook: Santosha Yoga