Conversations with the Inspiring Nasirah Denisse Gaines

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nasirah Denisse Gaines.

Nasirah Denisse, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My story begins in a little town, beside the ocean, in a place far, far away place… no, I’m kidding. I’m a kidder… but seriously, I was introduced to yoga through an afterschool program my daughter was taking. It made sense to “be still” and “to breathe mindfully, intentionally.” The benefits of connecting breathing to movement which elevates my mind and spirit made sense to me. I began to understand that YOGA was whole health and it challenged me mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually at a time that I needed some healing.

Fast forward, I fell in love with the practice of yoga and its benefits. I could see the changes in my physique and mentality. I pursued my yoga teacher credentials (RYT) because it became imperative to me to share this wonder with others, to help them on their whole health journeys. I teach yoga at schools, in fitness studios, for businesses, and in private homes assisting with private practices–basically, anywhere I am welcomed because this kind of (self) work/healing is needed.

Has it been a smooth road?
Has it been a smooth road? Well, it hasn’t been hard. Hard is relative. It’s a matter of perspective. Here’s how I see it. Everything that I’ve been through has been a part of my journey, my path. My path is not the same as yours. Nor is your path as mine. My path is what has made me who I am and put me here at this place. I understand that each step of it was necessary for me to be and continue to become me. Nothing that I’ve been handed in life has been to break me. It’s only been to sharpen me. Flowers grow because of rain. Gold takes shape by fire. So, I too have to be put through things in order to be “refined.” I have to “ebb and flow” with life’s peaks and valleys. That’s living. And that’s yoga too. Breathing, grounding, moving through the asanas (poses), adjusting, being fluid, strengthening and stretching (mind, body, and spirit). That’s life.

My advice to other women is:
1. Get to know yourself–Self-acceptance is key—your feelings, your features, strengths, and weaknesses. All of you is completely acceptable (but continuously work on your flaws). Spend time alone to learn to appreciate your own company.
2. Create your boundaries–Create your boundaries and understand what you want and need (and know the difference between the two).
3. Accept the fact that change is inevitable–The only thing you can depend on is change. You will change and everything around you will change (for the better or worse). Your thoughts, feelings, and ideas are fleeting. Your people, your circumstances will not stay the same. Therefore, be ready to ebb and flow with those changes as your boundaries so dictate (see number two).

What do you do? What do you specialize in?
I’m a yoga teacher. I enjoy various styles of yoga–including yin, vinyasa, and power–but I specialize in creating a practice specific to my clients’ needs. My clients say they really like the personable attention I give to their whole health/goals and the tone of my voice (specifically during savasana).

Additionally, I’m an educator. I teach 7th grade. For me, it’s about improving the world one student (and client) at a time. I was awarded last year’s Teacher of the Year! It’s an accomplishment that makes me very humble yet proud. There would be no other profession without teachers. My passion is what sets me apart…I teach, what’s your superpower?

Do you feel like there was something about the experiences you had growing up that played an outsized role in setting you up for success later in life?
Absolutely! I’m successful because of the gifts my mother gave me. Her migrating to the U.S. from Panama and escaping an abusive marriage gave me courage and determination. Her divorcing my father and driving across the country on her own to give her and I a new start taught me self-love and focus. She acquired her master’s degree and became an accountant for a major corporation. That gave me vision, drive and my dedication to education, She’s my example, advisor and cheerleader. And of course, I have to give a shout out to my awesome husband and our kids for their continued support and love.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @yoga.denisse

Image Credit:
Prudence Rufus, Shawn Ware, Febury Hassan, Jerome Gaines, Nielah Harris, random stranger

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