My yoga journey began a few years ago at the House of Yoga in Berkley. My first teacher was a wise woman named Jane, who lured me in to her Sunday morning “Gentle Yoga” class. I have to admit I was a little bit intimidated by yoga, but this class sounded interesting and I was pleasantly surprised to find I was more flexible than I realized. Once I got over the newness of yoga, my next challenge was to focus inward, and not be concerned with what everyone else is doing. It might not seem like a big deal, but it’s truly not easy for a competitive individual such as me.
I suggested to my husband David that he come with me and soon we started attending the class together each week followed by brunch at the Inn Season restaurant in Royal Oak. After a few months, my schedule changed and we couldn’t practice together as often, but David continued. This fall he will be deepening his practice by learning to teach yoga. I don’t think that I could have possibly foreseen this outcome back when I asked him to join me years ago, but the universe can work this way if you’re open to the possibilities.
If you haven’t tried yoga by now, I suggest you take a class with Jim Pero, Owner of Yoga 4 Peace (formerly Rising Sun Yoga) who offers classes on a donation basis. A very patient and caring person, he has helped many people learn about the benefits of yoga over the years. There are yoga studios all over the Detroit Metro area, each with its own personality and different styles of yoga. It is time well spent to find something that fits your own personality and style.
I’m excited to announce that we will be hosting our very first ‘Healthy Living Detroit Expo’ on Saturday, March 19, 2011. It will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, near I-94 and Outer Drive in Lincoln Park. There will be space for 50 vendors, with a limited number per category, and we will give first preference to our advertisers. We’re also planning special breakfast and lunch events as well as afternoon breakout sessions for workshops. More details will be available very soon.
On Sunday, October 3, Image Salon is sponsoring its 6th annual Cut-a-thon and Wellness Fair to help raise money for the Karmanos Cancer Center. Salon owner Devin is a cancer survivor and an amazing woman. Organizing this event is a labor of love, and it’s her way of giving back and celebrating for everyone whose life has been touched by cancer. Please consider donating raffle prizes, food, drinks and supplies. Donors can contact Devin at 313-561-6455.
My sincere thanks to everyone who has contacted me to express their thoughts about Natural Awakenings. I really enjoy hearing about particular articles or news items that were especially helpful, motivating or inspiring to people. There are some days when it can all seem a bit overwhelming, but hearing from readers helps remind me of the importance of this work, and my heart is filled with gratitude that I have this wonderful opportunity to share Natural Awakenings with so many. I am truly blessed with the team of professionals that work behind the scenes to make it happen every month.
Next time you find yourself overwhelmed or just feeling a little blue, take some time out and reflect on all that you have to be grateful for. The first time that I did this in a yoga class it was really emotional for me. It was such a simple thing; I had just never taken the time to be still long enough to really think about it.
Feel good, live simply and laugh more!
