What a year! When it started I had a lot of plans. I had a full-time job I generally liked, but I felt it wasn’t right for me. I was teaching a lot of evening classes which I loved, but I always felt like I am on the run, from work to yoga or to pilates. I had been getting enquiries about corporate classes that I had to refuse due to not having any free evenings. More private clients were calling about special classes and I had to turn them all down.  I knew it was time for a big change, time to finally start doing what I love and give hundred percent to my passion. I discussed the finances with my supportive husband and decided that I am going to open a studio in September. Little did I know…

Early in the year we’ve heard about a strange virus, but it was all so distant… until March! Remember empty shelves in the shops and the Taoiseach telling us on Paddy’s Day to stay home? I think we were all a bit scared, a bit shocked, and a whole mix of other feelings. Holidays got cancelled. Schools got closed. There was no work for most of us, or only working from home. My job went down just before the lockdown and for couple of days I was hoping I would have more time to work on my secret plans.  Then there were no classes, no gatherings – and I haven’t worked since (except for a very short break in the summer). At the end of March, we realised we had covid-19. Other than being under the weather it was nice to spend two weeks at home together in a way.  I started teaching couple of semi-private classes online. It was great to stay in touch with those of you who joined but also at times it was super frustrating when technology disappointed.

I am an introvert and I thrive at home needing very little social contact. But at times it was lonely to spend days only with my cat and fish. Those online classes were the highlight of each day and each week. It is amazing to share the practice, but even more amazing to have a little chat in a group and in private. Some of you shared a lot with me, some gave me great feedback on classes and ideas for new ones. I am extremely grateful for those conversations and I really appreciate the time I’ve spent with you. You all made me believe that what I thought was just my crazy dream is what many of you need. A place of escape. A place where our community meets and shares practice, energy, and thoughts. A place where we can exchange experiences and grow together, as a community and each of us as a person. A place through which we can share what we have in our little costal town with people from all over the world.

So, I am walking into 2021 determined to start the international retreat and a studio. I am a bit apprehensive, very uncertain of times and unsure if it will all work out. I don’t know if I have it in me to work long hours and study at night (by the way, as many of you know, I am a first-year student – thanks so much for all your kind support!) I am afraid I will lose the little money I’ve managed to save. However, I am even more excited and happy that I will be doing something that is important to other people. Something that hopefully will make some of you happier, even if only for an hour. So please keep your fingers crossed and say hello in my online classes. I will be giving you updates on all the progress. Let’s have a year full of hope and joy!

Your yoga and pilates teacher

K8