Episode 50 - Breathwork for Balance: Connecting Mind, Body, and Soul

Nica Bautista is a certified yoga teacher, Level 2 Reiki Practitioner, and a passionate student of human connection, currently pursuing a master's in counselling. Her yoga journey began at 19 with Body Balance, a fusion of yoga, tai chi, and Pilates, which ignited a profound connection with her body. Over time, hot yoga became a path for self-discovery, offering her tools to navigate life's challenges and deepen her awareness. She started as a Body Balance instructor in 2013, later completing her formal yoga training in 2020.

Nica’s teaching philosophy is rooted in creating a welcoming space where individuals can embrace their authentic selves, free from judgment. Through a blend of yoga, Reiki, and mindfulness, she helps others foster a deeper connection with themselves, offering the same sense of liberation and excitement that first drew her to the practice.

Behind the scenes, Nica brings her passion for connection to her role at Pilgrim Hot Yoga, where she manages the studio’s social media and events. With a background in marketing and a genuine love for building meaningful relationships, she has been part of Pilgrim from the very beginning.

Nica feels deeply connected to the studio’s growth and evolution, seeing Pilgrim as a friend that shows up in just the right way—meeting people where they are and adapting to their needs and energy. This connection fuels her drive to create experiences that bring people together, guiding them on their personal growth and transformation journeys.

In this conversation, Nica shares her transformative journey from fitness to yoga, emphasizing the profound benefits of mindfulness, self-awareness, and self-love. She discusses the importance of community support, gratitude practices, and the role of energy healing through Reiki. The dialogue also explores the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships, the significance of breathwork, and insights from Gary Vee on personal breakthroughs. Nika highlights the need for vulnerability in relationships and the importance of self-work for personal growth, while also addressing the rising loneliness in modern society.

00:00 The Journey to Mindfulness and Fitness
03:53 Understanding Yoga: Styles and Benefits
08:41 Mindfulness and Breathwork in Daily Life
13:52 Self-Love and Personal Transformation
18:33 The Power of Community and Support
23:36 Manifestation and Clarity through Journaling
28:47 Gratitude and Perspective in Life
33:30 Reiki: Energy Healing and Its Impact
38:22 Yoga Practices: Finding Your Flow
41:14 Structured Yoga and Its Benefits
42:12 Understanding Chakras and Energy Centers
44:08 Overcoming Personal Challenges in Yoga
46:30 Tapping into Chakras for Self-Discovery
49:53 Breathwork Techniques for Mindfulness
54:29 Insights from Gary Vee's Seminar
01:00:58 The Importance of Connection and Community
01:04:54 Finding Your Inner Spark
01:09:22 Navigating Male Vulnerability
01:16:04 The Role of Partners in Emotional Support
01:21:15 Future Aspirations and Retreat Plans