Daily Inspiration: Meet Thomas Taubman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Thomas Taubman.

Hi Thomas, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born and raised in Staten Island, New York, with my three brothers and one sister.

From a young age, I was introduced to the world of movement, and I quickly realized its incredible power. Sports became not just a pastime but a genuine passion that allowed me to channel my energy in a positive and productive way. This outlet became an essential part of my life, offering not only physical benefits but also a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

However, as I entered my teenage years, my anger and rage started to have a negative effect on my life. It was like a storm that I struggled to manage. I developed a very aggressive personality, which led me down a negative spiral. I was engaging in dealing drugs, theft, and an all-around cycle of aggression and acting out.

My transformation from that turbulent, aggressive period came about through the incredible power of movement, breathing, and boxing. Learning how to box became my saving grace, allowing me to redirect my energy in a productive and positive direction. Through boxing, I discovered an outlet for my aggression, releasing the pent-up anger that had once consumed me.

Boxing had sculpted my strength and determination, but the finesse of balance, grace, and coordination remained a challenge. At the suggestion of my trainer, I ventured into the world of dance – a recommendation that initially gave me pause, especially growing up where I did, but would soon become a transformative experience.

At the age of 26, I embarked on a new chapter, leaving behind my hometown to start my life in Los Angeles, California.

It was here that my journey into the world of movement took an exciting turn with the discovery of yoga. As I immersed myself in the practice, it became more than just a form of exercise; it became a profound part of my life. The serenity of yoga, the union of body and mind, captured my spirit. So, I decided to take my dedication a step further, enrolling in the Yogaworks Teacher Training program under the guidance of two trailblazers in the modern yoga world: Maty Ezraty and Lisa Waldorf.

My teaching approach centers around the precision of alignment and the importance of proper mechanics, ensuring that our bodies and energy flow in the most efficient way possible. Each of my classes is carefully crafted with a harmonious blend of Yin and Yang elements, drawing from my rich background in both dance and boxing.

I’m truly grateful to have the opportunity to share the gift of yoga with individuals from all corners of the world – from dedicated students seeking growth to aspiring teachers eager to learn. This connection, this global community, is a testament to the universality of yoga, transcending borders and backgrounds.

So, whether you’re a seasoned yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, I’m excited to welcome you to https://www.soulplay.yoga in Culver City, where I co-own and teach every day!

Together, we’ll explore the limitless potential within our bodies, cultivate inner peace, and embrace the power of movement and stillness.

See you on the mat, where our paths converge in the pursuit of wellness and transformation.

You can follow me on Instagram: @yo.box, and @tomtyoga

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Embarking on the journey of self-improvement is a brave and transformative endeavor, but it’s essential to recognize that it can be a rollercoaster of emotions. As you delve into the depths of self-awareness, you’ll encounter moments of sadness, suffering, guilt, anger, and even confusion. This process involves shedding layers that you’ve carried with you for a long time, and it can be incredibly daunting.

For me, vulnerability and truly feeling my emotions are aspects that I have avoided for years. It’s a defense mechanism, a way that I would protect myself from the discomfort that accompanies this work. But in order to grow, to heal, we must confront those emotions that have been buried beneath the surface. Healing is feeling!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an experienced movement specialist, offering a diverse range of disciplines including yoga, boxing, dance, and targeted exercises for injury recovery.

My approach is adaptable and personalized, tailored to the unique needs of both individuals and communities. This flexibility ensures that I can provide the most effective strategies to promote well-being.

My reputation stems from being not only highly knowledgeable but also remarkably engaging.

I always bring a touch of humor and keen observation into my teaching, creating an atmosphere that’s simultaneously enjoyable, challenging, enlightening, and enriching.

One of my most cherished accomplishments is being a father to two incredible daughters, Molly and Katelyn. Parenthood has taught me so much and from my daughters, I continue to learn invaluable lessons each day.

Professionally, I consider myself fortunate to be immersed in a field I’m passionate about. Assisting people on their wellness journeys is a privilege that I deeply value.

My knowledge has been honed through immersive experiences with respected Physical Therapists, Spinal Biomechanics, Anatomists and Sports Doctors.

However, what truly sets me apart is my ability to connect with people on a personal level. Drawing from the wide range of my own life experiences, I can effortlessly put individuals at ease in various settings – whether it’s a class, private session, workshop, or life itself.

I’m grateful to be part of this beautiful process, where movement becomes a catalyst for self-discovery, where education fuels empowerment, and where genuine connections foster an environment where everyone can thrive. This is what fuels my passion, and it’s a privilege to share it with each and every person I work with.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The health industry is going to continue to evolve, paving the way for a more personalized and holistic approach to wellness. This shift is steering us towards relying on our own set of tools and practices rather than solely depending on conventional medicine. It’s an integration of the best of both worlds, merging the wisdom of Eastern and Western medicine into a harmonious synergy.

While medicine undoubtedly has its place, there’s a growing awareness that it’s not the only solution to our health concerns. I believe we’ve sometimes become overly dependent on medications, searching for quick fixes to our ailments. However, I’ve witnessed firsthand, through my wife’s battle with cancer, the incredible care and expertise that the medical field offers. It’s a balance – recognizing the merits of medical intervention while also acknowledging its limitations.

A crucial aspect lies in treating the individual as a whole, not just focusing on the disease or ailment. There’s a shift towards a more comprehensive approach, recognizing the unique needs and experiences of each person. This philosophy supports the idea that a holistic perspective, taking into account the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of an individual, is essential for true healing.

In this evolving landscape, meditation is emerging as a powerful tool for well-being. It’s about incorporating practices that promote mindfulness, stress reduction, and emotional balance.

By emphasizing these aspects, we can potentially reduce the need for excessive medication in certain cases. Moreover, prevention is gaining prominence as a key strategy. Instead of just treating symptoms, there’s an emphasis on equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to maintain their health proactively. This shift is a step towards breaking away from the cycle of using medications as temporary fixes.

As we move forward, the integration of Eastern and Western approaches offers a more holistic vision of health and healing. It’s about empowering individuals with choices, acknowledging their uniqueness, and focusing on long-term well-being.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thomastaubmanyoga.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tomtyoga/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thomas.taubman.3/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX1K4ATfadZGBs7cUEiLRug?view_as=subscriber