Yogi in the Community: Brendon Payne

Name: Brendon Payne

Location: Orlando, Florida

brendon_crow — “I thought being male would be the biggest hurdle, boy was I wrong! I quickly found out that my presence in yoga was not as typical as I thought.”

What led you to the practice of yoga? My first experience with yoga was during a team bonding mission. I had just been hired at a yoga apparel store and was invited out to class several times. At the time, I was strictly a personal trainer. Finally, I gave in and gave it a shot. I was hooked instantly!

How has yoga influenced, or even changed the way you approach your experiences in life? I’m not sure if there are words to adequetly answer this. I would say that there is a general calm. Most of my life has been into a much more peaceful perspective. I have gained understanding through acceptance. The best part is, out of all that I’ve learned, I know that I have so much more growing to do! How awesome is that?!

What inspires your practice? Brendon talks about the images typically seen portraying practitioners of yoga throughout media. Brendon continues…

brendon_faceshot — “The best part about my yoga practice is, out of all that I’ve learned, I know that I have so much more growing to do!”

I thought being male would be the biggest hurdle, boy was I wrong! I quickly found out that my presence in yoga was not as typical as I thought. Here I was a Christian, heterosexual, under 30 (at the time), Black, and Omega Man…Yogi! Not to mention, I’m not a vegan or vegetarian. Yup, it’s possible. So, I’ve had to face a few stereotypes, stares, comments, unnecessary jokes, amongst other things…but that comes with the territory right?? Maybe. Either way, it has no bearing on my practice; nor, what I put out into the world through Sequel Life.

I created Sequel Life to give everyone a chance to live a healthy, happy lifestyle. This is ALL inclusive. I don’t think anyone should be defined by their past, so I provide space for a second chance….their Sequel Life!

My aim is to be well versed enough to meet any given person on their level. I am currently a personal trainer, runner, wellness coach, yoga instructor, & certified PiYo Strength instructor. I’ve been blessed to share my many talents with an international audience on many social media platforms. I’ve found these audiences to be more accepting than any other. I’m not sure why, never stopped to figure it out. I’m not sure it matters. As long as I’m able to spread the happiness of wealth through health, I’m happy.