Yoga gave me a new tool and a new perspective. I’ve always been active. I grew up in a gym as a competitive gymnast so although movement and fitness have been natural for me for most of my life, it was primarily a way to keep my mind busy. It wasn’t until 2006, in a yoga class, that movement showed me how to quiet my chaotic mind. My daughter was born with life threatening food allergies. No one seemed to have answers. We felt like we were on an island alone as her weight continued to drop, her skin rashes and breathing problems became more severe and more doctors scratched their heads. I had done yoga here and there but one day in the midst of trying to figure out how to manage all of this new, I attended a yoga class and for the first time felt my messy brain slow down and start to organize. One hour of internal stillness and peace. I left that class feeling less afraid and more empowered simply because I felt calm. I felt like I left my mat with a plan of some sort for my daughter and our new lives. I kept coming back. Eventually, I knew I had to share this gift and overtime that road led me here. I truly have so much gratitude for every opportunity and the many incredible people that I’ve crossed paths with or have shared this journey with. I hope to continue to meet many more!