From Britt from Germany: Hello Marcee!
We have never met, but I’ve been in your yoga studio a lot in the last month. My name is Britta and I am a girl from Germany who’s come to Pueblo only to visit her boyfriend. The first 2 months that I’ve been here were very boring for me and I was quite unhappy. Then something worked out for me so that I could start an internship for the Pueblo Historical Society and – maybe because fate wanted it – I found your yoga studio on the way to work at the library. It caught my eye because of the lovely bright colour and because of the sign that says "gutyoga.com". I’m sure you know that "gut" in German means "good" and that made me stop and look at the schedule. Well, the very next day I called you, arranged the monthly unlimited and started right away! I had only had one other yoga class in my life before I came to your studio but I found it relatively easy to fit in and started to enjoy everything we did immediately. All the teachers do a wonderful job and the atmosphere is just amazing! I enjoyed the classes so much that I came 4 times a week and took 7 different classes.
Marcee, even if I never met you, I feel like I know you a little because there is so much of your personality in the studio, its decoration and on its peoples minds and in their hearts. There was never a day that nobody spoke of you and I was really impressed and touched by your story and by your emails. You are a truly inspiring person and I wish you all the best for the future! I just wanted you to know, how much it improved my time in Pueblo to be part of your yoga community! It gave me a reason to leave the house, get active, meet people and feel busy in a nice way. As I don’t have a car, I had to catch two different buses to come to class or take the bike, so coming to the studio really was an effort every time – but really, I did not care at all because I just loved it! Yoga made my body and my mind feel much better and I wanted to thank you for offering this great experience to me. The yoga classes and the people I met there changed the way I felt about being here and they will be on my mind when I’m in Germany, thinking back. So again, thank you very much! I had a very great time!
All the best,
Britta
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It has been said that women can remember vividly the smallest details of childbirth for decades following the event. The opportunity to participate in the miracle of birth is a profoundly moving and intense experience. This testimonial is an offering to share how my yoga practice helped me through pregnancy, childbirth, and the recovery process.
The application of Anusara Yoga’s first universal principle of alignment, opening one’s heart to grace, allowed me to receive calming messages during pregnancy that alleviated my anxiety over childbirth. On multiple occasions, I felt a calmness overcome me and I instinctively knew not to worry, everything would be fine, that I would be guided through the process by a higher power. The result was a serenity and confidence that I carried with me constantly, and could call upon whenever the need arose. In fact, there was a moment during some particularly intense contractions where I recall trusting in this higher power, but also asking if we could move things along a little bit faster.
The practice of pranayama increased my mindfulness of each moment and allowed me to remain focused through contractions. Deep, mindful breathing enabled me to think clearly and communicate my needs to those supporting me. I remember a particular moment that I felt I was having difficulty in bringing the breath deep into my stomach. With presence of mind, I was able to recall and practice the Viloma I breath, which, in retrospect, I believe prevented me from hyperventilating.
Additionally, I had hoped to give birth without the need for an epidural. Although I experienced a moment of wondering what could possibly be wrong with a drug that would relieve the pain of childbirth, I was able to remember my own personal reasons for wanting to avoid that option. It was a powerful reminder at a moment when I needed it, and I succeeded in delivering a 9-pound girl without an epidural.
Yoga also has made me strong. Although I felt I lacked the necessary strength to push Allison out, my husband later claimed I was on the verge of breaking his arm. This strength, developed through a consistent practice during pregnancy, assisted me in a fast recovery following childbirth. I had my yoga mat out six days after giving birth, and was amazed at the energy and strength I gained with each passing day.
The practice of prenatal yoga can have a powerful impact on a woman’s body, mind, and spirit. It is a wonderful opportunity to connect more fully with oneself and the new life growing within.
Namaste,
Anne Henrikson
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"I came to my first yoga class last week on the recommendation of one of my friends who is one of your students. I didn't know what to expect, but I enjoyed the class a lot and later I had the best night's sleep that I have ever had." - J.D.
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"I feel blessed to have found Anusara Yoga. It is the strong practice that I need along with a strong sense of spirituality. Having Marcee in my life has been an incredible exsperience for me. While on vacation in San Francisco recently I took a class with local Anusara teacher Stacey Rosenberg. It was in her class that I heard that John Friend would be in Sausalito, CA. that weekend for a wedding. I had the opportunity to hear John speak on love and relationships and even introduce myself. No deja vu yet, but I truly feel I am exactly where I am suposed to be in life and headed down a beautiful path."
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"Marcee, since I began taking 2 yoga classes a week from you I have energy for enjoying Friday nights and the weekends. I also have more energy and peace of mind to be much, much more productive at work. Even my co-workers have noticed the change in me. Thanks for the beautiful improvements your yoga classes have created."
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"I began coming to your yoga classes three years ago. Since then my doctor and I have seen my blood pressure come down, my heart rate stabilize and I feel noticeably younger, and more relaxed. My friends and family constantly tell me I look more beautiful every day. Yoga will be a part of my life forever!" - M.M.