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That's right, for a long time, I despised the taste of tea,

 

... much like I disliked many aspects of myself. Negative self-talk, not of my own creation, echoed incessantly. To cope, I sought solace in numbing activities - partying, alcohol, toxic relationships, and over exertion. Anything to avoid slowing down, as the prospect of stillness often led to a crash into the depths of depression. I'd endure burnout, crumble, put myself back together, only to repeat the cycle endlessly.

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Then, one day, I reached a breaking point. Fed up with my own self-sabotage, avoidance of self-reflection, and the failure to discover my authentic self, I decided enough was enough. A single yoga class became my turning point, a rebirth. Leaving the class, I noticed a bird outside my window - a scene that had been there before, but I was usually too consumed by turbulent thoughts to appreciate it until stillness allowed me to see what I had been missing.

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This is why I believe in the significance of that initial step - the moment when you decide to take control of your life and steer it toward your chosen direction. It's a painfully beautiful moment when you choose to reconnect with your most authentic self.

My first step led to others, propelling me into a journey of self-discovery. I fell deeply head over heels in love, both literally and figuratively, immersing myself in all things wellness. Embracing yoga, I wanted to dive deeper into understanding its true essence.

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In the pursuit of "perfecting" my practice, I realized I had missed the point entirely. Yoga isn't about achieving perfection; it's a perpetual practice because each day, we and our bodies are different. Yoga isn't just a series of poses; it's life played out on your mat.

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In 2012, I left everything behind for a month-long intensive Teacher Training in Costa Rica, earning my 200 Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) certification. This marked the beginning of my learning journey. I became a recognized Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) and opened a successful yoga studio from 2014 to 2016, fostering a warm and inviting community.

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Expanding my knowledge, I pursued Therapeutic Thai Yoga Bodywork training in 2015 and Yin Yoga training in 2016. In 2021, I became a Holy Fire® Reiki Master Teacher (RMT), followed by completing a Positive Psychology Health and Well-Being Coach training in 2022, meeting National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) requirements for National Board Certification as a Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). In 2023, I earned my 500 RYT through Yoga Medicine® and completed an undergrad in Psychology with a focus on mental health. In 2024, I concluded my 50 hour Yin Yoga training with Bernie Clark as well as my training in Brainspotting, seamlessly integrating this innovative neuro-somatic therapy into our array of modalities.

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Currently enrolled in graduate school to become a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I reflect on a 15-year journey in health, wellness, and well-being, with over a decade of teaching experience. While the negative self-talk may persist, I've learned to respond with grace, curiosity, and acceptance, and can finally say—I F**KING LOVE MYSELF.

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Allow me to be your guide on this transformative journey, holding space for all your perfectly imperfect parts. Let me help you find the light when darkness descends. I'm here, ready whenever you are.

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Rest in Your Radiance,

 

Nicole Starr