SLP 506: Love, Loss and Legacy with Ryan Gaylard

‘I see the gratitude and I see the light and I see Lauren every day in our beautiful Lucinda. And as much as it is sad, and it’s hard, and it hurts, there’s great days and there’s terrible days, I am still very grateful for the time I had with Lauren and the connection I had, still have with her through Lucinda and through this energy that I’m still learning about, this unknown that’s there and the words she said to me, the knowledge she’s imparted to me, the Zenko Yoga Studios that she’s entrusted with me… every day I am reminded of Lauren, I’m reminded of the way she lived her life, you know the best possible way she could live her life, every single day.’ ~ Ryan Gaylard

In this deeply moving conversation, Ryan Gaylard shares his journey through immense personal loss, military service, and the challenges of navigating life after trauma. From his years in the Australian Defence Force and the struggles of post-traumatic stress, to the heartbreaking loss of his wife Lauren after childbirth, Ryan opens up about the resilience, healing, and transformation that followed.

With honesty and vulnerability, he discusses his story, the importance of self-love, and how yoga and meditation became lifelines for his recovery. Ryan also reflects on Lauren’s legacy as a yoga teacher, his commitment to carrying her vision forward, and the power of community in times of grief and growth.

This episode is an inspiring reminder of how love, healing, and connection can guide us through life’s most difficult chapters while igniting a greater purpose.

His definition of Self Love is: It is so important, countless times Lauren would often talk about the need to look after yourself and put yourself first and foremost. Yoga is the greatest way to help people, and the best hand you can give anyone is the one at the end of their arm. It’s great to help others but the best gift is to help oneself. Be the change, take care of yourself, look after yourself and honour oneself.

His favourite quote is from Lauren herself: Trust in the Universe. Trust in a higher plan. We are all exactly where we are meant to be. You are exactly where you are meant to be. Everything happens for a reason. Just trust. Trust in Yoga.

Links to follow: Website: https://www.zenkoyoga.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenkoyoga/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZenkoYoga

Lauren Verona Yoga Legacy: https://www.zenkoyoga.com.au/aboutlvyl.html

Quotes: Thankyou for bringing attention to the importance of looking after oneself. All farmers in this country do it tough and remind me of the power of resilience. I never wanted to be someone who was affected by PTSD, I did not want something ‘wrong’ with me. I couldn’t get enough of yoga, it was incredible, it was euphoric and I needed more. When we’re green, we grow, when we’re ripe we rot. I’ve always been a big kid, love hanging out with kids. She could tell you a hard truth but do it in a loving way. Whatever you do ask questions of self, be curious. We married on 20-02-2022 as the numbers aligned for us. Then came the most unfathomable moment of my life. Their words were so spot on – it is the happiest and saddest day of our life. Lauren had a mission to bring yoga to as many people in the world. I see the gratitude and the light every day in Lucinda. I aspire to live my very best life. Simone was instrumental in getting donated breast milk every day for 18 months. Very grateful for the Zenko tribe who have support me The decision had to be made and I just have to get on and not lie down. Love is the word that encompasses the need to keep going. The Universe has a path and plan for everyone. We are more capable than we give ourselves credit for. There’s perfection in every imperfection. Be the change you want to be. Lauren is the most genuine person I know. Live in the moment, let it go, and just show up. Movement is meditation. The yoga session you miss is the one you’re going to regret. Show up on the mat but also show up off the mat. Nothing is good nor bad but thinking maketh so. Once we can truly love ourselves then we can spread that love.  

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