Today we’d like to introduce you to Katya Seymour.
Hi Katya, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In 2002 I moved to Toledo from Ukraine as an 18-year-old to reunite with my father. A completely new life unfolded, one that was different from before in every way. I went from going to University as an English major to working dead-end jobs and dodging abusive relationships. Having children early in life, I have loved being a mother but always hoped to eventually find my personal path, my grand purpose. Many years and turbulent moments later I found myself drawn to fitness and eventually yoga. With zero athletic background, my passion was my compass as I practiced yoga daily and almost obsessively.
By graces of God and social media, I won a yoga challenge with a certification as a prize. This alone changed my whole path completely. All of a sudden, I was a certified teacher, traveling the world and working as a yoga trainer for a rather visible brand. Eventually becoming an educator and having the honor to lead many trainings in the area as well as across the US and internationally. Co-hosting yoga retreats with amazing teachers throughout the last decade it’s been a beautiful, unexpected journey.
In 2017 I fell in love with sound therapy and in my heart, I knew this was something very important to be shared. Since then, I have studied with incredible masters in Canada and Mexico. This work is truly profound and should be approached with respect and reverence.
Currently, I host monthly sound ceremonies at California Yoga by Kimi Rae as well as Wildlight Wellness in Grand Rapids and have a private practice where I see clients in my home studio.
To this day I am honored to teach yoga, lead workshops, and teacher trainings while continuing my personal education and forever committing to being a student.
Never did I expect to do what I do or be where I am, but somehow it all makes sense.
Life is magic, and we are all miracles.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No road is too smooth, I have some health struggles and chronic issues that have definitely frustrated me. Losing my father to cancer was exceptionally heartbreaking. Having my immediate family dispersed throughout the world makes me feel rather lonely as I only see them once every couple of years. Fitting into a new culture, a different way of moving through life has not been easy. That said I feel like I have gained a greater understanding and more compassion for people because of choosing to adjust, adapt and thrive.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Vira Movement?
My brand and business is centered around movement. Movement of the physical body, emotional, energetic, movement through travel and adventure. That which moves is alive. My passions lie in creating beautiful community gatherings, be it a yoga class or workshop, a healing sound meditation experience, or a yoga retreat in a faraway land.
I am proud of my experience and my integrity most of all.
Consistency sets me apart from others, as well as being someone who isn’t afraid of stepping out of the box.
My life hasn’t been traditional in any way, so I’m not afraid to move different.
My offerings include yoga gatherings, sound healing for group or private events as well as retreats!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the Toledo Metroparks and all the water access in the area.
What I like the least is the unpredictable and often gloomy weather.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://viramovement.com/
- Instagram: @vira_movement
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virayogatoledo
Image Credits
Amedia Visuals
The Fable Photography
