Shri Studio Student Spotlight
Please Welcome Cynthia Connors into our Shri Studio Student Spotlight!
My name is Cynthia. For years it seemed impossible to become a fit, flexible and energetic person. I was overweight, out of shape, and felt pretty uncomfortable in my body. I tried tons of diet and exercise programs but nothing suited me. In addition, I had had back surgery which impacted my ability to work at my job as a nurse. In April 2010, a couple of close friends suggested I try yoga. I went to a beginners class and boy was I sore!!!! Even though I hurt everywhere something grabbed me and I kept at it through the summer. In October, I enrolled in a medical weight loss program. The weight came off quickly and steadily. I was able to do poses and transitions that I could never have imagined I would ever do. The thought of me doing wheel pose or head stands or hero pose or even crow was unthinkable. Then I noticed the changes in my body. I became stronger, flexible, had increased stamina especially at work and increased sense of overall well being. I have amazing mental clarity. I am more patient, relaxed, and have a more positive outlook. Now 50 lbs. lighter, yoga is an essential part of my life. I cannot imagine ever being without it!
One of the most delightful parts of my journey was discovering Shri. From the first moment, I felt at home. The space, the lighting, the music, the vibes of kindness and caring from Alison and her staff encouraged me to dive in even further. My 6 year old daughter and I practice with Vanessa once a month for parent/child yoga. My 12 year old daughter and her girl scout troop have come to experience the joy of yoga. My husband and I attend partner yoga occasionally. When I think about it, Shri has become an extension of family. I am deeply grateful for all that I have received here.
From Alison:
Cynthia has become a "regular" at Shri shortly after we opened, a little more than a year ago, and I couldn't be more thrilled to practice with Cynthia week after week.
Her yoga practice has been "exploding" on the mat and off. To date, we've participated in both a Sanskrit and asana workshop together at the studio, and Cynthia has introduced yoga to both her daughter and husband. Cynthia is always present on the mat, diving into deeper variations of postures and always exploring her "edges." Headstand is part of her practice now, and her back bends are opening up in new, more expansive ways.
It's so fulfilling as a teacher to see a student like Cynthia really engage in the practice ... floating from one pose to the next, working with the breath as a thread to tie the practice together, and Cynthia is also curious about the intellectual aspects of what a yoga practice can mean, in the larger context, which is a really important part of the "shri experience."
Because Shri is one of the youngest studios in the state, it's exciting to be building community with Cynthia and her family and friends in downtown Pawtucket, one class at a time.
With a big heart, we welcome Cynthia Connors into the Shri Studio Student Spotlight!
xo, Alison
About the Spotlight:
The
Shri Studio Student Spotlight is intended to honor our students who
have shown dedication in their yoga practices and a commitment to the
community.
Past Students Featured in the Shri Studio Student Spotlight:
Rebecca Sparks
Cyndie Sokobin
Heather Bryant
Dee Bird
