At Radiant Hot Yoga, our teachers are the heart and soul of our community, guiding students with expertise, compassion, and inspiration. Each month, we recognize one exceptional instructor who goes above and beyond to create a transformative and supportive environment for our practitioners. Our Teacher of the Month section celebrates these dedicated professionals who bring passion, wisdom, and a personal touch to every class. Join us in honoring their contributions, learning about their unique teaching journeys, and appreciating the profound impact they have on our yoga family.
Meet Hector, our inspiring Teacher of the Month at Radiant Hot Yoga. Hector’s journey into teaching began as a personal quest to deepen his practice, but it quickly transformed into a profound calling to guide others. In this interview, Hector shares the rewarding moments of witnessing student growth, the unforgettable experience of teaching his first class, and how he embodies the principles of yoga in his daily life. He offers heartfelt advice for newcomers and reflects on how the Radiant community has shaped his teaching and personal growth. Join us as we dive into Hector’s story, his passions beyond the studio, and his soul’s mission to help others become their best selves.
What inspired you to become a yoga teacher, and how did your journey begin?
I stepped foot into Radiant’s doors in 2016, 8 years ago. I was introduced to this extraordinary yoga studio, I now call my second home, by one of my best friends. At the time I was lost and had hit rock bottom in my life. Going through some of the most traumatic experiences imaginable. I took one class and cried the entire time. Happy tears. It took one class for me to turn my life around, choose myself, begin my healing journey, and choose happiness.
The encouragement and belief of fellow yoga teachers also pushed me towards Teacher Training. The feeling I felt after practicing at Radiant Hot Yoga and the passion behind the teachers words and instructions, is what made me want to become a radiant yoga teacher. I wanted to be that teacher to inspire other students who were or are in that position that I was at that time in my life.
What do you find most rewarding about teaching yoga?
I think the best way to answer this question would be with this quote:
“ Your purpose is not the thing you do… It’s the thing that happens in others when you do what you do!”
My reward being a yoga teacher is seeing what happens in others when I do what I do. The blissfulness on students faces post class, their aura of calmness, joy, their growth in certain asanas and in their hearts and lives.
Can you share a memorable teaching experience at Radiant Hot Yoga?
Oh wow haha there are so many memorable teaching experiences I have been so blessed and honored to have encountered. From seeing students stepping out of their comfort zone, also getting into that certain posture I know they worked so hard getting into, to students vocalizing vulnerability, sharing personal stories and so much more. Every class I get to teach has a memorable teaching experience and I’m honored to have that. Not one is better than the other.
How do you incorporate the principles of yoga into your daily life outside the studio?
From someone who suffers from anxiety definitely deep breathing. Practicing mindfulness, patience, non-judgment, no ego, awareness of your body, mind and emotions. The ability to “BE” be present in the moment, be here, be now.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering beginning yoga?
Get the idea of not being flexible out of your head. Just do it! Have fun! The mental, physical, emotional benefits are so rewarding. There’s nothing negative that can come out of considering taking a yoga class or beginning the yoga journey.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of yoga?
Outside of taking yoga classes at Radiant, when I’m not teaching I incorporate Pilates. I love spending time with my family and friends creating beautiful memories. Travel when I can, being outdoors and taking long walks with my dog.
What do you feel is your soul’s calling, and how does teaching at Radiant Hot Yoga fulfill this?
To continue the connection with myself and others and to just be happy in anything that I do in life. To continue to my yoga practice on and off my mat. Physical, mental, and spiritual.
