

 |
When I moved to Michigan from New Jersey in 2002, I had a yoga practice that was cobbled together from books, videos and sporadic visits to different studios. As a stay at home mom, my personal time was limited. It was difficult to find the time to commit to a class that I had to sign up for and be at the same time each week. When Hilaire opened her studio in Haslett, I was pleased to discover that I could drop in for a class whenever one was offered. I quickly took advantage of the opportunity. As soon as I stepped onto my mat, I knew my yoga finally found its home. It was like no other yoga class I had ever taken. Physically, I was challenged by the class. But what surprised me most was the deep focus I needed and how, after leaving class, I did so with an exhilarated spirit and a sense a peace that I carried through my day.
When I was pregnant with my third child, I continued to practice. I was fortunate to have Hilaire’s Pre-Natal Yoga class. It gave me the strength and peace to come through my pregnancy and the birth of my baby with grace. After my daughter was born, I eased my body back into practice and brought her along with me to the Mommy and Me class. I was amazed at how much stronger I felt, physically, mentally and emotionally. Today, I am grateful to share in this incredible journey, now as a teacher.
Yoga allows me to reconnect with myself. It is how I find my strength, my peace and my place of surrender. It is my sanity. It refreshes my mind, body and spirit and it helps me be the best person I can be, so I can be there for all the people in my life who depend on me. With all the roles we play in the lives of others, it is essential to remember to take care of oneself. Yoga can provide the opportunity to honor yourself and find that peaceful stillness that we all have inside.
|