This journey of life is wonderful, mysterious, and ever-changing.  Remaining aligned and in the flow of the universe requires continuous contemplation and investigation on our parts.  In order to continue fulfilling our deepest desires and foster our growth and transformation, we have to delve deep into our hearts, stay attuned to our inner landscape, and remain open to receive the gifts of life to skillfully navigate the world in which we live.  Often, as we evolve through our experiences and insights, our path changes as well.

When my desire to open a yoga studio was still just a formless thought, I was in a class with my teacher, John Friend, founder of Anusara Yoga, and he talked about kula, community of the heart.  At that moment, I knew that was what I wanted to create, a loving community where like-minded people could come together.   I knew that I would move forward to make my dream a reality and that I would call my studio Kula Yoga.  My heart and soul went into manifesting this vision, and Kula Yoga opened its doors soon after.  I was full of excitement, enthusiasm, and trust in the universe.  Now, 5 ½ years later the community that I dreamed of is a reality.  I did not do this alone; it is with the support of so many.  "You are the company you keep, so keep good company", Douglas Brooks.  I have been blessed to be in great company these past years, and I thank each and every one of you.  It is because of you, the students and your dedication, the talent and commitment of the teachers, and the devotion, love and passion that Terry has brought to the studio every single day that this community has grown.  And the best part is that the community we've created together is a community of people, not a place. 

It is with a bit of sadness and a lot of excitement that I am writing to tell you of some big changes.  Kula Yoga will remain open at our current location through the end of July with a full schedule.  At that time, we will expand the community beyond the walls of the studio.   Although the studio space will no longer exist, the community will continue. 

Zoey Trap and Kathryn Coyle, co-owners of Innerspace Pilates and Yoga, share the same vision that I had when I opened Kula Yoga, one of providing a safe place for the exploration of your greatness, learning about yourself from the inside out, and taking these insights from the mat into life in the loving embrace of a community of like-minded people.  I am delighted and honored to continue this journey with them, and you, at the Innerspace.  They have just moved their studio to a beautiful building less than a mile from Kula Yoga, at 17 West Main Street in Avon.  They have done a lot of renovation, and the space is magnificent.  With open arms and hearts they joyfully welcome us - teachers and students from Kula Yoga - into their already thriving community.  Together, we will continue to transform, share, and expand into an even greater kula. 

I am thrilled to put my attention on my true dharma and passion: teaching.  I will offer all of the same classes that I have been teaching, Monday and Wednesday mornings from 9:30-11:00, and Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30.  I will also still offer an Anusara teacher training beginning in the fall and Immersions at the Innerspace.   Additionally, they have many individual rooms for private sessions.  I will have more time to offer privates, special classes and workshops, and, hopefully, more weekly classes. 

Many of the teachers at Kula Yoga will be making this move together with me and will be teaching at the Innerspace. The students enrolled in the teacher training with me will continue to offer free community classes.  Visiting teachers who were scheduled to come to Kula Yoga will now be offering their workshops at the Innerspace.  These teachers include Andrew Rivin in October (note date change from July), Deb Neubauer in December, Todd Norian and Ann Greene in January 2011, and Desiree Rumbaugh in July 2011.  Stay tuned for details.

The continuity of the offerings that were at Kula Yoga will move just down the road will be enhanced by all that is already offered at the Innerspace.  They have wonderful yoga and Pilates teachers, and this will allow you to explore and develop your practice, bringing you to new horizons.  This harmonious relationship between the communities of Kula Yoga and the Innerspace perfectly align because of our joint vision.  As we close one door, we walk through another, as the universe always provides us with what we need to grow, transform, and explore.  Remember, "Your current safe boundaries were once unknown frontiers" (author unknown).  As these two communities come together to unite and expand, I feel the same excitement, enthusiasm, and trust that I had when I opened Kula Yoga.

This was not an easy decision for me, and was only made after many months of contemplation on how to best serve the community as a whole.  Zoey, Kathryn, and I have spent much time in discussion and planning to create the perfect balance of offerings, to join our talents drawing from the strengths of both communities, to best serve you, the students.  You are the reason that we want to share what we know, to help you to experience the depth of your own heart, celebrate the beauty in your life, and feel joy which is your nature.  We do this by offering support, care, gentle guidance, and love.  I look forward to continuing this journey with all of you, beginning August 2nd at the Innerspace!

With deep gratitude and love,
Julie