Q&A With Fero

If you’ve had the pleasure of running into Fero, you know she is vivacious, always smiling, and teaches a kickass MY Strength class. She will push you so you can be the best version of yourself, make you laugh, and welcome you as you are. Enjoy learning more about her with this Q&A!

Q

When did you first start practicing yoga and why?

A

Once a week I would take a yoga class at the gym I used to work out at but it was never my priority. In 2014, I tried hot yoga for the first time and fell in love with it. Since then, I have included yoga in my routine because it continues to help me through my toughest times.

Q

What is the best experience you’ve had in a yoga class?

A

I notice that the best experiences always come from stepping onto the mat and allowing myself the time to really turn inward and work through internal struggles. I went from playing the victim role to facing reality.

Q

Who or what is your inspiration?

A

No one inspires me as much as I inspire myself. I know yoga makes me happy and helps me understand and accept myself, so when I don’t feel like showing up I remember that post-yoga high and just go for it!

Q

You have one day with perfect weather and no responsibilities. Describe your ideal day.

A

My ideal day definitely includes yoga, food and no commitments! Don’t get me wrong - I love being around my friends and I love my job but any opportunity I have to just roll out of bed and let the day flow without expectations and timelines, I am the happiest!

Q

What do you love most about teaching yoga?

A

I love connecting with students! I really care about each and every person that walks through the doors of MY whether it’s for my class or another. MY Strength is not an easy class, it takes a special person to commit and show up so I make sure my students feel empowered by my class.

Q

What are your hobbies outside of yoga?

A

My hobby outside of yoga is yoga! I love hanging out with friends, planning trips, visiting new places in Raleigh and just being home with my cat, Cleo. I love spending the day outdoors.

Q

Do you have any tips for students who are new to MY Strength?

A

Go with the flow. Your first MY strength class will be challenging, mentally and physically. We have certain expectations for ourselves, especially when walking into a yoga studio. We think it’ll be a simple yoga class with a few light weights involved. While that’s partially true, MY Strength is so much more than that. I recommend letting go of expectations and avoid comparing yourself to your neighbors. Some days I can hold my weights the entire time, others I barely touch them. Practice acceptance and trust you did what you could in that moment.

Q

How has yoga affected you physically or mentally?

A

Yoga is my therapy! The physical benefits are undeniable. I feel stronger, healthier, sleep better and drink more water when I am showing up on my mat consistently. Yoga makes me love my body for what it is and for what it can do for me every day!

Q

What is one fun fact about you?

A

I moved here to be an Au Pair, a one-year exchange program to take care of three children while speaking zero English. Since then, I have worked as a babysitter, barista, hostess, server, bartender and other gigs that put me through college.

Q

What is your fitness journey?

A

HA - well, I moved to the United States and gained thirty pounds. I was the heaviest I had ever been and so upset about it. I started working out twice a day and tried all different types of diets.

In 2013, I actually juiced for thirty straight days. I did have lots of energy, but, that diet was definitely not sustainable. It’s been a long journey but I’ve finally found a routine that works for me and a diet that also helped me maintain my weight and makes me feel my best.

Q

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A

I have Costa Rica and Mexico in mind for the near future.

Q

What workouts do you do besides yoga?

A

Yoga is usually my go-to, but besides that I love strength training and Flywheel.