I was starting my first business when I realized that most of the guides and opinions on how to run a business were made for men and based on the idea of conquering a specific field. These guides did not take into account my innate intuition, desire for community building or heart centered approach to my work.

These male “business experts” also did no take into account balancing the demands of my auto-immune diseases, being a working mom, and the day to day struggles, stressors and barriers that come with being a women in business.

In 2018 I opened Lotus Yoga Studio, a trauma informed yoga studio built on the pillars of community, healing and created access to health and wellness for all people.

During the pandemic we struggled, as most small businesses did, but with my intuitive leadership I was able to find creative solutions and secure funding that helped us not only make it through, but thrive and rebuild faster than other studios in the area.

In 2024 I opened a second location of Lotus Yoga Studio and continued the trauma informed wellness work in a new community.

Since becoming a business owner I have learned many new skills like marketing strategies that actually work, how to build and maintain a website, money management and accounting, and how to secure grants and funding, and finding collaborations and partnerships with other like minded businesses.

I am a executive board member of the Chamber of Commerce in my local city and believe that by supporting locally owned small businesses we can create the city and economy we desire. In this role I have created events that support and promote local businesses driving new customers to their store fronts and creating a community of small business owners.

Throughout all these various business ventures, I have leaned on my heart centered approach to mentor and manage my amazing team, and I have adapted the typical “9-5” working schedule to follow my own rhythms, needs and inspirations. I have found success by trusting my intuition, relying on community and creating my own opportunities for growth.

Because I love it, I have mentored others in the wellness industry with their small businesses, offering support and insight, helping them create yoga studios, retreats, courses and programs that align with their unique skills and talents. I want to do the same for you.

When not teaching yoga Ren can be found outside adventuring with her husband Damian and their dog Leo. Lauren also enjoys music, writing, creating bad art, meditating, and gluten free baking. Lauren and Damian are expecting their first child in February 2026.

Follow @lavenderprana and @Lotus_yoga_studios