Q&A with yoga studio owner Paula Le Dao

Q&A with yoga studio owner Paula Le Dao

Awesome new yoga studio Union Station Yoga opened earlier this month in Clapham Common, so we caught up with owner Paula Le Dao to find out why we need to get down there, pronto!

Q. How did you get into yoga?

A. I was introduced to yoga by my best friend. It took me a few years to develop a regular practice, but once I found a teacher that inspired and challenged me on a deeper level, I was hooked.

Q. What is it that you love about yoga?

A. My yoga practice is my time to connect with myself. In my experience, the more I know and understand myself, the more empathy, understanding and kindness I can share with others and the world.

Q. What made you decide to set up your own studio?

A. When I moved to London (from Vancouver, Canada), I almost immediately noticed the need for more connection and community in this big, busy city. A year ago, I was working on my five-year goals and exploring the next step in my career, and a few things became clear: I wanted to start my own business, I had a strong desire to make a difference in our local and global community and I am passionate about sharing yoga. A dream was born!

Q. Where did the name Union Station Yoga come from?

A. It came from a brainstorming session with a good friend of mine who was helping me build my brand identity. In its most basic form, the word yoga translates as the ‘union’ of body, mind and spirit. The word ‘station’ represents a place of gathering and seemed very fitting in a city full of train stations. Ultimately, it is a place for people to come together and connect with both themselves and each other.

Q. What will Union Station specialise in?

A. We will be offering vinyasa classes in a range of different styles. Students can expect a welcoming environment, passionate people and life-changing yoga. Our motto is ‘move your body, still your mind’ and that’s what you can count on us for.

Q. Will you be teaching?

A. Yes! I have just recently completed my 200-Hour Training and will definitely be teaching at the studio. At the beginning my main focus will be setting up the business side but I am extremely excited to teach eventually.

Q. What do you do besides yoga to stay fit?

A. I get my cardio in by either going for a run around Clapham Common or by going for a spin at Psycle (Rhian’s class is one of my favourites). My boyfriend is also a personal trainer so I never really have an excuse to skip a workout.

Q. What’s your favourite healthy meal?

A. Ohhh, tough one. I am loving the Hemsley & Hemsley cookbook at the moment. I’ve been learning about the benefits of bone broth so I’ve been trying lots of recipes with that. I also just made a Thai noodle salad with cabbage, carrots, red peppers and a homemade peanut and lime dressing.

Q. What’s your favourite cheat treat?
A. Chocolate! At home, I’ll have a few pieces of dark chocolate with sea salt after dinner. If we’re out for a nice meal, I struggle to say no to a sticky toffee pudding.

Q. What’s your favourite piece of yoga kit?

A. My go-to yoga staple is definitely my Lululemon Wunder Unders. Also, the Lululemon (Un) Mat is the best yoga mat for commuting around town.

For more information on Union Station Yoga, visit unionstationyoga.co.uk

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