From the worlds of dance and modeling to becoming one of the most influential voices in modern yoga, Tara Stiles has transformed how people approach movement and wellbeing. As the founder of Strala Yoga, she has built a global community rooted in softness, ease, and authentic connection.

In this special conversation with Women Fitness, Tara opens up about her journey, her philosophy, and why letting go of force may be one of the most powerful things we can do for ourselves.

A Journey Guided by Connection and Synchronicity

Women Fitness:

Your journey from modeling to becoming a globally recognized yoga teacher and founder of Strala Yoga has been unique. What inspired this transformation, and how has yoga shaped your life?

Tara Stiles:

In my early life, I was a dancer, and yoga entered my world through my dance program. Ever since a weekly yoga teacher was brought into our training, I was completely hooked.

At first, yoga felt like something deeply personal—a practice that helped me feel more connected and gave me guidance.

As time passed, I wanted my friends and family to experience that same sense of support and connection. I started exploring workshops and training programs in yoga and the healing arts wherever I could find them. This was back in the late ’90s, long before yoga studios were everywhere.

Along the way, I had opportunities in dance, television commercials, and modeling, but yoga remained my anchor. I often found myself sharing simple practices with people backstage or on set—whether someone needed relief from back pain, help focusing, or emotional support through a difficult moment.

Those small moments of connection naturally led me to open a tiny studio.

More and more people came seeking a way to feel better through yoga—without rigidity or pressure. That eventually grew into Strala.

Today, Strala integrates yoga with tai chi, shiatsu, and healing arts to help people feel better and live with less tension. Yoga has become a blueprint for my daily life. It helps me find harmony, resilience, and wellbeing, and I feel grateful to share that with others.

Full Interview is Continued on Next Page

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