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Meet Tara! Tara is originally from Nelson but is proud to call Kelowna home. She enjoys practicing yoga outdoors with her fellow yogis and spending some quality time with her friends & family.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I grew up in Nelson but Kelowna has always been a second home. I used to stay with my grandparents here every spring break and summer and eventually moved here when I was 19. I’ve traveled and lived other places since but Kelowna has always been home.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Oh, I don’t have just one. I am blessed with an abundance of family members that are actually best friends. My man and his 6-year-old because they keep things playful and full of love and my yoga students because they fill my cup every day!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Okanagan Lifestyle. Love their brand and what they stand for, their community involvement, their love & positivity, and rad clothing!
Describe yourself in one word.
LOVE
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I’m currently in Croatia, hosting a sailing and yoga retreat.. this place is unreal. I would be right here.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Outdoor yoga classes with our amazing yoga community!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Nobody needs to hear that story, haha only a few know and I think it’s best it stays that way 🤣
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
There is not just one time but I think the most inspired I get is when something feels completely energetically aligned. Whether it be with another human or something in life just lines up perfectly in a way that it feels like my highest visions and manifestations have come to fruition.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Ahh yes.. camping with my grandparents in the summers at Herald Park. We used to stay there for a month, as they were camp hosts. Our days were filled with hiking the trails to an epic waterfall, rollerblading down what my grandparents called “cardiac hill”, playing Yahtzee and Rumy, “boy hunting” 🙊...we were so busy.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
My main focus over the years has been giving back to a community I am very close with in Nicaragua. There is a beautiful volunteer program set up by a man named Monty from Kamloops who has created some really special offerings there. I am always open to help in any way our community needs as well if you’ve got any ideas or would like me to volunteer my time to teach a fundraising class for your cause, get at me :)
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
The way that kids (well and anyone really) have to deal with societal pressures these days. It’s gotten out of hand. We all need to step up, love each other through our struggles and just do our part by being a kind human as often as possible!
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
There are some beautiful little hidden gems on Knox Mountain that are so peaceful. A good hike and to sit by the lake is the best way to clear the mind.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see more assistance for the homeless. There are a ton of drug and mental illness issues and I think we can do better with more funding and programs that offer proper care that will help get to the root of people’s issues that are keeping them stuck. Seems this world has become so used to creating a quick fix or a bandaid for real trauma and we are not trying to get to the root cause that will continue to create struggle if not dealt with properly.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
When I think of Kelowna, the first word that comes up is VIBRANCY. Our community LOVES our community. We support our small businesses. We embrace our beautiful weather and get out and active. We have a ton of motivated entrepreneurs living their dreams!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Eventually, host a 200hr Yoga Teacher Training - I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned over the years to new and upcoming yogi’s looking to create positive shifts in the world!
- Create a family. I’ve always been meant to be a mama.
- Become a pro at salsa dancing!
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I can be a bit spicy. I love fully with no judgments.. but the one thing I will not stand for is disrespect. I will not hold back in expressing my feelings about it 🤷🏽♀️
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
I am most active on Instagram @blissedoutyoga
What is the name of your business/organization?
I have two: Blissed Out Yoga is my retreat biz. Blissed Out Lifestyle is my online business in Self Development.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I am extremely passionate about self-growth. I believe we can break down the barriers that hold us back from living our life fully and both of these businesses are a way that I can offer what I’ve learned through my own trials and tribulations.
What is the goal of your business?
My intention in any of my offerings really comes down to human connection. Teaching people through my own experiences and continuing to learn along the way, staying open to growth and spreading love, positivity, and lessons along the way.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Discipline. It’s been the one thing that has held me back in some situations because I am a YES girl. I used to say yes to everything but I am learning my boundaries and where my energy is most beneficially spent.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
As much as some choices have not fully served me, they’ve always taught me. I wouldn’t change anything because the lessons have been invaluable.
What do you always find yourself saying?
You do you, boo.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"If there is anything at any time that feels like a magnetic pull or a fire in your soul, FOLLOW THAT. Despite the fear or the challenge that comes along with taking action. Take it!"
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I would have a whole day party with all of my friends and family... does that count?? It’s so hard to get everyone all in one place at the same time so that would be epic.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
We have the most amazing local businesses. Not only is it important in building community connection and economy but you’ll most likely get better quality ingredients and materials too! Win Win.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
I would have to say my retreats. I started knowing absolutely nothing about hosting retreats and just followed my “yes” inside of me along the way. It’s wild the series of events that follow when you just trust and take action towards your passions.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My mom, my aunties, and my grandma! They are some strong women with fiercely loving hearts, completely selfless and so incredibly beautiful in every way. I aspire to be like them as a role model for my kids.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Nikki Jinks - she has started CityYogaX in Kelowna which offers pay-what-you-can yoga around the city and it has been an amazing offering and success! You rock Nikki! ❤️
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
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