Recognizing Funky Buddha Member Jessica M. as January’s Student of the Month for her dedication to herself and her practice over the past year. You’re an inspiration to many, Jessica!
Nominated and written by Funky Buddha instructor Laurie. Here’s Jessica’s story:
“’Yoga has saved my life.’ –Jessica M.
Just about a year ago, Jessica had never practiced yoga before until she forced herself to go to an ABC class, then another, then, terrified, she took a Basics class. Now, one year later, and 100 pounds lighter, (yes, ONE HUNDRED POUNDS) yoga is a way of life for her.
‘I did this for me, and also for my “shorties” (son 6 & daughter 3 ½). If I didn’t take care of myself and empower myself, how would my daughter learn it?’
Now, when she practices at home, her kids will strike a pose along with her.
Jessica doesn’t really like to talk about herself, but recently felt compelled to share her story after class, which is just too inspiring to not share with everyone. It really hit her a few months back when she was carrying two, 40 lb bags of salt pellets into her home. She stopped dead in her tracks and set the bags down.Tears welled in her eyes as she realized that the 80 pounds she was struggling with was the same amount of weight that she had lost this year.
‘I will never forget that moment. That realization was profound. It was meant to happen just as it did.’
What I love about Jessica is that her story means so much more than a number on a scale, it’s a life transformation.
‘Yoga has changed how I look at life, at family, friends…everything. It’s a spiritual awakening. I’ve understood the concept of living an authentic, organic life, but I didn’t really get it until I looked within, to love myself. When I get done practicing yoga, I feel like myself, like I’ve peeled away the layers of debris, and found my true self. When I tap into my inner, true self, I’m SO excited for the future.’
When you come from a clear place where you love yourself, it’s easier to drop things that aren’t serving your higher self, including relationships.
‘I’ve dropped a lot of weight in that department as well. Now, everything I do, I ask myself how it will affect my practice. From the food that I eat, to what I drink, to how I spend my time, to how much sleep I get… it’s all a factor.’
She doesn’t claim to be perfect, in fact, she’s human, and humble, and imperfect, just living with an awareness that she’s never had before.
Jessica never thought that she’d take a Power Vinyasa class, but she does now, regularly.
‘When I’m in class and holding a difficult pose I hear what you’ve shared in class, that everything is temporary, and I get into my breath. Then I tell myself, You can do anything! Look at what you’ve done already!‘
Jessica practices 3 days a week in the studio, and maintains that her commitment to yoga, and abstaining from fast food and soda is key to her success. Also, it’s the love and support from her husband and mother that have made this possible.
‘This yoga is part of our family budget. I’m a better wife, mother, and person through yoga.’
Jessica works right across the hall from The Funky Buddha, at Tonic Salon. Many of her long time clients ask about her transformation, and she just points towards the door, ‘It’s yoga.’
Congratulations, Jessica! Shine on.”
These students have built a support system and family together. There are three moms (Patti, Rhonda and Michelle), wife and husband (Marc and Jaimie) and the twenty-somethings (Katelyn and Teddy), but none of that matters come 9am.
