Recently, I have been very very busy. With a new business, teacher training, 2 kids and a kitchen renovation, it might not have been a great time to start something new, but an opportunity arose and I could not resist. At Harmony Health and wellness, the house where I teach, back in November a notice was posted for an Artist’s Way series of classes- a support group for artists who are struggling with creativity. Naturally, I thought it would be great to attend, but not practical. However, the day it started, I happened to be there, and my longing to join was so powerful I did.

Throughout December I kept wondering why I bothered. I went to each session, but in between I did none of the homework. What was the point? It was great fun to be there, interesting, stimulating, but wasn’t I missing the point if I did none of the work to get myself back into art? Then in January, I had this surprising burst of energy and found myself doing some of the work- 3 daily pages of ‘stream of consciousness’ writing.

The writing is supposed to clear one’s mind so that disturbances can be expressed and let go, and to let new ideas arise in an unpressured way. An interesting theme arose in that week. I wrote almost continuously about how great I was doing. Amazing! On a daily basis I seem to go through each day getting about a tenth of what I would like to do, and beating myself up about the ninety percent left over! What a gift to give myself positive reinforcement!

But the greatest revelation of all was regarding my students- I realized that everyone is a great gift. Perhaps, just a tiny bit, I projected my negativity about myself onto others- do my students attend every class, every session- no. Are they practicing at home- not always. Just like me in this new endeavor to recover my artist side, my students taking yoga are going step by step, sometimes struggling just to make it to class and wondering if its worth the effort. Hopefully though, enjoying each class, and with renewed effort each week.

So thank you. Without students, I wouldn’t be teaching. And to show my heartfelt appreciation in a small way, I am offering $10 off an 8 week session- so join in the month of February, and get 8 classes for $94. I hope this is an incentive for you to start, or keep on with yoga,or to renew your commitment if you have taken a break. Brand-new students to Yoga with Frances can try 4 classes for just $45.

I look forward to seeing you at Harmony Health and Well-being at 231 King Street east in Oshawa. To find the best time for you, go to Schedule, e-mail me, or call 289-928-7292. We are easily accessible from Bowmanville, Courtice and Whitby too. See you soon!

Frances

Yoga with Frances