Thrive Guide

Lauren Ikeda

About

As a 200 E-RYT and YACEP Yoga Teacher, Lauren’s unique approach teaches the key philosophies of yoga to not just do yoga, but more importantly to live yoga. She moves beyond the commercialization of the practice to honor its lineage as a means to connect authentically to yourse...
As a 200 E-RYT and YACEP Yoga Teacher, Lauren’s unique approach teaches the key philosophies of yoga to not just do yoga, but more importantly to live yoga. She moves beyond the commercialization of the practice to honor its lineage as a means to connect authentically to yourself and between yourself and others.

Through embodied movement practices such as yoga asana and mindful movement, she encourages her students to be present in their own experiences through a somatic (self-sensing) approach. Using those experiences as a starting point, we can learn how to live more skillfully.

Since 2013, she has worked with a wide spectrum of students from beginners to professional athletes, ages 8 to 84. She emphasizes the importance of function over form as yoga is for everyone and everybody.

Lauren was born and raised in Southern California and from a young age had the privilege of traveling the world, where she learned the importance of appreciating different cultures and perspectives.

Since 2017 she has led retreats both domestically and internationally, combining her love of yoga & mindfulness, relationship building, and adventure.

She believes the only way to see change is to be change; first you listen, then you understand, then you take action. Lauren is inspired by travel, nature, her husband and dog, and people being authentically themselves.
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We are all a work in progress.
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Retreat Specialties

To me leading retreats is so much more than traveling to beautiful destinations around the world, enjoying great food and experiences. Yes, all of those things are great, but beyond that I emphasize the value of self-discovery through the lens of yoga and mindfulness, personal experience, learning from different cultures and perspectives, and building relationships.

Teaching Specialties

Students can expect me to be authentic and relatable in my approach, inclusive in my teaching style, and practical when it comes to application of yoga asana and philosophy.

What are your favorite Retreat Venues around the world

- Locanda Del Gallo in Umbria, Italy - I loved the rustic elegance of being in the countryside of Italy. The amazing food fresh from their garden, sweeping views, and intimate feel. The owners Paola and Irish made us feel like we were part of the family. My now husband even proposed on the last day of the retreat. The entire staff was in on it, which made the experience even more special. - Aegalis Hotel & Spa in Amorgos, Greece - The remote location, 7 yoga shalas, beautiful ocean and hillside views, gorgeous pool, and hospitality make this retreat destination at the top of my list.

What's your personal definition of what it means to thrive?

To me the word "thrive" gives off a connotation that you have it all figured out. Truthfully, I don't think anyone has it all figured out. We are all just trying to do the best we can with the information we have. I think the word "thrive" means that you don't have it all figured out and you have accepted that. I think that is even better than having it all figured out because it means you continue being curious, asking questions, learning and growing.

Who do you look up to ? Who has helped you the most along your teacher / retreat leader journey?

So many teachers, mentors and peers have helped to shape me on a personal and professional level. I would like to acknowledge yoga teachers who I have had the pleasure of learning from either up close or from afar such as Jessica Paquette, Natasha Needles, Trina Altman, Tiffany Cruikshank, Alexandra Crow, Kathryn Budig, Maty Ezraty, Orlee Klempner, and D'Andre Clayton. I would also like to acknowledge individuals such as Gail Barnett and Amanda Dykann who have helped me along my path as a retreat leader.
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