BE WITH WHAT IS

I love my yoga studio.  But, I have not been inside it since early March, shortly before the Covid-19 restrictions were announced by our governor that shut down all indoor activities where people gather, such as yoga. We went to an online model with live classes and a library of on demand classes. It wasn't perfect, but it worked. As time went on Karen, the Yoga Circle Studio owner, was able to open back up when restrictions were adjusted, to allow 6 students and the teacher to attend in person. But I never went. 

I am Covid-cautious. I found a couple of classes that were easy for me to access via Zoom, and stuck with doing those at home.  We also started to develop an online community, looking forward to seeing each other even if only in those little Zoom squares!  Over the weekend I set up a whole new yoga space for myself with a big TV that allows me to see the teacher much more easily than on my laptop. I was eager to try it out this week. Now that will be the way we all access our beloved yoga studio again. 

Covid-19 cases are skyrocketing all over the U.S. as people ignore the pleas to wear masks and refrain from indoor gatherings with family and friends. Many of us are desperately trying to gerry-rig some form of family gathering for the holidays. Some of us (my husband and I) have cancelled the traditional family Thanksgiving and will be home alone, finding a moment to Zoom with our adult sons and their families instead. I'm not even thinking ahead to Christmas yet. 

The new restrictions going into effect today will once again close our yoga studio to in-person classes. This morning I awoke to an email announcement from Karen about the closure. 

And this is the part I love: I know this is a difficult financial/business situation for Karen.  And yet, she emphasized her commitment to keeping us all safe, encouraged us to contact her if we'd like to buy or borrow props to use at home, reminded us of all the streaming and on demand classes, offered to extend class membership fees already paid, and ended with these words: 

 "We are deeply appreciative of the loyal yogis who support us...and with us, practice the virtues of patience and perseverance. Self care is at the core of yoga, and we validate that with this temporary closure of the studio. Take care of yourself! Of course, we will accommodate any extensions of class passes as needed, and continue to make a long term commitment to keep the studio going..... spreading the healing and wholesome message of yoga."

My yoga studio is an important part of my community.  This is such a hard time for so many reasons.  Many are balking at the new restrictions and ignoring them.  But yoga and those who practice are places of balm and calm.  We know all things change; nothing remains the same; we are more than this moment in time.  We can be here for each other in disappointment and sadness, yes, but also in acceptance and in peace.  ©

Namaste,  donnajurene