The debate of whether work life balance really exists, essentially hangs in the balance, especially when you’re a parent with a full time career. I’m not a firm believer in the “work life balance” phrase, but I am a proponent of giving it your best darn shot!

Such is the case with my colleague and friend, Danielle Campbell. This mother of four is a television anchor who took up yoga about 20 years ago in her quest for work life balance. In 2009 she opened Harbor Lights Yoga in Huntington, New York. I had the opportunity to ask her a few questions recently. For her, the merge of the working and living experience is a journey – not a destination. It’s an evolving process of self growth and sinking her teeth into a vocation that’s giving back to her family and community.

Judy: You’ve been in broadcasting for more than two decades which is quite demanding  emotionally and mentally. Why did you choose Yoga to wind down?

Danielle: I began my practice when I became a Mom for the first time.  My role as an on-the-go reporter changed drastically and I found yoga helped me better balance my new role as a mother – with my career. Yoga helped me work on keeping my body and my mind fit all at the same time. And Moms know it’s all about using your time wisely and efficiently!

Judy: Why did you decide to take on the challenge of opening a Yoga studio?

Danielle: Frankly it was a life decision that was made without too much hesitation. I re-mortgaged my home. It was either spend 23 thousand on new windows and other needed – but could live without – home improvements, or take that money and invest in life giving living! I have taken a gamble and my bet is on life giving! I have an opportunity to help heal bodies, awaken minds, connect hearts and serve others. I put all my winnings on that!  And so far it has been a risk worth taking!!

Judy: How does running a Yoga studio infuse your life with more meaning?

Danielle: My children, my mom, my Dad, my sisters , my friends, my neighbors, my community now have a safe place to give this ancient healing practice a try–Wow!  I have parents coming in with their kids, and the whole family is stretching and growing and meditating together!  I pray everyday the studio will offer a path for others to help bring balance, peace, sanity and health to families.  Families need a place to heal and reconnect. Families need to be considered sacred, and their time together is as well!

Judy: A yoga studio that is family friendly. That’s a different approach.                                                                                   

Danielle: I truly want families, teens, college students, and grandparents to come and discover a practice for health of mind and body that everyone of all ages can participate in!  Yoga means union–and that is what I want to bring to the family unit. I can’t tell you the joy I have teaching a class with Mom, Dad and their 7 and 9 year olds–empowering this family as a whole–teaching them how to keep their minds and their bodies healthy, strong,  and focused!!

Judy: Work Life balance is often an elusive quest in our 24/7 world. Is is really about balance or integration in your opinion?

Danielle: Balance is a tricky word because nothing is ever balanced. Certain aspects of our life do not deserve to have a fair share of our time. Of course there are things we must do, but I think  it is about give and take -  and sacrifice.
Most of all,  know what is worth your precious time. Be ruthless with your time, like a business manager of a major corporation. Are you giving your time to the never ending pile of laundry and chores–or instead choosing to really sit down and be present to loved ones. You have to pick, choose and delegate.  Yes, we have to do the dishes–but they can sit for awhile.  I’ve missed many a beautiful summer day trying to get everything in order before I brought the kids to the park, the beach, out for a walk etc.  I can’t get that time back–it is gone.

Judy: What does a semi-normal day look like for you?

Danielle: Speaking of delegating and using my time wisely, efficiently and in a life giving way! Ahh –Well up at 5am–happily cleaning, preparing my home, my children for the day–at work by 6:45Am. Anchor the news at 8am, and then spend the rest of the day cover news stories, writing, returning emails etc. I head over to the Yoga studio by 4:15pm and teach two classes. I usually pick up some of my kids and they stay with me at the studio –taking a class–doing homework–or helping me in some way. Then we head home–have dinner–time to laugh and share {some of the nights} –prepare for the next day and then off to bed! Most of all I am grateful for every moment!!