Today we’d like to introduce you to Naya Rappaport.
Naya, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m a South Florida-based photographer, entrepreneur, yoga teacher, wellness personality and movement advocate. My journey began after receiving my bachelor’s degree in photography. I spent years in the wedding industry and slowly merged into sharing my passion for yoga and photography on social platforms. I share my artistic expression of my asana (yoga poses), acro-yoga, cosplay, and daily life to over 300k followers on Instagram. Today, locally I teach yoga in 3 Yoga Joint locations–West Boca, Central Boca and Deerfield Beach. I also teach at a new studio in Delray Beach named UNKNOWN. I have online classes and host workshops and retreats.
Early 2019 I teamed up with Tri-County Animal Rescue (non kill) shelter in Boca Raton, FL. I merged my love of yoga and animals to create #DownDogWithDogs a Doga class. This class helps spread awareness about the shelter, allows adoptable puppies to interact with an hour of playtime and love, along with guiding participants to move their bodies and decreasing stress! The class is a $15 donation in which ALL proceeds go to Tri-County Animal Rescue.
Has it been a smooth road?
I wouldn’t say smooth. I prefer a rocky road over a paved straight path. I’ve experienced many setbacks that have been learning experiences. During this pandemic many people were sadly laid off from work. For a few months I adapted to teaching online to make up for my studio income. Once I got the hang of teaching online I realized I can still continue doing this even when I’m back teaching at the local studios.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
It’s been a few weeks since I taught Will Smith yoga ( I’m still elated). I appear on his new series on Snapchat called Will From Home episode eight. I started to host a book club and meditation club via zoom (free for all to join).
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m creating a Yoga Teacher Training manual. I’ll be leading YTT’s in 2021!!
Contact Info:
- Address: 104 ne 4th ave Unit D, Delray Beach, Florida 33483
- Website: nayarappaport.com
- Email: nr@nayitavp.com
- Instagram: nayitavp
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nayitavpr/
Image Credit:
Naya Rappaport
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