As a plus size woman, I was initially worried about trying to do yoga. While I’ve always been rather flexible, I wasn’t sure that I would be able to do a lot of the poses. I had never taken a class before and only knew a little bit about it. Thankfully, I was blessed to have two instructors that gave me the confidence to try regular poses, as well as some advance ones. Aerial Yoga is LIFE! The joy they have in practicing yoga shines through and allows others to have an amazing practice.
Whether it’s a super challenging pose (*cough* Headstands cough) or going through a warrior dance, they are always willing to let you know how well you’re doing, if that hip took a dive, or offer you a modified version to allow you to get through. Namaste…right here on this mat with you ladies!
When I first began exploring yoga, I stumbled upon Topeka Yoga Network during their collaboration with NOTO for Saturday art and yoga sessions. After my very first class, I was hooked. Even with very little yoga experience, I was able to follow the cues, and that made all the difference. The classes were accessible, fun, and still managed to challenge me.
Over time, I tried many other classes elsewhere, but I always found myself wanting to return to TYN. Back then, they didn’t yet have a studio, so I searched for and pursued private sessions. When the studio finally opened, it felt amazing to have a home for TYN—and I signed up right away.
The classes have helped me feel better in so many ways. They've strengthened my body, reduced my stress, and inspired me to get up and do more. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. I never felt self-conscious if I couldn’t quite get a pose. It’s warm, friendly, and inviting.
I’ve told others that it feels just like home: come in, share some time, let go of the day—or get ready for it in a morning!
When I decided to try yoga again in my thirties, my very first class was taught by Evelyn at a different studio. I instantly fell in love with it and especially how it made me feel afterwards. I noticed that I was more relaxed, yet motivated and focused at the same time. I continued classes off and on at different studios for the next 7 years. Then I decided that I wanted to learn more about it and signed up for the teacher training with Topeka Yoga Network. After signing up, I began taking classes at the studio and loved it! It is beautifully decorated and peaceful. I also noticed a difference in how I was being instructed when transitioning into different positions. There were more cues that helped you get into the positions safely and easier. Once my teacher training started I began to learn more about the different cues and how they protect you from injuries as well as benefits that your body can receive. I noticed my body changing and I was becoming stronger. I had more muscle tone than I had had in a long time.
Evelyn and Mary made the training so much fun and easy to maintain the information. I really enjoyed learning not only about the physical aspects of yoga, but also the different philosophies that can help you in day to day life. I am truly grateful that I was able to train with these two amazing instructors that really care and made it such a positive experience.
I have continued taking classes through Topeka Yoga Network and nothing has changed. It remains to be a welcoming, positive, and safe environment to practice yoga.
Practicing yoga at Topeka Yoga Network is one of the best things I have EVER done for myself. I went through teacher certification with Evelyn and Mary more for learning about my body and taking care of myself. As a part-time resident of Kansas (my home is in Colorado), the majority of my classes are virtual. But, it amazes me that whether in person or virtual, the classes are wonderful, and I always feel nurtured by the practice. But, more importantly, I always feel like I am part of a unique and comforting community. Everyone knows you by name and welcomes you. I have never before experienced that in any other yoga community.
When I first started going to Topeka Yoga Network they were offering amazing classes at Stormont Vail. I had no idea what I was doing since I had only attended a few classes years before at other locations taught by other teachers. But Evelyn and Mary had a way of making sure the class was not only a safe space but fun! When I retired I was so happy to discover their studio downtown.
Each class was a new experience of yoga poses that I thought I would never achieve but I did. When I did my first side plank I was amazed! My core strength is better and my legs feel stronger.
They also have other amazing teachers that teach classes! It is a network of amazing yoga teachers!
When you walk through the doors of Topeka Yoga Network you feel like you are among friends!
Let me begin by saying I have tried a lot of workout videos and DVDs over the years. Jane and I have stepped together, Richard and I have sweat to the oldies and Billy and I have done power workouts. It wasn't until I went to my first yoga class that I found the perfect workout for my body, mind and spirit. I was 60 years old when a did my first yoga practice and was skeptical about doing it because of my age. I was able to start with a class of beginners which put us all at the same level. I also had two amazing instructors who ALWAYS made trying new poses or moves exciting. Always providing new and fun routines. And always making sure we were doing poses correctly. Over the past three years, by doing yoga, my body has become more flexible and stronger, from head to toe. I have also learned proper breathing technical to help me through my practice and also during stressful times.
Yoga will help you strengthen your arms, legs, back and best of all, your core. I wish everyone would try yoga... they would be hooked for life!
Since starting to practice with Evelyn and Mary, I’ve noticed that my posture has improved, it’s easier to go up the stairs at work, and I’m recovering more quickly after jogging. The guidance during our practices helps to ensure that I’m using proper form, too.