Yoga has been a part of my life at different points over the years, but my consistent journey with yoga truly began about two years ago when I joined Sumits. Initially, I was just looking for an activity to support my weight loss and overall health goals. I was looking for something that would fit into my busy schedule of being a working mom with two small kids, and that I could do at my size. What really struck me right away with Sumits and hot yoga in general was that it really was available and open for everybody and every body type. Despite being 200 pounds more than I weigh today, I was able to modify poses, work with instructors, and learn to listen to my own body to find things that worked for the body I was in. This ability to listen to what your body needs while continuing to challenge it has been the biggest thing I have gained from my practice.

Through yoga, I not only achieved the goals I set for myself, but also developed a greater appreciation for my body at every stage of the process. I learned just how much my body could do. For the first time in my life, I feel at peace with my body, and that has nothing to do with the size it is, but everything to do with connecting with my body through yoga and learning to appreciate all that it can do. Along the way I also discovered a welcoming community at Sumits that has made this journey even more meaningful. The connection, encouragement and shared practice with others has enriched my experience and reminded me that yoga is just as much about community and self-acceptance as it is about movement.