Storytelling Through Mindfulness & Experience: An Interview With NY Yogi Ko Im
With experience as a news correspondent, producer, actor, writer, teacher, lifestyle blogger, and editor (among other endeavors), Ko Im brings a multifaceted perspective to the yoga world. Im’s dynamic background provides her with a unique insight into the human condition and fuels her passion for mindfulness and exploration.
Im currently uses her many platforms to tell stories and create experiences that help other people enjoy the present moment and find their way to inner peace. Most recently, Im has been busy preparing to host a yoga and meditation retreat in Marrakech, a once-in-a-lifetime getaway called “Magic in Morocco”.
The November 2018 trip will bring participants together for six days of relaxation, reflection, and exploration, which will nurture new relationships and help attendees reconnect with their creative potential. Click here for details on the retreat, or read on to learn more about Ko Im and the many ways that she brings her passion for storytelling and spirituality to life.
Name: Ko Im
Job Title: Yoga & Meditation Instructor, Deputy Editor of NY Yoga + Life Magazine,
Current home base: NYC
Originally from: Guam, an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean!
Your Superpower:
My voice, literal and metaphorical. I hope that I exude a sense of calm and spread enthusiasm.
One thing on your bucket list:
Morocco! And being a mommy.
A woman in history you admire & why:
Nora Ephron. The way she told stories and looked at love resonates with the rom-com writer in me.
A present-day woman you admire & why:
Oprah. My friend nicknamed me “Koprah”. She has achieved so much by connecting with others and spreading the good word.
Quote/piece of advice that you live by:
Light on. Love is the answer.
What inspired you to get involved with your current venture?
Like many others, it started out of personal growth and experience. My personal brand is built with a mission for people to live life with more ease, love and joy — instead of being mired down or panicked. I have struggled in many ways, but also I’ve found success by reframing that experience, as well as using alternate therapies to heal.
How are you making a positive impact in your industry?
I want to be a reminder to others to be mindful and true to one’s soul. We lead by example. These changes cannot necessarily be measured, but they are profoundly felt by the individual. Mindfulness makes every moment worthy and meaningful.
What is one thing you have accomplished that you are most proud of?
I finally launched my blog this summer after years of thinking about it!
What is one major milestone that you would like to accomplish in the next year?
I’d like to record a meditation album, and also finish my fiction manuscript. It’s easy to procrastinate by reading a ton of other books, but hey, one step at a time!
What is one project you are currently working on that you are most excited about?
Our Magic in Morocco retreat over Thanksgiving! It’s such an exotic location. We’ll be exploring, meditating, doing yoga, and getting into our creative side! My good friend and I decided to put on this retreat on a dreamy whim. I can’t wait to shop in Marrakech, stay in a beautiful boutique hotel, and have lots of deep conversations over tea with like-minded ladies. It’s going to be my third Thanksgiving abroad.
(P.S. There are a few spots left!)
Editor’s Note: Click here for more information.
What, in your opinion, is one of the biggest challenges facing your industry today?
Everyone feels pulled in many different directions, and inundated with information, to-do lists, responsibilities, etc. It is important to keep self-care as a priority.
What is a trend in your industry that you foresee becoming popular in the future?
A return to simplicity.
What is one of the greatest challenges you have personally faced?
Practicing what I preach, and being honest about it. I am human too, and I’ve slid backwards a few times, but we can always find a way to here.
What were you doing before your current role?
I’ve done so many things, as life presents a variety of opportunities — from covering the White House as a national television news correspondent, to an e-book narrator, to an extra on popular television shows, to a college barista. I was also a travel writer, beauty blogger, and deputy editor of NY Yoga + Life magazine.
What is one of the best pieces of advice you’ve ever received & why?
“Enjoy!” – my Dad
Despite the fact that he works hard, he reminds me what life is about — enjoying the present moment.
What is one of the worst pieces of advice you have ever received & why?
“You can wait.” — a doctor
When you know, you know. Just because someone gives you professional advice, it doesn’t make your decisions any less personal. Try to marry the probability of science with your intuitive gut.
Can you tell us about a time when you took a huge risk/did something you were scared to do, and it totally paid off?
Investing my own money in a retreat I led by myself, instead of being brought on as a teacher. It took some intentional planning, time, and effort, but it absolutely paid off in terms of how lovely the gathering was, and the memories I made that I’ll have forever. Many attendees left feeling refreshed and happy — something I really wanted to recreate.
Are there any great resources you have discovered that you would like to share?
Group: Dreamers // Doers
Classes: Coursehorse Oil Painting
App: Happy Not Perfect
Is there a charity or cause you care about that you would like to share?
Xavier Mission is an arm of my church base that serves the homeless. Homelessness disheartens me, but helping others is very uplifting.
Fun fact about yourself:
I considered becoming a nun… for a hot second.
Follow Ko Im online:
Website // Blog // Instagram // Twitter // LinkedIn // Email
