Sheryl Oleksak

What's your story?
Years ago when I was in my late teens/early 20’s, I was a gym junky.  I spent many hours a week there, but realized nothing was happening.  I guess that was due to my strict, so-called too healthy/unhealthy eating and excessive workouts.  With many things going on in my life, I thought I looked healthy, but in reality I wasn’t…mentally or physically.
At one point I realized that I needed to take a step back and re-evaluate how I felt about my life, my self, and the things that I truly needed.  I needed to think about where my behaviors came from, and how I could let go of the past and concentrate on the present.  Thankfully I came to the conclusion that I AM important, accomplished, loved and I needed to change some things in my life so I can be on that path better for me.  I made these changes: my diet, the way I view things in life (being positive), and I turned to yoga. Really understanding and accepting myself for the goodness that I am, and not having to worry about what others thought of me or how others wanted me to be.  It is important to love yourself for all of who you are, and once you do, everything else will fall into place. 
Once yoga became the place for me, I realized that it did challenge my mind and body along with relaxing it.  The feelings of strength, ease, accomplishment, open heartedness, harmony and balance, were all given to me in my practice.  It also helped to enhance my position as a Human Resources Manager, which is an occupation that requires a lot of patience, tolerance, understanding, and the desire to help others and make the workplace as friendly and positive as possible. 
Another place I feel this is with the piano, which I have been playing since I’ve been 5 years old. Being a pianist, and teacher of piano, along with the feeling I get from listening to music, is that great addition of Harmony and Balance that I aim for within…hence the starting of my website www.AriaYoga.com.  These are the feelings that I want to share with others. 

What are your greatest passions in life?
I am passionate about many things, but my ability to play/teach the piano, and practice/teach yoga, are two of the most important qualities that make me who I am today.  A person who loves wanting and being able to help others, making others smile and laugh, enabling myself to love and be loved, and to be passionate about LIFE and all that it has to offer. 

How do you plan on changing the world?Spreading good to all and especially with a smile…one day at a time.

How many passport stamps do you have?Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, St. Thomas, Italy, St. Maarten, Jamaica, Aruba, India, Greece, Peru, Costa Rica and St. Lucia… with many more to come.