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I never used to like Yoga.
I tried it in various gyms but I never could really get into it. I
was not as flexible, did not like to look at myself in the mirror
and I always compared myself with other, more flexible individuals.
Everything changed when a good friend of mine invited me to a trial
class. Benjamin and his unique style to teach yoga got me hooked on
it. My passion is to run marathons and yoga compliments this sport
in so many ways. I have been more relaxed, have become more flexible,
have had more inner strength, have felt less tension in my neck, and
the focus I have developed since attending these classes is unbelievable.
Now it is a part of my lifestyle and I would not want to miss it.
It is great that I am able to see yoga from another perspective: It
is more than training my body and being in my body - for me it is
also the power of my beliefs, my will, and my desire. |
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| Several
years ago, my physician recommended that I try yoga to help manage chronic
pain as the result of thoracic scoliosis and moderate to severe degenerative
changes in my cervial spine and lumbar-sacrum. Not only was I in constant
discomfort but I had began to have difficulties with basic activities
of daily living, for example, the simple act of bending to tie up shoelaces
or turning my head and looking over my left shoulder to check my blind
spot before changing lanes in my car. And, I was only fifty years of age!
Then one day my husband came home with a flyer advertising a yoga studio
in the neighbourhood, called 'Stretch Yoga'. Remembering my doctor's advice,
I decided to give it a 'go'. Now, I wish I could tell you that I no longer have discomfort; that I am free of pain etc. but, that would be a lie. What I can tell you, however, is that I am able to tie my shoelaces without grimacing; that I look over my left shoulder without pain; and that I feel (and look!) a great deal better. And, without question, my posture has improved! I now move with greater confidence, ease and grace. So, let me conclude by saying that I feel/know that I have benefited a great deal by attending 'Stretch Yoga' classes. More importantly, let me stess that I have always felt safe under their instructions! I am confident that I am in good hands! Jodi Cole RN, M. Ed |
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| I
began yoga in 2000 at a local church to give myself time to take care
of myself away from my 5 children and my business. I really enjoyed it
but did not find it challenging enough and was not progressing. In 2001,
I began practicing with Benjamin. At the beginning I was only able to
practice once per week but even with that I began to notice small and
important changes. As I experienced the value I began to practice more.
Now six years later at 43yrs I am in better shape physically then I ever
was, I eat better, I sleep soundly, my mind doesn't constantly chatter
at me and I am learning to roll with the various emotions and challenges
that present themselves. More and more I am able to integrate the principles
of yoga into my busy life of work and caring for my children. The result…
more peace of mind and awareness of what is truly important. Barb |
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| “Visiting
the website attracted me to try the studio because of its professionalism.
Once I started classes I was further impressed by how welcoming and comforting
the instructors were and the overall environment. Each yoga class has
been a personal journey to improve my posture, strengthen my lower back
and most importantly discipline my mind and spirit. I would highly recommend
trying Benjamins classes, you won’t be disappointed if you truly
want great instruction, calming natural surroundings and down to earth
and caring classes. Antonietta M. |
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| “When
I first considered yoga, I had only one reason; girlfriend… I norder
to make her happy I thought that I should give it a try. I had very few
negative preconceived notions prior to my first class, but having been
in organized sports before, I was not looking forward to the politics
and the assertive sales pitches. This was not the case here. I believe
that in order to run a good class, Yoga must come first. Benjamin and
his students were outstanding, projecting the true essence of what an
organization should be: pure. Not only do I continue to practice yoga
on a regular basis that girlfriend turned into the most beautiful women
to marry me! Dennis P. |
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| My
Life’s Journey --- Still Going Strong!
I have been extremely active all my life, but never realized I did not take the time to smell the coffee before I drank it. Until…all the stress, I carried everyday, began to manifest in my body. About 16 years ago, I started going to the chiropractor. At first going as much as 3 times a week, slowly working my way to once every 2 weeks. I was still in as much pain, everywhere, but at least it helped for a few days. Then, about 8 years ago, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, (a lot of pain in different areas and extreme tiredness). Four years ago, I stumbled onto Stretch-Yoga and decided to give yoga a try. I found it extremely difficult and painful, when I first started, but thought if I could do this at least 21 times consistently, it may become a habit for me. As I took more classes, I realized I actually forgot to book my chiropractic sessions and quickly realized that I didn’t need them anymore. After one year of practicing yoga, my neck felt better than it had for the past 10 years. Since I have been practicing yoga, a lot of other areas have opened up for me as well. I feel more connected to my body, my mind, my soul and to the earth. My body is still going through a lot, but my mind is in a calmer place to help my body through the rough spots. In the past I always seemed
to be rushing for a destination and now I realize that even if you have
to rush sometimes, it’s the journey that is important --- even
if it is painful! |
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| It
has been great to have the opportunity to be in the yoga class once a
week. Exercising is not my thing but I really enjoy this. It helps me
loosen up (mentally and physically). I thought about skipping class a
couple times because of my busy schedule. I decided to stay for class
both times and I was so glad that I did. I always feel refresh after each
class. Phoebe |
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| The
benefits I gain from yoga reach well beyond flexibility and fitness, although
those are a great start! Yoga helps me to get in touch with my own strengths
and my self-imposed limitations, physical and otherwise; it brings me
closer to my authentic self. Through my yoga practise, I am a more relaxed
and balanced person because I can see that the challenges in life are
an important part of the process of growth and expansion. Through yoga
I can see the richness in the crazy existence we humans endure on this
planet! When I am practising yoga, it feels wonderful to stretch and to
breathe; it makes me feel truly alive! The community at Satya Yoga is
warm and supportive and has seen me through some very challenging times.
It is such a relief to find a place I can go where I know I will be accepted
just the way I am. The center feels like a second home to me. Teresa |