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John Mickler

In late 2018 shortly after retiring, I met with my Neurosurgeon and chiropractor to figure out what I could do about my back problems. I had sustained multiple fracture vertebrates in showing and working with horses for thirty years in dressage, hunter & jumpers, and three-day events. After hanging up my stirrups, I spent the next fifteen-year bicycling road and off-road. Having been told again that surgery was not an option, I needed a way to strengthen my core to better support my back. Conventional exercises had always caused more pain than results.

My chiropractor Matt Murdock suggested Yoga and, he recommended Drishtiq Studio; having taken classes, he knew the instructor’s high level of expertise and quality. At Drishtiq, I explained my situation, what I needed, and also addressed Amy's questions. From this came a private class with Deb Begley. The session went well, and I demonstrated the ability to get started, if not the flexibility.

I had sporadically taken yoga classes in Cincinnati over the years at various studios. But nothing compared to Drishtiq, they stood out from the others. I especially enjoy the instructors' knowledge, who pass on their explanations, theory and humor during class.

After two years of yoga practice, my flexibility has greatly improved. Some poses that were once intimidating are now doable. Bit by bit, I started picking up that Yoga was much more than movements and poses. Having created a meditation practice several years before joining Drishtiq, the experience of Yoga plus meditation pique my interest in eastern philosophy. To this end I attended a workshop at Drishtiq, “The 8 Limbs of Yoga” living the philosophy of Yoga off the mat taught by Glenn Terndrup.

The Eight Limbs of Yoga

“In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali describes an eight-fold path to right living that is called The Eight Limbs of Yoga, or Ashtanga in Sanskrit. In the practice of yoga, individuals are dedicated to creating a union between mind, body and spirit. Patanjali’s eight limbs outline a way to achieve and practice that balance. The eight limbs act as a guide for yogis to live a life of integrity, self-discipline, respect for nature and the spiritual aspects of life”. 1

As I have found late in life, there is a reason that we arrive at a destination; although unclear at first, we come to acknowledge and grow because of it.

Thank you, Drishtiq

John Mickler

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Yogapedia https://www.yogapedia.com/definition/7274/the-eight-limbs-of-yoga

Glenn Terndrup - RYT-200

During a particularly stressful time in my life, I decided to try yoga. Yoga was never on my list of interesting activities to try, but I had heard that it was particularly good at alleviating stress. My first yoga experience was doing yoga with the guidance of a DVD I had checked out of the library. In a matter of weeks, I began to notice a greater mental freedom and I was hooked! Yoga also helped alleviate the back problems I’d had for several decades.

The impact yoga had on my mental resilience was so significant that I decided to become a yoga instructor. I signed up for Drishtiq’s teacher training program. Originally, I figured the training would be limited to guiding people through a sequence of yoga asanas (postures). To my surprise, I found that a significant amount of training time was also devoted to discussing yoga philosophy. Although we covered several different types of yoga philosophy, I was particularly interested in the eight limbs of yoga (a.k.a. Raja yoga). My interest in Raja Yoga was due to the large amount of scientific research that validates several of the eight limbs (I am a biology teacher hence the interest in research). For example, the Raja yogis realized that you can develop greater control over your mind by tapping into breathing.

We now know that diaphragmatic breathing does indeed calm the mind. Two of the eight limbs of Raja Yoga deal with developing the “muscle” of attention, which is also a key to mental health. Yoga originally was so focused on the mind that the Sanskrit term asana that describes physical yoga postures, means “easy seat”. The first yoga involved finding a seated posture that simply made it easy to sit and meditate!

Although yoga has great potential to transform us physical and mentally, it’s a discipline, and like most disciplines, it’s easier to be consistent when you are doing it in community. For those who are interested, our community can also be a place where you join others in the spiritual journey of personal transformation. Toward this end I have facilitated a couple of book studies which have been a great way to get to know people a little better and explore keys to spiritual growth. My idea of the ultimate yoga class would be a mix of physical yoga (asanas), meditation and group discussion. Maybe if there is enough interest, we’ll start such a class and I’ll see you there!

Namaste,

Glenn

Jen Casey, E-RYT 200, RYT 500

My yoga journey started 13 years ago with an achy hip. My daughter, Emily, had multiple disabilities and was unable to walk. Although she used a wheelchair, I would often carry her on my hip out of convenience, leading to chronically sore and stiff joints. After 6 months of regular yoga practice, the mobility in my hip improved. However, it was the feeling in my emotional body that has kept me coming back all these years later. The pressures of being a mom to a child with mental and physical disabilities, along with a host of medical diagnoses, are enormous. Yoga allowed me to leave that stress on the mat and gave me the time and space to heal both my physical and emotional self. It was that feeling of renewal that motivated me to complete a 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training at Drishtiq in 2016.

Emily passed away from complications of her disorder on March 31, 2018, at the age of 18. Despite her sufferings, she was the happiest and most joyful person I will ever know. She taught me that regardless of our circumstances, it is our outlook that makes all the difference. With the support of my husband, TJ, my other daughter, Amanda, and in honor of Emily’s spirit, I have continued to deepen my understanding of yoga and completed a 300 Hour Advanced Yoga Training in restorative and adaptive yoga in February of 2021. As an E-RYT 200, RYT 500 I am so happy to share my love of yoga, making it more accessible to all students, whether they are looking to heal their physical, mental, or spiritual selves.

Jennifer Lutz

Hello, I’m Jennifer Lutz, and I started coming to Drishtiq in January 2021.  I had been looking for a place to deepen my practice, expand the variety, and an environment that incorporated the philosophy and values of yoga into life.  I’ve found those things at Drishtiq.

My practice started 25 years ago when I became ill from a virus that left me in excruciating pain and limited my daily life.  Yoga helped to ease the pain, allowed my mind to focus, and gave me a place to honor my path despite the difficulties.  I’ve taken time off yoga during the 25 years and have found I’m more in harmony when I am practicing regularly.  In 2014, I began incorporating meditation and breathwork into my life which has transformed my practice both on and off the mat. 

I am drawn to the Yoga philosophy of Ahimsa (Non-Violence/Non-Harm) which I find to be so powerful.  To start from a place of non-harm allows all the other choices in life to become so much simpler to make.  One of my core values is Kindness.  I believe that being kind is one of the most generous and healing things a person can do for themselves and others. 

When I’m not on my mat, you can find me reading, drinking coffee, or lifting weights at the gym.  I also enjoy playing chess/card games, getting massages, having deep conversations, and traveling. I’m a mom of 2 kids (18 and 15), and I have 2 cats.  In April I will begin my Teacher training and I am honored for the opportunity to study something I love. 

Best,
Jennifer 

April Hoak

Yoga has helped me re-find myself. I went to my first yoga class probably about 10 years ago. My daughter, Jordan enjoyed yoga with me. It was fun and warming to my heart to look over in class and see her in tree pose or warrior II beside me. When she died over 7 years ago, a deep, deep wound sliced directly to my heart. I wasn’t sure how or if I wanted to keep going… to yoga or to living. I stepped off my yoga mat for over 4 years. I missed yoga, my daughter, and myself. Somewhere deep inside me, I discovered this yearning for better and for more… life!

Three years ago, I rolled out my yoga mat again in the Drishtiq studio. Yoga has been a journey of transformation and rebuilding of who I am and what I want to become. My mat is my safe space to connect to something deeper inside me and find that Oneness that connects us all.

Practice is one of my favorite words… I am practicing living, practicing staying present, and practicing finding myself.

This past fall, I enrolled in the Yoga Teacher Training at Drishtiq Studio. I am overjoyed to share that myself and three other beautiful women are now certified yoga teachers! Yoga has helped me bridge the visible with the invisible and see it all with my heart. I carry all these teachings with me on and off my mat. This Drishtiq community means love, beauty, and abundant heart space. I will always have my daughter, Jordan beside and within me, on and off my yoga mat. I am so very grateful for this practice!

The Light in me sees and honors that Light within you!

Lynn Beckman

My yoga journey began 4 years ago in The Villages, Florida. I followed my husband to yoga classes which were held by our house at a recreation center. This being a “retirement community”, I figured the classes would be fairly easy and I could do it without embarrassment. Well, I soon discovered that I could do this and became a regular student attending classes almost every day we were in The Villages.

Since we also have a home in Liberty Township, Ohio, I wanted to continue my yoga when we were in Ohio. I Googled “yoga studios near me” and DRISHTIQ Yoga was suggested. I called. Amy Kreider answered. She was so friendly, upbeat, informative and suggested that I try out a class. I was hooked! I attended a class and joined. I was so impressed with the studio and the instructors and that was over 3 years ago.

Yoga has become an almost daily routine for me and I thank DRISHTIQ for this. The studio is a sanctuary where the mind and body are challenged to focus and connect with the breath. 

Now with virtual classes, I thankfully can take DRISHTIQ to Florida where my lanai becomes a comforting DRISHTIQ class surrounded by the familiar faces of students and instructors. So far, it has also been Hot Yoga!

Yoga is a physical and mental inspiration for me. I blend my practice with personal training at the gym which is a physically tough and different mindset. This keeps me feeling young, and at 70 years of age, I am so grateful.

Thank you DRISHTIQ 

Namaste, 
Lynn

Angela Ferguson

When I was around 14 years old I decided I wanted to do yoga. In the early ’90s, before Google, if you wanted to know something about anything you went to the library. So that’s what I did and checked out a book on yoga. Let’s just say, my yoga journey did not start at 14. The book was less about the physical practice and more about a monk-like lifestyle – not interesting to a 14-year-old, especially at a time when yoga was not as prevalent as it is today. But the curiosity about the world of yoga persisted.

Fast forward 25 years… as I neared my 40’s I decided I needed to make changes. I was traveling a lot for work and wasn’t in the greatest shape. I joined a gym and got a personal trainer. Alongside doing the gym thing, I revisited the lasting curiosity for yoga and got a yoga app. I began doing 15 min of yoga every morning with the app. However, it wasn’t until I joined a yoga class did I really fall in love with yoga. My teacher showed me how to properly get into poses, how to deepen poses, and explained how they should feel in my body. Additionally, I began to connect with the intention setting at the beginning of class. Finding the mind-body-spirit connection was what I needed. Yoga taught me to realize my inner potential. The more I practiced, the better I felt all around. Unlike other exercises, which did offer a level of stress relief, yoga required mindfulness I didn’t get from other activities. At this time I lived in the Denver, CO area where yoga studios abound. The yoga community was large and cultivated my passion for the practice.

In 2019, I moved to Cincinnati, OH, and knew I had to find a studio. Google, thankfully, led me to Drishtiq. After a few months at the studio, notices for teacher training came out. Previously I thought I would like to be trained to be a yoga teacher, but thought “no, I’m not an experienced enough yogi for that.” Being new to the area, I reshaped that thought, and went for it; what the heck, yoga is not about perfection, it is about the journey. Best thing I ever did for myself. I had no idea what to expect from teacher training, but what it turned out to be was nothing I could have imagined. Teacher Training exposed me to an entirely new body of information. Although I had experienced the mind-body-spirit experience of the yoga practice to some degree, teacher training equipped me with the tools to really understand how physical practice can completely transform the mind and spirit. I was going through some challenging life changes and the practice of yoga kept me grounded and centered.

Enter 2020 – never before have I ever been so grateful for yoga and for Drishtiq. As the world shut down and we all sought to manage in our own way. I turned to yoga; for ~2 months I averaged 11 yoga classes a week… All virtual. I missed the in-person energy and community but found a new way to connect. Coming back to the studio to practice and then also to teach filled, my soul. As life continues to change, I found myself moving back to Colorado. This was certainly a bittersweet transition. Although I was eager to get back to friends, enjoy the outdoor lifestyle, and excited about a new job opportunity, I was sad to leave Drishtiq. However, one silver lining of the pandemic is the virtual classes. I have maintained the virtual membership and still get to practice with the Drishtiq community. “Dance Party Yoga” as I call Saturday morning with Amy V. and DJ Jagwire continues to be a highlight of my week! Namaste.

NANAE MARUYAMA

I have been doing yoga at the gym for about 8 years from time to time. I started doing it properly in 2018. I came to America from Japan in 2017. Because I didn't exercise, I felt under the weather and put on weight. I went to the gym in January 2018 and started doing yoga online at the same time. Yoga after a long time was very comfortable.

I broke my right collarbone in 2016, and my right shoulder hurt, so my right arm didn't go up, but since I started yoga, I've been able to move more and more around my shoulders. I was convinced that I needed yoga. My lower back and knees were injured. I have come to want to learn yoga well. That's why I thought I'd try teacher training.

I chose Drishtiq Yoga among many yoga studios. This is because there is a Japanese community class here, and a Japanese actually qualified and worked as an instructor. The instructor Rikako encouraged me. I am not good at English, but everyone supported me. I really appreciate Amy, Deb and Jen.

I started the Japanese community class in 2019, and now, because of COVID-19 I'm continuing my Japanese community class online at home. Also, I continue self-training every day at Drishtiq Yoga. From now on, I would like to incorporate meditation and restorative yoga into my class. I will continue yoga to keep my mind and body flexible. My dream is to go around the world doing yoga. Yoga is a universal language. Namaste.

Mary Jo Huelskamp

My introduction to teaching yoga came about a bit unexpectedly. I was working in Corporate Health & Wellness. Along with exercise stress testing, health promotion and worksite health screening I taught a variety of fitness classes to employees on a regular basis. These classes included Step aerobics, Spinning and strength training. When I was informed the employees were requesting yoga I was pretty sure this wasn’t the type of “fitness class” for me. My company thought otherwise and sent me to YogaFit teacher training. This was a time when yoga was becoming more mainstream and showing up in the West in all different settings. I was motivated to start because it was my job and I will say I was a teacher well before I was a student. After my training I taught a variety of fitness based yoga classes, similar to vinyasa yoga. I eventually developed my own practice about 15 years ago and have not looked back.

Needless to say I was a bit surprised how well this practice suited me. I was a distance runner training for half and full marathons at the time and yoga felt like the perfect balance to the wear and tear running placed on my body. What surprised me the most was how I was drawn to the practice for other benefits and the physicality and poses became less important. I just remember how amazing I felt after each and every class. I was so calm and relaxed. I was at peace. I found a studio in Wisconsin that was a great fit and tried to practice as often as I could. At the time I wasn’t sure why I craved the practice but I remember wanting to learn more.

Fast forward a few years and my husband took a job in Boston. I was pregnant with twins (I had 2 children already). I needed to slow down since all of the changes my body was experiencing, as well as my overwhelming exhaustion, did not allow me to keep up with my hot vinyasa practice. I had some time away from my practice until after my twins were born and eventually found a studio in Boston. I knew once I returned to my practice that I wanted to experience 200 hour teacher training but it still wasn’t the right time.

A few years later we moved back to Wisconsin, my kids were a little older and I found and fell in love with the studio where I would eventually go through teacher training. My teacher training program was the perfect fit. It was primarily a vinyasa studio and hence the reason you will find me teaching this type of class more times than not. The owners of the studio had so much passion and love for the practice and for the community. Everyone was so kind, supportive and welcoming, very similar to Drishtiq. Going through teacher training brought things full circle for me. I finally understood that yoga was not a fitness class at all, it was a way to presence myself. It was a safe place to step away from the business of day to day life. I felt like I could take a deep breath and become less reactive, more patient and grateful for whatever came up in my practice and my life. It became a lifestyle which I wanted to adapt.

A few years later we again found ourselves moving for my husband's job. This time the move was to Ohio. I searched for a bit and eventually learned Drishtiq was the right place for me. Yoga is all about community and I felt right at home. I loved the variety of classes offered and the fact that everyone is welcome to come as they are. My preference has always been hot or warm vinyasa but I love that Drishtiq offers something for everyone at every age and experience level. I love that the studio isn’t only about the physical practice but about teaching our community that yoga is a way of life. Yoga provides so much. It allows us space to breathe through the tough times. Yoga teaches us how to treat ourselves and others. It provides a way to move with more peace and presence and become less attached to material things. Yoga teaches us gratitude and mindfulness. Drishtiq is committed to not only teaching the asanas but empowering all of our students to live more fully through the practice.

These days you will find me teaching more than practicing but there is nothing I love more than being a student in a class. Yoga is a practice and there is always more to learn. Each and every time I step onto my mat to practice I learn something about myself. One of my favorite parts of the practice is how we end every class with the greeting of “namaste”. It is a salutation of respect and reverence. A way to say no matter what we may be experiencing in life we are more the same than different and I honor the place in you that is the same in me. I couldn’t be more proud to be part of the Drishtiq yoga community!

Namaste

Lecia Robertson

Hi. I’m Lecia. My yoga journey unintentionally began almost three years ago. I had just done a total 180 on everything I had worked for. After working full time and trying to juggle it all (as a mom, wife, friend, etc.), I quit my job of almost ten years to stay at home with my three young boys who were at the time 5, 2, and not even 1 years old. I had been an active runner in college but no longer had time since I was working full time and became a mom. It was what we call life.

When I decided to stay home, I knew I would begin my running journey again. After about five months I began to get burnt out on the same routine and was looking for less cardio and more toning. I switched up my workout routine and started a new HIIT program that recommended yoga once or twice a week for stretching. I had no idea where to begin. I bought myself a $10 mat and started Googling to see what yoga was all about. I found Yoga with Adriene on YouTube. I began to follow her channel and complete her practices a few times a week. She had a large variety of practices that met my schedule and she made yoga fun and enjoyable. Each year in January she posts a 30 Days of Yoga challenge. After completing this, I really enjoyed the experience and was determined to continue to practice yoga daily.

In that time, I started working part time so my yoga was done mostly at night after my kids went to bed. I would carve out just a little time to myself to stretch, relax and decompress the day. Fast-forward about six months after starting this nighttime routine, my husband and children had seen that yoga had become really important to me. For Mother’s Day, they got me a new yoga mat, blocks and a gift certificate to try yoga for one month at Drishtiq. My husband came into the studio and talked to one of the ladies at the front desk and he felt I would fit right in.

After months of continuing to practice at home, debating when to use my gift card around my crazy schedule and to get enough nerve to attend a real class, I finally used my gift card over a year later in September of 2019. My first class was a 10am Hot Vinyasa with Mary Jo. It was HOT, but it was a very memorable experience for me. I quickly learned that I needed towels for the gallons of sweat dripping off of me. I also found that I did fit right in. Practicing in the studio was awesome as well as challenging. Everyone in the studio is there to support you and I learned that whatever I brought to the mat that day was okay, no judgments.

I have now been a member of Drishtiq for about a year and I can’t imagine my life without it. I’ve made time in my life for classes, mostly at 5:30am before my house is awake. I just passed the 200th class milestone this year and I preach yoga to anyone who will listen. It gives me the ability to disconnect from whatever is going on outside those doors, whether it’s at home or at the studio, and focus on me for one hour. Yoga has given me the tools to be able to balance anything life will throw at me. It keeps me mentally sane in my house full of boys as well and gives me the physical strength to keep up with them.

megan bross

I began my yoga journey a little over a year ago, serendipitously around the time of more than a few significant life changes. My husband started a new job, we relocated to the Mason area, and I was at home with a toddler and an 8 month old, with baby number 3 on the way. To say I was feeling overwhelmed would be an understatement. My husband has family in the area, and his cousin (also pregnant at the time) asked me to join her at DRISHTIQ's prenatal workshop. I had never practiced yoga before and found myself initially reluctant to the idea. My husband encouraged me to try it once - I think he knew it was something that I would love. After that first class, I was hooked. I became attached to the feeling of calmness it promoted, and the space it created within me to be at ease. Practicing yoga was time that I took for me. It created peace from chaos and serenity from anxiety.

After our son was born, those same post-move-baby-on-the-way feelings of being overwhelmed were starting to creep back into my mind. I had to take some time off, but as soon as I was able I was back in the studio. I eased back into my journey with several sessions of Gentle yoga classes. That’s the beauty of yoga, it’s a deeply personal voyage where your body and mind direct the flow and intention. The variety of classes that are offered at DRISHTIQ all have their individual advantages, but recently I’ve fallen in love with the Warm and Hot classes. I’ve always been a runner, and growing up I participated in competitive cheer & dance. So - with yoga - it gives me that workout that my body craves as well as centering and calming my spirit needs.

From the first class I took with Jen Casey, I felt completely embraced and at home. Each instructor has had their own way of helping develop me. In fact, the whole DRISHTIQ community is incredibly warm and welcoming. I love coming to my mat and focusing on the present moment along with my breath work. My journey is still in the early stages, but I’m exhilarated thinking about where it will take me. 

karen kendall

Hooray for Drishtiq Yoga! My husband KC and I feel so lucky to have landed in the Drishtiq community. The facility is lovely, the teachers positive and well trained. The community is welcoming, friendly and helpful. We’ve made many new friends and work on knowing others by their name and welcoming people who are even newer to this practice than us.

Our journey began last June. We both have herniated discs in our lower backs and felt as we were getting older is was time to start yoga to help with our flexibility and balance. We’ve always been active with travel, sports and walking through the years but needed something more. I knew I had a core, but not core strength. yoga has really helped that.

After researching lots of options for where to begin, we happily found Drishtiq.  The Beginner’s Class we took lead to taking classes of varying kinds and finding that we are in the right place. Drishtiq is all about yoga and that is the ideal place for us.

While balance still remains a challenge for me, it has definitely improved from the beginning. I used to stumble over just getting into a warrior pose or walking up on my mat. Yoga is not about ego though, so I keep trying and do what I can when I can.

We have lived in Cincinnati for over 40 years and call it home. My son and his family live in Salt Lake City, Utah, with our 2 grandkids Bridger 19 and Kate 17.   It’s too far away but we get there when we can. My mother (who is 93 and an amazing woman) moved here 3 years ago from Newark, Delaware where she has always lived and I grew up. It is great to have her close by.
Can’t thank you all enough for making Drishtiq such a nice home away from home .

CARIN MCATEE

Yoga has been the one source of fuel to keep me going through some very difficult times in my life.  I find the consistency yet ever changing structure of each class to be enough to calm my brain and yet challenge my entire self: mind, body and spirit.  I began yoga in 2012 after a shoulder injury and I found it to be a good way to continue working out and rehabilitate my injury.  I was hooked on yoga but I found I wasn’t growing in my practice anymore as it was a focus only on body and did not include my mind or spirit; nor did I realize all three could be strengthened. 

Neither warm nor hot yoga was able to be done in my original yoga studio, so I tried the 30 day Introduction at Drishtiq. I fell in love with the classes immediately and knew I wanted to join straight away.  Each instructor inserted a bit of their unique personality into each class while offering a greater insight to a deeper understanding of yoga: the mind, the body and the spirit relationship.  Layers of instruction, week after week, I noticed my mind was more aware of my body, my meditation practice grew, I was spiritually stronger in my faith, I was physically stronger and I thought I was emotionally prepared for anything. 

Everything fell apart in 2018 when a series of events caused so much stress in my life that I was physically unable to sleep for months on end.  My mind was unable to focus anymore, anxiety and depression wrecked my life.  I stayed with yoga the entire time at Drishtiq, taking it easy with some of the stretch and restore classes, increased my meditation practice and when I felt ok I took the gentle yoga classes.  I found myself calm during class and without anxiety and the one thing I looked forward to daily.  Many instructors offered words of encouragement, ways to use yoga to improve immune system, food tips and other positive reinforcement that I will be forever grateful.  The community feeling of Drishtiq is also a part of my recovery and I am thankful for the friends I have made through the years there.  Finally the diagnosis was delivered to me 6 months later of why I couldn’t sleep.   It was relieving and the symptoms all disappeared about 2 weeks later, and within 2 months my anxiety/depression was nearly gone.  Since I was sleeping well, I bumped back up to hot yoga classes. 

Life is still chaotic, and ever changing; such as it should be…but yoga will remain my constant and calm in my life for my mind, my body and my spirit.  My goal is to balance the yin and yang of life through practice; a calm among chaos.  It isn’t always attainable but returning to the breath reminds me to just be.  Thank you Drishtiq for moving and growing along side of me for over 2 years.

ben sandor

I have been practicing yoga for approximately 6 years, the last few exclusively at Drishtiq. Yoga has been a savior for my body, mind, and spirit. It has helped me through numerous back issues, made me stronger, and able to live a healthier lifestyle. The instructors and fellow yogis at Drishtiq are like family to me. The studio offers me a safe place during difficult times as a source of comfort during my wife’s cancer battle. I love being able to challenge myself with each class to do something new, and look forward to continuing my yoga journey for years to come!

SYLVIA WILLIS

A couple months ago, I found a journal from 2016 and within the first few pages were a list of goals for myself for the year. The very first goal was to learn how to take time for myself, learn to relax, maybe start practicing yoga. Yoga was on my mind for a very long time, but I never took the leap. I was constantly making excuses for why I haven’t done it yet: don’t have enough time, don’t have the money, too scared of being judged, fear of failing, dropping it after a couple classes like I always did when it came to exercising. I was my own worst enemy.

But this past February I took the leap, and I am so glad I did. At the start of the year, I was going through a rough time trying to juggle working 60+hours a week and dedicating time to my family and friends. I was attached to my phone, answering calls and emails at all hours of the day, and it was taking its toll on me. So, I decided to take the plunge and began looking for yoga classes and studios near me. When I came to Drishtiq and spoke with Donna, I knew I came to the right place, and I left that evening as a member and never looked back.

 Almost immediately after starting my practice, I noticed a difference mentally and emotionally. Yoga is a cathartic experience, and it feels so good to take time out of my day to decompress, even if it is only for an hour. Today, not only has the mental and emotional aspect of yoga continued, but there is also a physical aspect to it as well. Throughout my life, I have suffered from back pain, a curse of being tall and working an office job. Earlier this year, I took a trip to Miami for work, and when I came back my back was in excruciating pain from the plane seats and hotel beds. The day after I came back, I went to a Warm Vinyasa class and left afterwards in (happy) tears because my pain was gone. In addition to relief from back pain, I have gotten stronger. While not an overnight process, I have gained strength in my upper body and core, something I never had nor something I ever thought I would have.

 I hope to continue practicing at Drishtiq and gain more physical strength (and hopefully learn some arm balances and inversions) and to be able to take the yoga mentality and continue to build it into a lifestyle. And, of course, to meet more amazing people in the Drishtiq community along the way!

MELANIE POWERS

My yoga journey began in January 2016 when my friend Lori Falke invited me to try a yoga class at Drishtiq.  I remember that first class, a Warm Vinyasa, being so challenging.  I was sweating profusely, had terrible balance, and was so sore the next day, but I signed up for a 30 day trial membership and quickly became hooked on yoga. The instructors were all so warm, welcoming, and quick to help me with my form.   I had previously been taking step and kickboxing classes and lifting weights at a big box gym, so I was used to exercising, but this was a totally different work out for me. Concentrating on the breathing has been a big benefit of yoga for me.  When I find myself in a stressful situation I remember to use my “yoga” breath and that helps to keep me calm.   

Fast forward to August of 2019.  I have now been a part of the Drishtiq yoga community for 3 ½ years.    I love the variety of classes that are offered and the uniqueness of each of the instructors.  They each bring a different perspective to their class.  Something I hear a lot from the instructors is to set an intention for your practice, so I decided at the beginning of 2019 that I would make getting to my mat a daily, weekly, and monthly priority.  No more poor excuses as to why I couldn’t take a class.  Before I knew it I had completed my 100 oms, then 200 oms, and even my cumulative 500 oms.

I love the community of people at Drishtiq.  I have a sense of belonging when I walk through the studio door and I’m greeted by a friendly face at the desk. The classes are full of wonderful yogis at all different stages of their yoga journey.  I love that you can take a class next to someone that is new to yoga and that they can learn from watching you. 

Outside of the yoga studio, I am married to my husband of 26 years-Dan, and the Mom of 2 boys—Mitch who is 21 and attends the University of Toledo, and Marty who is 14 and a freshman at Lakota West, and I can’t forget my adorable dog Lizzie.  I work 2 part time jobs, drive a school carpool, and take my youngest to choir practice at UC two nights a week.  Life is busy, but I’ve chosen to make getting to my mat a priority for me.

ALEX PATTEN

A little over a year ago, I went to my first ever warm vinyasa class. After the first class, I already noticed hand and back pain receding. A few months after joining, I injured my knee in a non-yoga related accident, and all of the help I received from the instructors at Drishtiq was instrumental in my healing process. Over the last year, I've gotten to know the Drishtiq community, and have found my second family. Every instructor has a unique approach; their passion for giving me an experience that is personalized, has repeatedly grown my interest in pursuing yoga.

Coming to my mat gives me an overwhelming sense of calm and happiness. I re-center myself and just have fun learning more balancing poses. I fall all the time and am not the most graceful yogi, but I love it! I enjoy creating a fire within myself every class with a few extra chaturanga push ups. I love listening to EDM music playlists and with my own playful energy, add some arm balances when I get the chance and just lose myself and have fun with it.

Outside of yoga, I love cooking (especially for others); it gives me the same feeling yoga gives me. If I can do yoga, listen to some dance music and explore my creative side in the same day, it is a day well spent! Everyone has their own journey, and while mine has just started, I savor every moment, and live every day more awake than the day before. My biggest piece of advice for someone just starting out is to keep with it. It's too easy to give up because you think you aren't good enough or are embarrassed by your own physical limitations. There is real community at Drishtiq and everyone is accepted!

daniel mcguire

I have been wanting to try Yoga for a long time now. I have been at it since March.

I have been doing Combat Sports since I have been a kid. I started Yoga as a way to keep healthy and develop athleticism originally. Since then I have learned that Yoga is so much more than that.

Yoga has allowed me to slow down, and enjoy life more, and to reflect. In a world that Is so fast pace, we as individuals rarely take time to slow up for ourselves and to live in the moment.   

Yoga has given me a different perspective on the Combat Sports I train in, which is primarily Brazilian Jiu jitsu. It has given me more ability to stay calm in high pressure situations where most would panic. When I compete in Brazilian Jiu jitsu, Yoga has given me the ability to have a calm mind and be at peace with myself even when in the most hostile of situations. Yoga gives me the ability to create space when no space is given.

There are both mental and physical strength in Yoga.  You learn that the mind and body are one and can act as one. The more you make the connection, the more the possibilities are endless. It has allowed me to deal with the stresses of daily life, in a manner I have never been able to deal with before. I just wanted to say that the instructors at Drishtiq Yoga are fantastic, motivational and detailed oriented.

Betty Hakes

My yoga journey began about 2 years ago as an alternative to boot camp and cardio classes that were injuring my knees, ankle and back. I came into yoga with a goal of relieving pain, and never expected to get a good old traditional “workout.”  I didn’t realize how the Vinyasa flow was going to change my body and how I feel. 

Between yoga, and my 80% vegan lifestyle change, I lost weight, become stronger with toned arms and abs.  The results are more than physical changes in body, but also about how I feel and think about life outside the mat. Coming back to breath calms all aspects of my life, especially during stressful times. Yoga has transformed me inside and out.

What a blessing to have found the Drishtiq community of practitioners and teachers who are non judgmental, helpful and kind.  My goal is to keep my body and mind healthy for the remainder of my years on this earth so I may celebrate life with my family and friends. 

May your yoga journey bring you peace, health and happiness.

Susan Drake

I actually started practicing yoga about 10 years ago back in Chicago, where I’m from. After moving to Ohio I kinda lost my way and my practice. I had always wanted to get back to it but just never did. It was actually my daughter who got me the one month new student pass for Christmas and the rest is history.

From my first class on I was hooked! All the teachers and staff were so warm and welcoming, not to mention knowledgeable, I feel very comfortable walking in the door at Drishtiq, it really is a community!  Besides the wonderful people here one of the things that made me stay on was the fact that I could attend any class I wanted and they are offered all day long! It really fit into my schedule.

I really look forward to coming to class; it’s my “me” time! Once I’m on my mat that hour is solely dedicated to my wellbeing. Being a nurse I know I have to take care of myself in order to better take care of others. I feel stronger, more flexible and ready to take on what comes next. I really believe it has made me more centered and better able to focus on what’s important in my life.

Kristin Wacker

In 2018 I had intentions and expectations to explore yoga again, looking for the physical benefits and physical healing. What I have found practicing yoga, has been so much more.

I experienced a difficult season in 2018. Most relevant to my yoga journey, was a debilitating, traumatic neck injury in March 2018. I am extremely active and the acute debilitation was devastating. I experienced ongoing pain, immobility, muscle spasms, radiating nerve pain and swelling. The delayed recovery was emotionally draining. 2018 felt like a year of defeat. Finding my mat at Drishtiq Yoga became an incredible outlet I needed for healing.

I began my yoga journey with an abundance of physical limitations. Yoga postures and stretches have become an extension and perfect complement to physical therapy and other medical treatment. Specific to my condition core strengthening to support the spine and heart opening exercises have contributed to substantial physical improvement in the past 6 months. I am confident the incorporation of yoga has contributed to my ability to run again. Participating in my first race again, the Flying Pig Marathon Relay.

Physical healing is only 50 percent of the benefits I have experienced.  Practicing yoga has enhanced my emotional, mental and spiritual wellness. Drishtiq Yoga provides a uniquely, special experience emphasizing a joyful environment, support, community and mediation. I love that each instructor is genuine and authentic to her individual style, personality and rhythm. I love there is an endless opportunity to be challenged and experience physical advancement.

As a runner, I’ve always been addicted to the high intensity, mind numbing, endorphin release achieved through running. I love to be constantly in motion. Stillness was never something I had a desire to achieve. However, learning the principles of stillness and breath have become invaluable to achieving more balance and inner peace.  

No matter the season, I have found in practicing yoga is a constant, safe, peaceful nature of unrolling your mat and placing your feet down. I will always find release, center and harmony practicing yoga. And found friendship, community and joy practicing at Drishtiq!

Dave Helm

Dave has been practicing yoga at DRISHTIQ since June of 2013.  The classes he most enjoys are the ones he takes alongside his community of friends at DRISHTIQ!  He enjoys the camaraderie he finds in the Sunday evening classes and takes time out of his day to stop in for a Lunchtime express from time to time. 

Dave is a father of 2 and grandfather of 3 beautiful granddaughters. He loves motorcycle and bike riding. Also an avid golfer and plays racquetball when he's not on his mat. He finds yoga helps warm him up and keeps his shoulders and hips ready for the sports he enjoys.  He has cross paths with people that have inspired him to make yoga a bigger part of his week. Dave has over 74 yoga classes under his belt so far in 2019 and his goal is set to make the 200 Om Club this year. Come celebrate with him! 

Kim Wells

I started my yoga practice about 10 years ago as a means of exercising.  Yoga was always more of a physical practice for me mostly because I was in a fitness center.  About 5 years ago, I started working full time and found very little free time for anything, let along yoga.  I did try hot yoga at some local studios.  I really enjoyed it, but failed to find something that worked for me and my busy life at the time.  So I stopped doing yoga.  Fast forward to October of 2017, I was unfortunate enough to witness a tragic accident a that made me revaluate my work situation that was taking too much time away from my family and my own well being.  I made a decision to change jobs and focus on more important aspects of my life:  my family and my health.  But there was still something lacking. 

In May of 2018, I found myself struggling with being overweight, stiffness in my joints and nagging back pain.   Several months at the chiropractor didn't help as I had hoped it would.  Then, my good friend, neighbor and fellow yogi, Melanie Powers told me she was coming to Drishtiq and how much she loved it.   This was such a huge shock to me since I never imagined Mel liking yoga, let alone being a monthly member.  So I decided that it was time to step back on my mat. 

I attended Drishtiq when it first opened and was only the single heated room.  When I returned, I was so pleased to see the additional class offerings. Stepping back on the mat wasn't easy, but it was the best thing I have done for myself.  I'm thrilled to say my back pain is 90% better than it was in July.  It's not 100%, but I no longer dread that first step every morning and I'm not even close to considering seeing a back doctor.  I'm still not as flexible at 55 as I was at 50, but I have set some goals for myself this year to get some of that back. I want to do a headstand again, maybe even a backbend and I really want to loosen my shoulders up and do binds again. 

I boldly say these things because Drishtiq and the amazing group of instructors who offer a kind, non-threatening and nurturing environment give me the courage to want to try and I know I will be successful. I've even committed to doing mediation one time a week.  It's tough for someone like me who's brain never shuts down, but I'm doing it to help me relax and hopefully start sleeping better.  (My fitness app indicates that I do sleep better when I exercise.)  I'm so happy to be a part of this amazing yoga community.  No matter what, I am going to be successful in my yoga practice.  Thank you for the confidence Drishtiq and thank you Mel!

Jennifer Richter

wendy smith

I still go left when the instructor says right, feel completely awkward as I try to contort my body into something I haven’t done since I was two, and struggle to remember the animal names and poses (let alone how to pronounce them).  Then I look up and notice the gymnast and dancer on either side of me doing a beautiful camel pose, while I look like a dying mule. I cannot help but laugh at myself a bit. In those humbling moments I have the opportunity to persevere without the need for perfection. More importantly, I recognize that the effort of me just being there on my mat, rooting in the present moment—allowing my body to connect physically, mentally, and spiritually—has become a life changing practice for me.

After years of health issues, and most recently diagnosed with an auto-immune disease, I knew I had to make a major life change. I went from being a very active person to someone that could barely get out of bed for almost three weeks—other than making it to the next doctor's appointment. I wasn’t satisfied with the suggested medicated approach to my symptoms, so I started educating myself on my auto-immune disease, natural remedies and mindfulness. I began an Auto-Immune Protocol (AIP) Diet and started taking more regular classes at Drishtiq Yoga.

The instructors at Drishtiq are absolutely amazing and create a warm, welcoming environment. They are knowledgeable, encouraging and very supportive of each person’s individual yoga journey. The wonderful sense of community and friends I have made are an added bonus. 

Practicing yoga is showing me the true strength that is within me. That at my core, beneath aches and everyday stresses, there is a deep desire and ability to heal. Yoga has helped me get my life back and reminds me of the value of living with intention. I am truly grateful to be on this healing journey, and believe each day is a gift we have to create unity between our mind, spirit and body.

Michaela Ruebel

My first memory of yoga was around the 5th grade when one of the cool art teachers decided to offer yoga as an elective class students could take instead of gym class. Not being the most athletic kid growing up, I jumped on the opportunity, and after just one class I knew yoga would always be a part of my life. Since that first class, I've practiced yoga off-and-on in various studios and various cities, but I never maintained my practice consistently enough to really feel the transformation I've experienced now.

Two and half years ago, my husband and I moved to Mason, and it was right before the move that I found out I was pregnant with our son. After being diagnosed with gestational diabetes during the pregnancy, and postpartum anxiety and depression after his birth, it was yoga that helped ground me and calm my anxious mind. After the unexpected loss of my mother this summer, it is yoga that is helping quiet the mind and provide comfort. Yoga is more than just a workout, and while it has transformed my body physically, it is the transformation in mind and spirit that I cherish most.

I'm now a regular in the 5:30am hot yoga class, and I'm just a few classes shy of 100 oms, which I'm sure I'll hit before the end of the year. I walked in to Drishtiq simply because it was close to my home, but I never could have imagined the sanctuary that I ended up finding. I hope to make it to 200 oms next year, and only wish others could find yoga as it has found me. To you all, I say, namaste!

Lisa Tierney

Shortly after DRISHTIQ opened in 2013 I started my yoga journey. I had no idea how yoga would change and improve my outlook on exercising. I only saw yoga as a way to exercise, get in shape and lose weight.

At first I was intimidated coming to DRISTHTIQ, mostly by being one of the older students in class and not being able to move like most. Once I started really listening to the instructors and doing what they were teaching by encouraging to be present on your mat, surrender to your body and do what feels good for you, did I realize that yoga is more than exercise.  I started to listen to my breath to guide me, slow my poses down till I felt strong and comfortable, rest when needed and enjoy moving.

 I find each DRISHTIQ instructor brings their own uniqueness to class and for that I love the variety, their passion, humor and music. They are welcoming, committed to their student’s practice and for that it is teaching me that yoga has so many benefits. It is a community that helps me to enjoy yoga, challenges myself to live a balanced life. It is spiritual and healing at times, really hard at times and joyful too. 

Thanks to the DRISHTIQ community, I have found that yoga is something I will do forever because of the physical and mental wellbeing it gives me. DRISHTIQ is teaching me so much that I look forward to coming to my mat as much as possible. I also have found the confidence to practice yoga while travelling and proud to share about my hometown studio.  Yoga came in to my life for many reasons and I continue to see the benefits, challenges and grateful for those who are on my journey with me.

Jeana Olszewski

My yoga journey began about 8 years ago after I ran the Chicago Marathon. I was proud to have accomplished my goal, but I was burnt out from all the time, effort and thinking that had gone into training.  I tried making new playlists, bought new shoes and ate more protein bars. Nothing worked and within a few months of being bored and uninspired, I knew what I had to do: Break up with running. After saying goodbye, I began to look around at other options, feeling certain that nothing would compare to the love I once had for running.  I am a Montessori educator, and at the time there was a parent in my class that taught hot yoga. She invited me and a coworker to come and try a class at her studio.  There were multiple levels of yoga classes offered. My friend and I both thought we were in pretty good shape, so we signed right up for the advanced flow that our student’s mom taught. How difficult could it be, right? It was “just yoga”. Of course, we got whipped in that class! We left feeling both exhausted and exhilarated, and we were hooked.

     I followed that teacher to Drishtiq and became a member immediately. When I started doing yoga, I would make the challenging classes a priority and would not work the restorative or gentle flows into my schedule. A few years ago, I got deeper into my practice and realized it wasn’t just about getting whipped every class (which is still awesome!), but it is about finding a balance and recognizing the gifts that a gentle flow can bring. The variety of classes allows me to do what is best for my body and spirit on any given day.

    Although my yoga journey did not start with Drishtiq, it certainly is where I have embraced it, and it has brought more to my life than just a physical practice. Being a mom of four and working full time, I don’t always get to volunteer or do service for the community as much as I would like. The community class on Sundays fills my heart. It allows me to support the current teachers in training (aren’t they awesome for taking the challenge on?!!) and the money raised from the donations goes to Project Yoga, which provides yoga to communities that are in need. I love that Drishtiq is part of a broader network that serves, and that we as students can be a part of it.

    Lastly, I have to acknowledge my sweet family as an important part of my journey. They absolutely get it when I bolt out the door right before or after dinner and they let me go guilt free. THAT is an amazing gift! I am so fortunate and grateful to have a family at home that encourages me to go, and a family at Drishtiq that embraces me when I get there. I look forward to all the blessings I know this yoga journey will continue to bring.

MULLIKA PANDIT

Junior year. Basically every high schooler’s hardest year. College visits, ACT, SAT, APs, etc. I actually have to start thinking about how to be an adult. At least I can drive! On top of all of this, I play on the varsity golf team. Playing golf after sitting in school for 7 hours is not ideal. It’s tight and uncomfortable. But you know what does help? Yoga!

Yoga stretches are incredibly beneficial for golfers. Simple poses, such as Triangle or Down Dog, help stretch my calves, hamstrings, back, and shoulders.  Being flexible is so important for a golf swing. Ever since I started working at DRISHTIQ and taking classes, I’ve noticed my flexibility improve greatly. So has my golf coach! Yoga has opened my hips and allowed me to rotate fully through my golf swing.

Stretching isn’t the only thing I’ve learned from yoga. Different breathing exercises have allowed me to calm my mind when I get stressed during the game. I can feel myself relaxing as I breathe in and out after a bad hole.

So if you’re having trouble with the smoothness of your swing or getting in the right mindset for a game of golf, head to DRISHTIQ and take a yoga class. You’ll be surprised to see how much just one class can help!

For a long time, yoga was nothing more than a workout to me. I practiced off and on at different studios and gyms but never stuck with it, until I found and joined Drishtiq in July 2017. Over this past year my practice has evolved into more than just an exercise routine. Yoga has become a way for me to not only feel physically strong but emotionally grounded. Don’t get me wrong, I still love those hard to hold arm balances and attempting to contort my body into funky positions, but I keep practicing for peace in times of chaos, for mental clarity in times doubt and for the connection I gain with myself each time I step on my mat. It’s been a way for me to break down my barriers and push me past my limits to find a different kind of strength.

  I didn’t find yoga during a tough time or because a life altering event. I found yoga to fill a void I didn’t realize I had. It has been a long and winding road, with a few bumps here and there but it has been beautiful. I'm grateful to have found such a wonderful place to evolve my practice and continue my journey for years to come.

In 2015, at age 54, I tried yoga (hot power flow) for the very first time and loved it!  Not only had I never sweat so much in my entire life, but I really enjoyed the workout.  That’s when I started incorporating yoga into my regular exercise routine.  Years of running, boot camps and fitness classes left me feeling increasingly sore and achey.  Yoga sure doesn’t.  It makes me feel my best, both physically and emotionally. That’s why in 2017, I made it my primary form of exercise.  Added bonus…my husband, John, loves yoga too!  We try to practice together as much as possible.

One of the things I love most about doing yoga at Drishtiq, aside from how good it makes me feel, is that each practice can be what I need it to be for that day.  There’s no judgement.  Just do what you can do, and that’s good enough.  It’s an amazing workout, never the same, challenging, relaxing, introspective, builds confidence and flexibility, and it’s just plain fun! 

Every time I practice yoga with the wonderful Drishtiq instructors, I take away something that they’ve taught me or some wisdom they’ve imparted, and I try to incorporate that into my everyday life and each practice going forward.  I am so thankful to have found this studio!  I truly appreciate the warmth, the sense of community, the instruction, and the friendships that I hope will last a long, long time.

Outside of yoga, I work part-time as a licensed assistant to a financial advisor.  I’m a mom and a grandmother and hopefully a dog-mom (again) sometime soon.

After many years of an on again off again relationship with yoga, one of my best friends recommended getting serious about my practice.  The suggestion came after a particularly difficult period at work - my stress levels were high, I was tired all the time and I didn't feel good in my body.  After reading a ton of reviews I decided to try out the DRISHTIQ studio as a new year's resolution, but woke up on Dec 22nd 2016 wondering what was magical about January 1st and decided I should start that day.  I wandered into a Thursday morning flow class and was instantly reminded of why yoga is so fantastic.  I felt amazing!  My head was clear, my shoulders relaxed for likely the first time in months, and I could breathe.

Over the next twelve months, I made it my priority to get into any class that fit my schedule.  Sometimes that meant I was at a gentle class at 7p at night, and other days I was yin-yanging with Deb at 9am in the morning.  Before I knew it, my name was added to the 100 om list, then the 200 list.  As a frequent business traveler, and out of town a minimum of four days each week, I began to miss my practice while away.  When I discovered the virtual and recorded classes, I bought a pair of Yoga Paws and started practicing in my hotel rooms. 

Over time, I felt my body getting stronger.  I started attending the guided meditation sessions to elp me hone in on mindfulness.  Both the increased strength and focus on my mental state gave me confidence - I started dabbling in warm classes, then hot.  I lost 15 lbs that year with no other changes to my diet - primarily because my stress levels were back in a normal range.  I've recently added journaling and use the Headspace app to help with meditation when I travel.  When in class, I really listen to the guidance the teachers provide, and do my best to take the lessons out of the studio into my life.

To say yoga has helped me is a massive understatement.  I am more centered, I am stronger, I'm a better boss and a better mom.  I cant say enough how much my practice, and all of the amazing instructors I've had the privilege of working, with have done for me. 

TRICIA CROAKE- ULEMAN

I am married with three children; 18, 16 and 13yo. I am also a physician and own my own medical practice. I started practicing yoga in 2000 after the birth of my second child when I thought I may never leave the house again without help. I started getting up at 6am to do yoga with John Ross on the Oprah channel. I had always played sports and worked out but between work and motherhood I had little time to do the physical activity that I enjoyed. As the kids got older and my love of yoga grew, I started going to yoga studios. I found that I loved yoga's ability to destress and center me as well as balance my triathlon training and keep my aging body limber and healthy. I wanted to learn more about yoga so I completed the Baptiste 200 hour RYT training. I use it to teach family and friends and deepen my own practice.  I am very thankful for finding such a wonderful community in Drishtiq. The people, the energy and the practice feel like home. Thank you Drishtiq!