Meet Brad Keimach of Beach Yoga with Brad and Friends in Santa Monica Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brad Keimach.

Brad, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Beach Yoga with Brad started as a fortunate accident! I was teaching at a studio near the beach, and one Sunday, I walked in to teach my regular Sunday class, and the manager looked at me, and said, “Ooops, I forgot to tell you: your room is being used for a special event, and your class is cancelled today!” So, I waited outside, gathered up the students who came, and said, “Let’s go to the beach!” It was so ridiculously wonderful that I kept doing it, and kept expanding it! Since then we’ve gotten “Best of LA” awards from Los Angeles Magazine, LA Weekly (twice), and Santa Monica Business Group (twice). Clients come from all over the world. In fact, well over half of just about every class is made up of people passing through on business, holidays, family visits, etc. It’s a destination!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The constant obstacle is getting the word out. It’s not easy. This is the only regular Beach Yoga business, and it requires folks to do an online search to find us. Word of mouth is wonderful, but a regular internet presence has been the key.

Beach Yoga with Brad and Friends – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
What sets us apart from others, of course, is the beauty, the fresh air, the life-giving sun, and the sound of the surf that accompany Beach Yoga. It truly is the most beautiful “studio” in the land! Our guests have given us wonderful reviews on Yelp and Facebook, and even families large and small choose Beach Yoga as a group activity.

Persistence is the key. Beach Yoga started small, very small, and with patience, it has become a wonderful way to earn a living, much more so than teaching in a studio. We are known for a light spirit, a fun and silly sense of humor, and a gentle hatha yoga practice, taking full advantage of the magical location. The part that everyone remembers, what we call “The Moment” comes after balance poses, right at the water’s edge. I won’t give it away now, but it is so worth the trip!

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is if I have been able to soothe one heart, even just one. We all have some kind of heartbreak/sadness/loss in our lives. Guiding all these dear hearts through a kind and breath-filled yoga practice is one way to start the healing process.

There are many hugs, especially at the end of each class. Folks are sincere, and getting those grateful reflections fills my heart to overflow.

For many years, I was a working symphony and opera conductor in NYC. I had the great good fortune to study with, and become friends with, Leonard Bernstein. He loved his students, and watching him teach taught me how much I needed to raise the level of my teaching. It’s not just about yoga: it’s about inspiring folks to heal themselves, using yoga as the brilliant tool that it is. Insofar as I have been of service, I have succeeded.

Pricing:

• All classes are $15 cash.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.facebook.com/beachyogawithbrad
• Phone: 310-826-6958
• Email: [email protected]
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beachyogawithbrad
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/beach-yoga-with-brad-santa-monica-ca
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pD69_ic7Wl4&t=6s