AFTER A YOGA CLASS YOU WILL FEEL………………………..

• Increased energy

• Reduced brain fog

• Focused and balanced for the rest of your day

• Improved your sleep

• Increased flexibility

• Keeping you Healthy, Happy and Strong

My Story

Gardening. It has always been my favorite pastime. Getting my fingers in the dirt gives me joy and it provides me with solace. In a sense, gardening is a metaphor for life – on so many levels. As I write “my story” I am reminded why.

Despite the pleasure gardening afforded me, not too long ago, it also became one of my biggest challenges. My body was beginning to present obstacles to continuing to “get in the dirt.” It started with my fingers. The motion and activity would cause them to swell and ache for several days. It then progressed to my wrists and elbows. Aleve and Tylenol became my constant companions. My back then began to betray me with constant aching that gradually became more severe. My hip was the next culprit. All these issues were a collective reminder that what gave me great enjoyment also caused me significant pain. I was eating poorly and though my physician put me on a physical therapy regimen, it was but a temporary fix. I was depressed and at a loss how to cope with my situation.

My so-called “rock bottom” occurred while I was vacationing with my husband in Florida. I came down with a cold. This coupled with poor eating habits, lack of exercise, and general malaise was a recipe for disaster. It manifested itself when I took a bad fall injuring my hip. Thankfully, it was a minor injury, but my state of mind was such that I viewed my situation as borderline pathetic and lashed out. The recipient of my mood swings was my husband, who has always been supportive and sympathetic. Unfortunately, he also took the brunt.

The blessing in this unfortunate incident was that I finally had clarity and knew that only I could help ME. No excuses. First on my lengthy to-do list was to regain balance in my life. This involved doing lots of research and subsequently making changes, adopting healthier behaviors and in some respects putting myself first. I began my journey towards a more balanced, healthier, more satisfying life. We are only given one shot at this life. It was time for me to “get it done!”

I began eating more whole, plant-based foods, incorporating essential oils into my daily routine and came to consider yoga as my new best friend. I also dipped my toe into the practice of meditation. Sure enough, these various components to a better, more balanced life have slowly given me a new equilibrium and sense of calm. I realize that you must treat your whole being in order to be healthy and happy. It really works.

Healthy and Happy became not only my mantra but the name of my new business venture as a health and wellness coach. Helping others achieve healthy, happy, and pain free lives is my new passion and life’s work. Whether I am working on myself or assisting someone else in achieving their well-being, I am fully engaged in life now and better able to enjoy the simple things like nature, my adorable grandchildren, YOGA, and yes, my garden.

It always comes back to my garden and how it has become a metaphor for life – my life. A garden needs constant attention. I have finally learned that lesson and therefore, give myself the attention that I not only need, but I deserve. We reap what we sow. Yes, this is a cliché, but it is an apt one. Plant the right seeds (eat well, do YOGA, drink lots of water, etc.) and you will achieve results. If you don’t, you won’t.

I am excited for what comes next both in my garden and my life. I see a bountiful harvest.

Testimonials