48. Why Women Thrive When They Live by Energy Cycles

In this episode of Everyday Ayurveda with Kate, Kate O’Donnell is joined by longtime friend and colleague Nea Ferrier, a Level 2 Authorized Ashtanga Yoga teacher, international retreat leader, and founder of Nilaya House in Dubai. Together, they explore the interplay of yoga, Ayurveda, and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on how women can align with life stages and menstrual seasons to live more integrated, balanced, and joyful lives.

Nea shares her journey from the hedonistic nightlife of Hong Kong to becoming a respected yoga teacher and business owner in Dubai. She opens up about her relationship with alcohol, the discipline of daily practice, and the importance of embracing life’s pleasures without guilt. Kate and Nea also dive into the Ayurvedic and yogic framework of the four aims of life (Purusharthas)—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha—and how these can guide us through the many seasons of living.

The conversation also highlights Nea’s work as a Menstruality Mentor, her passion for teaching women to honor their cycles, and practical ways to manage energy, productivity, and self-care throughout perimenopause and beyond.

Episode Breakdown

• Nea’s journey from Hong Kong’s party scene to the yoga path
• The four aims of life and how they support balance and purpose
• Living in sync with menstrual and life seasons
• Navigating perimenopause with awareness and self-compassion
• The connection between discipline, pleasure, and sustainable practice
• Building and running Nilaya House in Dubai as a yogi entrepreneur
• Why women thrive when they schedule work and rest around energy cycles
• How yoga practice and business success share the same foundation

Guest Bio

Nea Ferrier is a Level 2 Authorized Ashtanga Yoga teacher (2010) and founder of Ashtanga Yoga Dubai and the yoga school Nilaya House. Teaching internationally since 2008, she has been a guest teacher across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. A student of yoga for 20 years, Nea continues to study Ayurveda, Tantra, and Vedic chanting. She is also a certified Menstruality Mentor with The Red School, sharing menstruality as a profound spiritual practice for women. Nea’s compassionate, intuitive teaching style empowers students to find balance between effort and ease in practice, life, and business.

Learn more about Nea Ferrier:

🌐 Website: neaferrieryoga.com

📸 Instagram: @neaferrieryoga

Call to Action

Ready to live in rhythm with your body and life seasons? Tune into this conversation with Kate and Nea for tools, stories, and inspiration—and don’t forget to explore Kate’s books and upcoming retreats for deeper support.

Health Disclaimer:

The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.

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