Hi %FIRSTNAME%,

I recently saw my my mom for the first time since December 2019, when my son and I road-tripped to Michigan for this year's spring break.

My mom and I butt heads a lot, but we were both on our best behavior for this visit, careful not to push each other’s buttons as has been our pattern. Practicing a Loving-Kindness meditation every morning helped me develop empathy for my mom, to see her as a whole human instead of an opposing force of nature or an authority figure.

Practicing yoga with my mom also put us in an open, honest, and vulnerable situation with each other. As I guided our sessions, I could see her strengths and weaknesses. And I could see my own mirrored back through her.

The experience reminded me of why I practice yoga:

Slow Down. Yoga helps me pause and break from the frenetic, seemingly genetic, energy that can run one ragged.

Be Present. Instead of lamenting the past or worrying about the future — as I'm wired like both my mom and her mom — yoga helps me appreciate the moment I’m living in.

Body Awareness. I like being in tune with my body. And, as I age, I want to maintain as much strength and mobility as possible. I come from a lineage of strong women who live long lives, so I need to take care of this vessel.

Non Judgment. The Yoga Sutras teach us Ahimsa — non-judgement of ourselves and others. Meditation is the key that unlocks that empathy, kindness, and compassion for myself and others.

I loved the time my mom and I shared, especially on the mat. I plan to send her a yoga mat and blocks, in hopes that we can practice together through Zoom. Not only will it be good for her 71-year-old body and mind, it’ll be good for our relationship, too.

I won't be teaching my usual Sunday morning class this week as I pause to enjoy Mother's Day with my son.

My regular schedule will resume on Tuesday with a new format for my evening class. Tuesday evenings will be a more lively flow, ending with a couple yin poses and savasana. If you

Tuesdays at 7:30 pm

Fridays at 9:30 am

Sundays at 11:30 am

Enjoy classes tailored for your needs from the comfort of your home. check out class packs and memberships for good deals.

Because I believe yoga should be inclusive and accessible for all, I offer a special rate for Black, Indigenous, Asian American, Pacific Islander individuals as well as for anyone experiencing economic hardship. Use the code COMMUNITY for a 50% discount on drop-in rates and class packages.

Peace and love to all, whether or not you celebrate Mother's Day.

Best,

Heidi