Although it may seem that most of our students are "middle aged" (however you may define it!), we are happy that students of all ages call Gudmestad Yoga Studio their yoga home. And, we thought it would be fun to hear from one student, representing each of the decades - 80s, 70s, 60s, 50s, 40s, 30s, 20s and teens, about why yoga is important in their life. So, in their own words...

Carol Fyfield (83, retired "renaissance woman" and current Meals on Wheels volunteer for 30+ years)      

I was inspired to start yoga by a beautiful person who was a yoga teacher. I continue to remain as strong and flexible as possible - to slow down the slowing down. 

Mary Beth Van Cleave (75, retired elementary school principal and current partner with Grace, her golden doodle, as a Pet Therapy Team, spreading joy at a senior center and convalescent home)      

I feel more than blessed to be strong, flexible, confident and optimistic. I give much credit for enjoying life at 75 as much as I do to my beloved yoga teachers who are the best in their field and who care enough to really know me. Thank you all!!! 

Liz Kellogg (63, school psychologist and ultra runner)      

I have practiced yoga at Gudmestad Yoga Studio for 12 years to improve my flexibility and balance, to minimize running-related injuries and to address problems caused by scoliosis. I'm fortunate to attend classes with my life partner because we can process physical challenges and changes we notice, and this also makes maintaining a regular home practice both more interesting and more likely. 

Merrill Hendin (53, school principal)      

I've been practicing yoga, on-and-off for about 20 years. It is something I always come back to for the peace of mind, flexibility, and all around good feeling I have when I do yoga. Now that I am back for physical therapy at the studio, I have a feeling that I will be starting classes again when I'm able. I look forward to getting back to regular yoga practice at Gudmestad Yoga Studio where I know I will be in good hands! 

Alex Gorodisher (40, engineer)      

Yoga was instrumental in rehabbing me from a major accident. I started yoga in my early 30s for stretching and said I wanted to ignore the rest of the stuff. But the rest of the stuff gave me the breathing, body awareness and focus to get me through the bigger challenges life has thrown at me. 

Stephanie Edman (35, massage therapist and bicycle fitter)      

I began attending a regular yoga class because after years of cycling my muscles were so tight I was having daily back pain. Over the years I have found that a regular practice provides a calm place for me to discover balance not only in my body but with my mind and that mindfulness has bled into all aspects of my life. I am so grateful to have found a yoga home at Gudmestad with such insightful teachers. 

Alison Reilly (25, social media manager)      

I do yoga because I feel like a new person after every class! Even after a year of class with Michael, I'm still surprised by its ability to positively affect my mood and change the way I feel. 

Kathrina Bisceglia (18, student and musician)         

I know that many people my age would not be interested in spending time each week stretching and breathing in yoga class, however, I have found it to be a rewarding investment! I not only feel wonderfully relaxed and free of tension at the end of class, but I gain ideas on how to keep my body feeling balanced the rest of the week, too, which enables me to enjoy and live an active life to the fullest.