We were lucky to catch up with Lisa Collins recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Lisa, thanks for joining us today. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?
The story behind the name “To Each Is Om Yoga and Wellness” beautifully encapsulates the essence of personal journey and discovery within the practice of yoga. The inspiration came from a moment of serendipity and familial connection. I was searching for a name that truly represented the spirit and philosophy of the studio, a song titled “To Each His Own” (that’s my philosophy) by the group Faith, Hope & Charity, (recorded in 1975) played on the radio. My son, Jae, insightfully connected the song’s message to the core principle of yoga that I often shared with others: the idea that “OM” (or “Aum”) represents a divine energy that is personal and unique to each individual.
This realization led to the birth of the name “To Each Is Om,” a clever play on the song’s title that deeply resonates with the studio’s mission to honor the individual journey of each practitioner. “OM” is a sacred sound, often used in meditation as a symbol of universal consciousness. By incorporating “OM” into the name, it emphasizes my dedication to fostering a personal and profound connection to yoga and wellness for everyone, recognizing that each person’s path to wellbeing is unique.
The story behind the name highlights the importance of listening, openness to inspiration from unexpected sources, and the deep connections we share with those around us. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the perfect answer to our search comes in moments of simple, shared human experience, transforming a casual suggestion into the foundation of a brand that seeks to empower and enlighten its community through the practice of yoga and wellness.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey into the world of yoga and wellness began in New York City, back in 1996. Yoga classes were my sanctuary, even though I often found myself as the only woman of color in the room. My commitment to this path was truly tested several years ago, during a moment that shook me to my core. A severe panic and anxiety attack had me gasping for breath, trembling, and drowning in tears. It was a wake-up call, delivered unexpectedly in the back of an ambulance by a kind-hearted paramedic who reminded me of the healing powers of yoga and meditation. His advice became a beacon of light, guiding me back to my yoga mat and towards a life where stress no longer held the reins. At To Each Is Om, we pour our hearts into creating products and services that mirror the essence of care, love, and rejuvenation. Our skincare range—encompassing body butters, oils, scrubs, room sprays, and candles—is crafted to nourish your body and soul. We extend our love through Crystal Sound Bowl healing sessions, personalized yoga classes, yoga for athletes, caregivers, and corporate wellness sessions, yoga parties as well as vaginal steam services and womb wellness sessions. Our mobile pamper steam parties offer a unique blend of relaxation and bonding for up to six clients. What sets us apart is our commitment to not just the physical aspect of yoga but to empowering each individual to unlock their inner potential and embrace their journey towards wellness.
What fills me with immense pride is my relentless spirit to keep moving forward, despite the hurdles. As Lisa Collins, the heart and soul behind To Each Is Om, I carry my Bronx roots with pride, embodying the resilience and determination to chase my dreams. My life’s lessons have taught me that there are no losses, only lessons. Every day is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to further ignite the divine spark within you—your “Om.” My mission is to light up your path to wellness, guiding you to uncover the strength and peace that reside within.
Join me on this beautiful journey, and let’s embrace the power of “Om” together.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One of the most profound lessons I’ve had to embrace and continuously learn at To Each Is Om involves the art of setting boundaries. Like many, the concept of boundaries was foreign to me for the longest time. I used to think that avoiding confrontations or uncomfortable situations was the easiest path. It felt simpler to sidestep issues rather than face them head-on. However, this approach changed dramatically when I opened the studio.
The journey of establishing To Each Is Om was not just about creating a space for physical and spiritual practice; it was also a deeply personal evolution. It became clear that avoidance was not the solution—it was a temporary fix that often complicated situations further. I learned that setting clear, firm boundaries is not about pushing people away but about honoring my space, time, and energy. It’s about clarity, respect, and mutual understanding.
This realization wasn’t immediate, nor was it easy. It required introspection, acknowledgment of my limits, and the courage to communicate them effectively. It’s a lesson in self-care and respect, extending beyond personal interactions to professional boundaries with clients and team members. Through this, I discovered the power of “no” as a complete sentence and the importance of saying “yes” to what truly aligns with my values and vision for To Each Is Om.
In sharing this journey, my hope is to inspire others to recognize the importance of boundaries in their lives. It’s a gentle reminder that setting boundaries is a form of self-love and respect—a critical step toward wellness and inner peace. I encourage everyone to explore their boundaries, respect them, and communicate them with love and clarity. It’s not just about creating a safe space; it’s about fostering a culture of respect and understanding that extends into every aspect of our lives.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In June 2023, I found myself at a significant crossroads that required a heartfelt pivot in my journey. The decision to close my second yoga studio was not made lightly. It came at a time when my personal life demanded my full attention and care—stepping into the role of a full-time caregiver for my beloved mother, whose health was declining, and also becoming a part-time caregiver for my cherished grandson who has special needs. This pivot was imbued with a blend of sorrow and deep love, marking the end of an era and the beginning of another deeply personal chapter. Letting go of the physical space was a poignant moment. The act of handing over the keys symbolized not just the closure of a location but also an opening to new possibilities. What followed was nothing short of miraculous. The universe seemed to conspire to shower me with opportunities that allowed me to channel my passion for yoga and wellness into the community in ways I hadn’t imagined before.
This transition taught me the power of resilience and adaptability. It highlighted the beauty of yoga beyond the confines of a physical studio—yoga is a practice of the heart and spirit that can flourish in any setting. Embracing this shift allowed me to explore new avenues to spread the healing and transformative power of yoga, reaching more people and making a deeper impact.
This story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and change. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most challenging decisions lead to the most beautiful destinations. I believe in the journey of self-discovery and growth, even when it takes unexpected turns. My experience underscores our mission to bring yoga and wellness into the lives of others, no matter the circumstances, fostering a community of support, love, and healing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://toeachisom.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toeachisomyoga/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToEachIsOmYoga
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toeachisom/
- Twitter: www.youtube.com/@toeachisomwellness
- Other: Podcast :https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/basulisac
Image Credits
Photography Credit Jae Collins of FYI visions (Frame Your Imagination)