student spotlight: +300 classes in one year!

Jennifer Fayocavitz walked through Yoga Home’s doors for the first time February 11, 2018. Over the course of the next year, she practiced with us a whopping 323 times. I write this blog as one of the co-founders of Yoga Home, here almost everyday, and I didn’t even make it to my mat that many times. So it felt important to acknowledge Jennifer and her practice — and also ask her what she’s learned over the past year. We’re grateful she was willing to share about her experiences at Yoga Home.

What brought you to Yoga Home?

I came to Yoga Home looking to find some gentleness for myself.  My routine of spin and weightlifting was leaving me depleted and I wasn’t enjoying it anymore.  I took a yoga class at my gym and I found that it could be both a workout and the gentleness that I needed.  My friend Susanna Norbeck had been encouraging me to go and so I did.  My first class was a gentle class with Meghan Dwyer.  I was hooked the minute I walked in the door.  It felt like a spa and it still does.  

What is the practice of yoga teaching you?  

First and foremost yoga has taught me how to breathe. I took a lesson with Candace Stevens and the first thing she said was “Let me see you breath”.  It was such a simple thing.  I could not remember the last time I took a moment to take a deep breath.  Yoga is teaching me to take some time to care for myself, to show myself some kindness and self-acceptance.   It has taught me that my judging of others is reflective of my internal judging of myself. I am really tough on myself sometimes.  I am still working on the grace and gratefulness thing.  I have it in the building but I working on bringing it into my life. 

What impact has the practice has on your day to day life?  

I treat myself better.  I don’t mind speaking and sharing in a public anymore. When I get overwhelmed with crap I let myself acknowledge it –sit in it for a bit and tune in rather than tune out. (Thanks Cicelee!)   I try to do more what I NEED to do instead of what I think I SHOULD do.  (Thanks Alicia!).   I make time to get up from my desk to stretch and open up.  I’m starting to not be afraid of trying new things and be okay with any outcome.  

What’s your favorite part of Yoga Home?  

The warmth, the smell, and the friendly faces that greet you as you cross the threshold. The number of different offerings is amazing.  I would have never tried acupuncture or been exposed to singing bowls! And also…the retail!

What do you think we could be doing better?

I would love to see more retreats that are shorter.  Maybe a day long?  Or an overnight that is close by.