Life & Work with Panda Pryor of Los Angeles, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Panda Pryor

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From Practice to Passion: My Yoga Journey

My journey with yoga began in my early 20s, when a friend enthusiastically encouraged me to give it a try. At the time, I wasn’t particularly interested, and it quickly faded from my mind. However, as I entered my late 20s, I found myself drawn back to the practice, this time through the invigorating world of hot yoga. I started attending classes regularly, and what began as a casual interest blossomed into a deep love for the practice.

As I explored different styles, my yoga repertoire expanded to include Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and the unique 26&2 format. I even discovered Sculpt yoga, which was a new addition for me. This particular style allowed me to incorporate strength training into my routine, complementing my training as an amateur Muay Thai boxer. Yoga not only enhanced my physical training but also instilled a sense of calmness and centeredness in my life—a balance I desperately needed.

Through my practice, I experienced significant benefits beyond the physical. The breathing techniques I learned helped me manage stress and stay focused, while the mental clarity I cultivated allowed me to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease. After five years of consistent practice, I decided to take the next step: I enrolled in Sculpt teacher training last year. Earning my certification marked a pivotal moment in my journey, and I began teaching soon after.

Now, I am engaged in additional training to teach a more traditional style of yoga, further enriching my knowledge and practice. Sharing what I’ve learned with others has been incredibly rewarding, and I continue to grow alongside my students. In addition to my yoga journey, I also became a certified mindfulness coach, aiming to help individuals cultivate mindfulness in their daily lives.

In my professional life, I work as a stunt performer, specializing as a precision driver. While this career has allowed me to embrace my passion for performance, I’ve noticed that work in this field has been slow. As a result, I am actively finding ways to navigate this challenge by exploring additional income opportunities and considering a second career path.

Looking ahead, I have exciting plans in motion. This June, I will travel to Flores, Guatemala, to volunteer and share my practice with the community there. I also aim to run private sessions and small wellness retreats throughout California, providing people with a space to focus on their well-being and personal growth.

Recently, I started contributing as a wellness travel specialist, helping others curate their travel experiences with a focus on health and wellness. My hope is that my knowledge and passion for yoga and well-being will continue to guide me on this journey, allowing me to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Yoga has transformed my life in ways I never imagined, and I am excited to see where this path leads me next.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to embracing yoga and building my career has not been entirely smooth. Initially, I was disinterested in yoga during my early 20s, and it took time to find my connection to the practice. Balancing my work as a precision stunt driver with my passion for yoga has been challenging, especially during slow periods when job opportunities are limited. Physically, maintaining stamina for both disciplines can lead to exhaustion, and I’ve had to learn to listen to my body to avoid injuries.

Transitioning to a yoga teacher was another hurdle, as I struggled with self-doubt and finding my unique voice in a crowded field. Financial stability has also been a concern, requiring me to explore additional income streams. Time management has been crucial as I juggle multiple commitments, and there have been moments of feeling overwhelmed. However, each challenge has contributed to my growth, teaching me resilience and the importance of self-compassion on this journey.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have a diverse professional background that blends my passion for movement, wellness, and performance. As a certified yoga teacher, I specialize in Sculpt yoga and am currently training to teach Vinyasa and the 26&2 style. My approach to teaching emphasizes creating a welcoming space for practitioners of all levels, focusing on breath, mindfulness, and personal growth.

In addition to yoga, I work as a precision stunt driver in the film industry. This unique combination allows me to draw parallels between the physicality of stunt work and the mental clarity gained through yoga practice. I am known for my ability to maintain focus under pressure, a skill that serves me well in both arenas.

What I’m most proud of is my journey from a practitioner to a teacher, and now to a mindfulness coach. It’s incredibly fulfilling to share my knowledge with others and witness their growth and transformation. I also take pride in my commitment to continuous learning, as I pursue additional training to deepen my understanding of Vinyasa and 26&2 styles.

What sets me apart is my holistic approach to wellness. I integrate my expertise in mindfulness coaching with my yoga teachings, helping individuals cultivate a balanced lifestyle that encompasses both physical and mental well-being. I believe in the power of community and aim to create connections among my students, fostering an environment of support and encouragement.

I am also excited about my upcoming plans to travel to Flores, Guatemala, where I will volunteer and share my practice with the local community. This commitment to giving back and enhancing the well-being of others is a core aspect of who I am, and I strive to inspire others to prioritize their health and wellness as well.

How do you define success?
Success, for me, is defined by a combination of personal fulfillment, growth, and the positive impact I have on others. It goes beyond traditional metrics like financial achievement or career milestones. Instead, I see success as the ability to pursue my passions, continuously learn, and cultivate meaningful relationships.

Achieving a sense of balance in my life—where I can integrate my work as a yoga teacher, mindfulness coach, and stunt performer—is a significant aspect of my success. It means being able to inspire and support others on their wellness journeys while also nurturing my own well-being.

Ultimately, success is about living authentically, staying true to my values, and contributing to a greater good. It’s the moments of connection with my students, the growth I experience through challenges, and the joy of sharing my knowledge with others that truly define what success means to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.travelleaders.com/agent/406987
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/pandatheyogi
• Other: https://instagram.com/pandapryor