Celebrating 6 Years!

Growth in the Grove is celebrating 6 years of classes as of today.

Our first session was called Nature Yoga, and was held along the shores of Georgian Bay in a 10 x 20 tent, filled with blankets and lights. A class of 6 enjoyed smudging, a short nature walk, a yoga practice with hands on support, and an after class music session and hangout. This was also my first time teaching a class outside of my Yoga Teacher Training.

On June 1, 2016 - Growth in the Grove was officially launched with the intention of connecting people with themselves and nature.

I was only 23 at the time, and wasn't sure what this adventure held in store for me. People often told me that it was a phase in my life and that I would likely give it up in a few years. My family did their best to support my dreams and goals, with a side of cautionary love. The community around me was hesitant - they didn't even consider that they could possibly learn from a 23 year old, even without knowing me and my story... or they took a class with me when I was heavily into Power Yoga, and I never saw them again. There was a lot to learn, and no one to teach me. I had to learn about running a business, working with social media, connecting with the community around me - all while trying to find my voice and purpose.

Ten years ago, I would have never guessed that I would be running a business and helping people to discover their wellness through Yoga, Reiki and more. I would have been in University, enjoying being away from home and partying with my friends - and studying Social Work at the time. I always knew that I wanted to help people and animals, I just never knew how that would unfold. But it was around that time that I came into Yoga through online classes that I could do at home. And I discovered a whole new way of healing and acceptance.

This type of journey does not come without unique challenges - I had to really accept and see myself at all times; I attempted to work with others and found that I needed things to be a certain way; I struggled with the idea of competition and so much more. It took me a long time to find my stride and what worked for me; and to truly open up to my own voice and passion. My goal is to help even just 1 person to feel better about themselves, to feel included, heard and seen; and to support them as they create a new wellness routine - and most importantly to make time for themselves in this busy world.

Growth in the Grove has been a baby to me in many ways - something to look after and grow in a way that I felt was right. It's gone through numerous changes - I once wanted to have many teachers, but soon learned that each teacher has their own unique message that they are trying to pass on; a logo change last year that feels better suited to what happens in the grove; and a change in how you can experience classes with the addition of the Grove Tribe - plus all the amazing additions of Reiki, Aromatherapy, Nutrition, Coaching, Meditation and of course the ever popular Deep Inner Wellness Program. I think it's important for things to grow, adapt, and change over time - we have to keep growing and learning... and breathing.

6 Years of running Yoga Classes and Reiki Healings has taught me one important lesson - to always march to the beat of your own drum.

What have you enjoyed in the Grove? Do you have any favourite memories? If you are open to sharing, please comment on this post or send us a message. We would love to hear how Growth in the Grove has impacted your life.

I want to say Thank You to all of You who have supported me over the years, even if we don't connect anymore, and to those who continue to work with me. It's been a real pleasure being able to get to know you, to have your trust and support, and especially to laugh with you during a practice or to see the vulnerable sides of you. Thank You for being an amazing Grove Tribe Member in the past, present and future.