New Teacher Feature
Welcome Panda Mancuso!
Please join us in welcoming our newest teacher Panda Mancuso! She will lead the Wednesday evening 5:45pm Hot 26/2-60 class starting 5/7/25!
In her words: I took my first Bikram Yoga class in late 2019 in Lakeway, Texas. I was initially confused and was left wondering why any person would subject themselves to this type of workout in such high heat. Despite my initial feelings, I was determined to find the magic within this practice.
After a week or so, the practice was permanent. I enrolled myself into BeneFIT yoga teacher training in Lakeway in 2020. When COVID hit, I eventually moved out of Austin back to Tampa, Florida and continued my practice at Gaze Hot Yoga. In late 2022, I was notified that Bikram was holding the original training again Spring 2023 in Thailand. I felt deep in my soul that this was what I *had* to do. I practiced every single day (sometimes twice a day) to prepare for the journey. I packed a few bags and off I went alone to the grueling 9 week training. I received my Bikram College of India certification in June of that year and taught my first class in San Sebastian, Spain. I returned back to Tampa in late November and continued my personal practice. I completed a mentorship program at Gaze Hot Yoga in December and began teaching in the states.
Bikram Yoga has changed the complete direction and course of my life. Through it, I have found a deep connection with my mind, body, and soul. My mat is my safe space.
My goal as a teacher is to hold a space for students to learn more about themselves and find healing through the consistency of this practice, like many teachers have done for me. I lead with the heart, offer posture guidance when needed, share my extensive knowledge with students, and maybe crack a few bad jokes along the way. I believe that the true yoga begins outside of the room, the mat is only the beginning.
Please join our team at Hill Country Hot Yoga in welcoming Panda as a new teacher and come join her class starting May 7, 2025!