Questions and answers (and inspiration!) with Elizabeth McClain, owner of Balance & Breath Yoga and Wellness in Plainfield. Elizabeth was one of the co-organizers of the recent and very successful Summer Soulstice event in Danville!
1. What is your name and where is your business?
Elizabeth McClain, Balance & Breath Yoga and Wellness at 2680 E Main St Ste. 202, Plainfield IN.
2. What (or who) inspired you to start your business?
I made the choice to become an entrepreneur for my family. I wanted to contribute to my family and my community, but I wanted to do that on my terms. Entrepreneurship and opening our studio in 2017 has allowed me the flexibility to show up for my family as a wife and mother in ways I never imagined. When I told my yoga teachers I wanted to open a studio to serve Hendricks County, their response was, "If you do not try, will you look back in 15 years and wonder what could have been if you didn't take the leap?" My answer was yes, so I went for it! I am so thankful I did.
3. What do you love most about the work you do?
As a multi-passionate yoga teacher and entrepreneur, I love changing lives through teaching the practice of yoga and incorporating NLP coaching to help remove mindset blocks and bring and sense of overall wellness to my students. This is a true passion of mine and is what brought me to opening our studio. As the only Registered Yoga School in Hendricks County, I really enjoy supporting women in their journey of entrepreneurship in our industry. Watching these women touch lives, have a successful service based business, and have the flexibility to be home with their families has brought me such a deep sense of satisfaction.
4. What advice do you have for others wanting to start a business?
When asked if starting a business if the right move, I share what my mentors shared with me. If you don't do it will you look back and wonder if it would have worked? If the answer is yes, then go for it! My next piece of advice is key: to set strong boundaries and have a solid routine for self-care. Always honor your boundaries and take care of yourself. You cannot give from an empty cup.
5. What do you do to take care of yourself, and how to make/find time to do it?
My self-care practice starts with meditation. I call it RPM: Rise, Pee, Meditate. This is the most important part of my self care practice. This allows me time for silence, self observation and the practice of meditation is proven to help with stress, controlling emotions, creativity, clarity and focus. Other ways I practice self-care are by honoring my set boundaries; for example, no phone in the bedroom, screens off at certain times, and scheduling time off. I also make sure I am drinking plenty of water, eating nutrient-rich foods, and getting the sleep my body needs to help prevent burnout.
6. What can readers do to support you in the community?
We would love for you to follow us on our social media platforms. We are always offering fun community events, studio events, and family events and our Facebook and Instagram pages are great ways to engage with us and stay up to date with our offerings. We would love to have you come check out the studio, take a tour and learn more about all of our offerings. Everyone is welcome at our studio, and no matter what brings you to yoga, we are here to walk next to you and help you reach your goals.
7. What is your favorite spot around Hendricks County?
Hendricks County has so may great offerings! I love visiting the Shops at Perry Crossing, and Sodalis Nature Park and McCloud Nature Parks are my go-to parks for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. I also love Opa! Greek Restaurant (Avon) and The Real Food Shoppe (Plainfield)!
**Do you know a woman business owner/leader in Hendricks County? Recommend them to be our next Business Boss!
