5 minute read
From Nursing To Namaste
OFF THE CLOCK
NURSE LESLINE
By Maggie Aime, RN
In the fast-paced world of nursing, finding balance and taking care of oneself can be challenging. However, Lesline, a nurse passionate about wellness, has found the perfect blend by combining her nursing career with her side business as a yoga instructor, where she’s making a significant impact in the lives of busy moms.
Lesline Pittman, RN Founder of LeslineDoesWellness
LESLINE’S JOURNEY BEGAN in 2009 when she started practicing Bikram Yoga. As a nurse, she witnessed the stress of her profession, and yoga became her sanctuary. Recognizing the importance of self-care, she seized the opportunity to become a certified yoga teacher when she was awarded a scholarship in 2020. It was a life-changing moment that solidified her passion for yoga and inspired her to share its transformative power with others.
INSPIRING BUSY MOMS
As a mother to two little ones, she knows firsthand the challenges that mothers face. Speaking about her journey, Lesline shared, “After the birth of my daughter in December 2019, I faced significant mental health challenges. It was a tough time, and I felt ashamed because, as a nurse, I thought I shouldn’t be experiencing these emotions. But I knew I needed help, so I reached out to a therapist.”
Through therapy and life coaching, Lesline discovered the power of self-care and mindfulness. She realized that other moms might be facing similar struggles and might not necessarily be diagnosed with postpartum depression. Motivated by her own experiences, she founded Lesline Does Wellness to support moms in their mental and physical well-being.
It was a tough time, and I felt ashamed because, as a nurse, I thought I shouldn't be experiencing these emotions. But I knew I needed help, so I reached out to a therapist.
YOGA AS MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
For Lesline, yoga is not just about physical exercise but also about mental well-being. Through yoga, she discovered the power of mindfulness. She emphasized, “Yoga has been my go-to when I’m not feeling my best mentally. It’s a powerful tool for managing stress and practicing mindfulness.”
This practice has allowed her to be more present, catch negative thoughts, and respond thoughtfully to challenges. With a focus on self-compassion and grace, Lesline empowers moms to navigate the beautiful yet complex journey of motherhood with calm and inner strength.
Yoga has been my go-to when I'm not feeling my best mentally. It's a powerful tool for managing stress and practicing mindfulness.
BLENDING NURSING WITH YOGA
Lesline has found the perfect way to merge her nursing background with her passion for yoga. Drawing upon her knowledge of anatomy and physiology, she incorporates a scientific approach into her yoga classes. She brings awareness to the power of breathing, how it affects the nervous system, and how it can help regulate emotions.
Additionally, having seen patients with conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure during her nursing career, Lesline highlights how yoga can complement medical care.
BALANCING BOTH WORLDS
Juggling her business as a yoga instructor alongside her nursing job is no easy feat. Still, Lesline manages it with the help of her supportive husband and by prioritizing her time effectively. She shared, “I’m a morning person, so I dedicate my mornings to my nursing job. In the afternoons, I dedicate my energy to Lesline Does Wellness.”
When asked about advice for nurses wanting to start their own side gigs, Lesline emphasized the importance of defining one’s “why.” She said, “It might sound cliché, but knowing why you’re starting a side business is a must. If it’s solely for the money, burnout will quickly follow. Take the time to define your purpose and consider who you’re serving.”
It might sound cliché, but knowing why you're starting a side business is a must. If it's solely for the money, burnout will quickly follow. Take the time to define your purpose and consider who you're serving.
As nurses, we know how important it is to care for ourselves in order to care for others. Lesline’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to well-being remind us of the importance of finding balance and nurturing our passions outside of nursing.
So, if you’re a busy mom looking for a sanctuary to reconnect with yourself, Lesline is here to guide you on your wellness journey. And if you’re a nurse contemplating starting a side gig, take Lesline’s advice to heart and discover your “why” before diving in.
LESLINE DOES WELLNESS
As a 2-time award-winning business owner, Lesline is passionate about helping new moms combat burnout and reclaim their wellness. Lesline is a Registered Nurse with over a decade of experience managing patients with chronic conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. She understands the importance of self-care and mindfulness.
In addition to her nursing background, Lesline is also a certified yoga teacher and life coach, making her uniquely qualified to help busy moms find balance and peace in their lives. Through her virtual yoga classes and 1:1 coaching sessions, she utilizes restorative yoga and breathwork to help moms reduce stress, find inner peace, and prioritize their well-being.
Maggie Aime, RN, is a freelance health and medical personal finance writer. She’s the owner of TheWriteRN.com. When she’s not writing, she can be found relishing a breathtaking sunrise, making memories with her children, or rekindling her love of the piano.
