Congratulations Joan as our Yogi of the month! I am incredibly blessed to have met you! We both needed another loving soul the day she walked through my doors and since then has grown to be a loving, dear friend. Thank you for walking through the doors! ~Beth
Read more about Joan's journey below:
How long have you been doing yoga (what's your yoga journey)?
My yoga journey began about 15 years ago in my hometown (Wausau) with a good friend. We’ve moved twice since leaving Wausau, and both times I have been fortunate to find a new studio where I felt comfortable. It was a lifesaver for me, a way to connect with others in unfamiliar surroundings.
What is your favorite class & why?
I love them all, but I’d have to say Gentle Yoga. I honestly love all my fellow yogis I see most days and feel like they are my people. Gentle yoga is yoga at a “me” pace, challenging, but at a pace where I can feel confident in my practice.
What is your favorite yoga pose?
My favorite pose is child’s pose, with happy baby a close second. Child’s pose makes me feel safe and grounded,
What keeps you coming back to yoga?
I was in a sad place in my journey when I started coming to Be Still. I emailed with Beth several times before gaining the courage to give it try. (Wow, I’m glad I did!) Yoga became my refuge, and now is my place of peace, where I can be me, and let myself feel what I need to feel at that time. It gives me a sense of community and family. Physically, I feel stronger and more confident. I love knowing that I am doing something good for my body and mind.
What would you tell someone who is considering trying yoga?
My motto is I will try anything once. Trust me, if you try yoga with Beth one time, you will LOVE it. She is a knowledgeable, patient, amazing teacher and her passion for yoga and her students is so obvious! The other yogis are welcoming and so friendly, it really is a happy place.
Share some of your hobbies, your favorite things to do, or something unique about you.
I love anything nature or outdoors. Gardening, hiking, foraging, skiing. I love teaching my 3-year-old grandson Sully about gardening and nature. My time with him is so precious and I hope he grows to love the outdoors as much as I do! I also am an avid reader, l love to bake, and obviously I love yoga.
A heartfelt thank you to Beth, my new friend, mentor, who has been instrumental in helping me through this last year. Your kindness and friendship will never be forgotten. God bless.