Friends and business partners, Tanya Boulton and Anna Chung, met in a yoga class back in 2012, and from there collaborated on creating tanya-b, a yoga fitness apparel line that is soft, durable and fashionable and can take you from a workout to lunch with friends to a meeting. The brand’s signature tie-dye halter tank comes in an array of colors, has a built-in bra and is flattering on all body types, and the entire line can be thrown into the dryer without fading, shrinking or stretching. Here we talk with them on how yoga fills the soul, their favorite places to travel and workout beauty must-haves.
1. What inspired you start tanya-b?
TB: It really came from a place of purpose and passion. The desire to take everything yoga and put it into a brand. I was lugging around yoga clothes because they weren’t functional or feminine enough to wear off the mat and I wanted that to change.
AC: I had quit my 13-year stint working in finance and subsequently I had received my yoga teacher training certification. Soon thereafter, I met Tanya and we became fast friends. I took a few months off to travel and when I returned, I was ever more clear about wanting to do something entrepreneurial that could bring together my two passions— yoga and fashion—but also use some of the skillsets from my past profession. I couldn’t have asked for a better tailored situation.
2. Tell us about what makes tanya-b different?
TB: It feels and fits amazing. Also, we have signature pieces and colors that are limited editions.
AC: We have a deep-rooted passion in bringing authenticity to our yoga life wear brand. This means we walk the walk and talk the talk. We teach yoga, we give back, we support our yoga ambassadors with their dreams and make yoga accessible to as many people as we can reach. In terms of the clothes, our focus is to make clothing that is feminine, which fits and feels amazing on and off the mat to support our busy urban lifestyles. We offer sophisticated, limited-edition colors which we don’t repeat, collection after collection. We really want people to feel special when they wear our clothes.
3. If you were not in this field, what would you be doing?
TB: Definitely a DJ.
AC: Something I love and feel passionate about, which bears the soul. I can’t imagine doing anything else now other than running tanya-b and teaching yoga.
4. Yoga is an integral part of your life. When did you start practicing?
TB: I started when I was in high school. It transformed my life and made me realize my physical body was just a vehicle to connect to my spirit. Yoga allows me to feel all parts of me.
AC: I started practicing yoga 15 years ago while training for my black belt in martial arts. It really helped to calm my nerves before competing in tournaments. I had so many stereotypes when it came to yoga, but once I softened into the practice, allowing myself to be vulnerable, I experienced the profound healing benefits. Then 9/11 happened and I was working at the World Financial Center right by the Twin Towers. In an instant it changed me forever. It broke my heart completely when I was already going through a rough breakup. I suffered from terrible insomnia. I spent a long time being by myself, throwing myself into sports and yoga. It brought calm and trust back to my life.
5. What beauty products are always in your workout bag? And is there a beauty product you always wear when teaching?
TB: Aesop deodorant is my favorite. I also love Poetic Pits, which is a deodorant and perfume wrapped up in one without being too strong.
AC: Aesop products all the way when teaching. I love La Prairie’s caviar face mask at night and Laura Mercier Radiance Foundation Primer by day—it literally gives you an all-day glow.
6. Favorite places to travel?
TB: I am biased, but Hong Kong is one my favorite places as I was born there and it’s truly a special place. It’s also close to one of my other favorite places, Bali.
AC: I love Costa Rica, the Maldives, Krabi, and many other exotic locales, but Georgica Beach and Montauk out on eastern Long Island hold a special place in my heart. There are many special memories for me there.
7. You’ve recently been traveling for tanya-b around the country. Any great spots you’ve stumbled upon?
TB: When visiting Los Angeles, I love my time at Casa Del Mar in Santa Monica, yoga with Jen Pastiloff, Ally Hamilton and Vinnie Marino, and dinner at Gjelina’s in Venice.
AC: Tulum’s Amansala is a very special place. It’s the only spot where I repeatedly travel to for five days every year to set my intentions for the year to come. Posada Margherita is an awesome restaurant right down the street.
8. Can you share any favorite pre- and post-workout snacks?
TB: I don’t usually eat anything before I practice. After, green juice and high protein salad always works great.
AC: I consume more kombucha than you can imagine. I love green juices as well, it fuels me when I don’t have time to take in a full meal.
9. How often do you practice yoga and what other exercise do you do?
TB: I would love to practice every day, but it’s gotten to about 4-5 times a week. Prayer and quiet every day.
AC: It depends on the week, but I usually practice about 4-5 times a week and I’m aiming for every day. I also cycle, swim (more in the summer) and love to surf whenever I have the opportunity.
10. What do you recommend for a first-timer interested in trying out yoga?
TB: Stay open, and one day it will change your life forever. Don’t worry about the poses, they will always change like you.
AC: Just do it. Have the mindset of wanting to nourish yourself. Let go of the fear, judgments and ego. It will change your life. You will come to trust and appreciate what you have–right now.
Photo taken by Vix Walker on location in NYC.
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