Safety & Belonging

Before yoga, I was an engineer for forty years. I recently went into retirement. I became sedentary and was beginning to develop both depression and anxiety. I had high blood pressure and had to start taking medication. Even after leaving my job, I still suffered from chronic tension, sciatica and joint pain. I had no direction for anything. My time was spent on my computer or with friends at a beer joint.

I have been coming to yoga since July 25, 2012. December fourth marked my 103rd class. Each day I drive from Clemson to either location in Greenville. This place just seems unique so it it worth it. After my first class, I haven’t missed a day except the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Even then I stopped on the side of the road and did a few warriors to wake up and stretch. From the first class with Janice, I knew this was something I had to do. I used my week free pass to try other classes and after that first week, I couldn’t imagine not coming. I have been a monthly student ever since. Now I take six classes per week: two on Monday morning and then once per day Tuesday through Friday.

The reasons I come back are these:

When I walked in, there was an immediate feeling of safety and belonging. There was no game being played here. The message I got was “Everyone is welcome here. We all have flaws.”

After my first class with Janice, I had an immediate release of physical pain. This has continued over time.

The opportunity for self-centering. This is the only place I can find total acceptance and centering. I need this.

What I have discovered through my weekly yoga practice is that asanas are good for my body, but way better for my spirit.

December 2012

Side note: Our dear friend Ted went on to take two 200-Hour Teacher Trainings. He substituted at Greenville Yoga and taught yoga in Central, SC to a group of beloved friends. He passed away with Liz by his side April 2022. His presence is missed by all.