Tara was initially recruited to run at Yale University, but after an early injury, she took her first yoga class and never looked back. She feels strongly about human connection, and especially loves the Nola Yoga Loft “Vinyasa & Vino” class where everyone enjoys a glass of wine after the class. You might be surprised to find out the best thing in her fridge right now and where the yummy ingredients are from! Keep reading for more about Tara.
What is your WHY?
Teaching is such a huge gift for me. I would venture to say that each time I teach I get just as much out of the class as any of the students do. Each time it grounds me and reminds me why I’m here. I also feel pretty strongly that we need more human connection in our increasingly tech-based world, so I love incorporating socials in with the studio classes. We have a weekly Vinyasa & Vino class, and it’s always been my favorite one to teach or attend. We yoga flow and then let the wine flow!
How did you first get into fitness?
I don’t really know my life without fitness. I grew up in a very active family and played all kinds of sports growing up. I started taking gymnastics and ballet when I was two – so grateful for that! When I was 6, my mother said I could get my ears pierced if I could run a mile and half without stopping. I had gone on runs with her before, even at that age, so she knew it was a bit of a stretch for me because I would always make her stop and walk. But sure enough, I ran that mile and half (and got my ears pierced!)… and I guess I just never stopped. I ran through high school and was recruited to run at Yale University, where I promptly got injured and took my first yoga class!
What’s the best health/wellness advice you’ve ever received that has actually helped?
You can do anything you put your mind to.
What’s your favorite workout to do when you’re not teaching?
The full Ashtanga Primary Series is by far my favorite workout. Besides yoga, I run every once in a while, but yoga is my jam.
What’s the last song you listened to on Spotify (or iTunes, Pandora, etc.)?
Be Careful by Cardi B. My sister literally just recommended it to me before I sat down to write this.
Best thing in your fridge right now?
The homemade Indian curry I made last night. I used spices I brought back from India, and it’s vegan, so my conscious is happy as well.
Go-to pre or post-workout snack?
Of course it’s the post-workout glass of wine. Or Juan’s. Always Juan’s (a delicious burrito joint here in New Orleans). I usually try not to eat before I workout.
Go-to morning beverage(s)?
Bialetti coffee. It’s basically a huge espresso. I first started drinking coffee in the Dominican Republic and that’s how they make coffee there. <3
Favorite splurge meal/dessert?
My mother’s southern cooking – fried okra, sauteed squash, homemade cornbread… oh and her homemade chocolate pie is like crack!
Where do you get your health/wellness information? (blog, website, podcast, etc.)
I don’t really have a go-to source. People share all kinds of things with me, and I just read what comes my way. My Reiki teacher always gives me good homeopathic healing advice as well.
If this wasn’t your job, what would be your job?
Actually, even though I still own the yoga studio, I also work in real estate now. But I think I would love to be a psychologist, social worker, or life coach. I love listening to people, offering advice, and trying to work through the intricate webs of life together.
Favorite way to unwind after a long day/week?
If I’m feeling social, dinner or drinks with friends. If not, a long walk and cuddles with my sweet dog will do the trick!