This month we sat down with Robin Pastor. Robin and our founder, Lisa, have been friends for years - since Lisa’s start as a juice bar in Chagrin Falls, OH. Robin is co-owner of Chagrin Yoga and is the owner of a small-business and someone we look up to here at Garden of Flavor.
We wanted to know more about her daily life and how she is planning on making 2021 her year. Read more to hear about Robin's furry friend, the importance of breathing, and her advice for aspiring yogi's or business owners!
Please tell us a little about yourself:
If someone only has a few minutes a day to practice yoga, what should they do with the time they have?
The most important thing is breathing. We go through most of our day taking shallow breaths so it is important to focus on taking some deep breaths. I like to roll my neck and stretch my shoulders while I am doing this because that is where I carry my tension.
Any advice for someone looking to get into yoga?
Don’t be afraid to try it. There are people of all different levels in each class and it is not about being able to do what the person next to you is doing. It is about you on your mat taking time for yourself and doing what you can and what feels good for your body.
Tell us about your business and how it started?
My business started in 2009. My partner, Darcy, was a yoga teacher and wanted to open up her own studio and needed a partner to help her. There was not a studio in Chagrin at the time so we opened there.
What’s your favorite part about your job?
Having your own business means wearing a lot of different hats. My job is not only payroll and bookkeeping but also changing the light bulbs and fixing the printer or figuring out why the internet isn’t working. Not all days are great but the amazing people I work with and the people who come to the yoga studio have become friends. So even on the few not-so-fun days, I am surrounded by smiling people who just finished their class and the staff who are all so wonderful!
Any advice for a woman looking to start their own business?
You are stronger than you think you are and if you put your mind to it you can get it done. There are so many resources out there to guide you through the challenges. Use them all from the online courses in excel or QuickBooks to the youtube videos on fixing appliances or computers. The internet is your best assistant.
What motivates you?
My kids motivate me. I believe children learn more by your actions than your words. Being involved in your community and working hard sets a good example for them. They also motivate me because I want them to have opportunities and experiences that weren’t available to me when I was growing up.
What are you most proud of in the last year?
This last year has been tough with all the restrictions the pandemic has put on us. I am proud and grateful that my business is still open. I was faced with a few unprecedented challenges (One being getting through the PPP application, another was putting on Yoga By the Falls with all the restrictions) and I was able to figure them out and get them done.
What are your hopes for 2021?
I am hoping everyone gets vaccinated so the virus goes away and we can regrow our business. Our business went from being closed down for two months to operating at 30-40% revenue. I would love nothing more than to see it back at 100% and welcoming back all those faces we have missed this past year.
What is your favorite Garden of Flavor juice? And why?
Anything else you’d like to share?
Lisa is my hero! She was at a similar bad spot in her life when she started Garden of Flavor and we became instant friends. It has been inspiring watching her business grow and I am so proud of her! I am grateful we met way back when.
If you're in the area, check out Chagrin Yoga and their amazing offerings! (You may even find Garden of Flavor at their Yoga by the Falls events)
