This week we we shared the love with several first timers to NPO. We planked to near perfection in order of birthdates; then Cupid shuffled our way through a workout of heart racing bench jumps and Vday ups, regularly taking relationship breaks to pair up with a new partner and bust out some burpees, partner pushups or curtsy lunges. Once our hearts were sufficiently racing, we were led through a relaxing cool down by one of our beloved members who regularly shows up for her community, her friends, her loved ones and herself. Let us introduce you to Lara.
When I moved to Central Florida a year-and-a-half ago, I had two goals in mind: 1. Rock my new job and 2. Make friends. As a TV reporter and anchor, my job takes me around the country for short contract stints, and it can be hard to find “my people” in a new place. Plus, Florida was the farthest I’d ever been from home.
At my first November Project workout, I was greeted not with handshakes, but with hugs. That was it. I had found “my people.” For me, November Project has always been a safe space, a welcoming environment, the kind of place that makes you feel good even when you’re tired and cranky.
Since living in Florida, I felt compelled to do something new with my life but I didn’t know what. It was a friend from November Project who encouraged me to get my yoga teaching certification.
Now halfway through my 200-hour YTT (yoga teacher training) program and three days after a new half marathon PR at the New Orleans Rock N Roll (1:55:19!!!!), I led Wednesday morning’s burnout. Our awesome co-leaders, Angel and Dyani, asked me to offer yoga for everyone. A few child’s poses, cat cows, hamstring stretches, wide-legged forward folds and shoulder assists for each person (“motorcycle handlebars” is what we call it in YTT, otherwise known as “amazing massage awesomeness” to the general public), and the workout ended in more hugs and high fives as so many people thanked me for a relaxing five minutes.
I was so happy to hear “That felt so good!!” and to be able to share something so special with a community that has been so special for me.
We’re thankful for your hugs and high fives Lara. Keep rocking that job and those fitness goals!
Love,
Your People
Reminders:
- New buffs are in! Only $5 gets you the fresh new design.
- Congrats to everyone who traveled to New Orleans and participated in or cheered at the Rock ‘n’ Roll race series. Creating and crushing PR’s. Continue to #runhappy! We’re proud of you!
Can we have this in the Clermont areas?