BlissPowered Yoga Studio - Calgary

All I knew was that I enjoyed sports while growing up and still loved being competitive. The idea of going to a gym had always turned me off and yoga was not on my radar at all. I had seen a documentary on Diamond Dallas Page and his yoga journey, yet I still thought it was primarily for bendy skinny females. Well I was wrong!

Of course, I ended up eating at an All You Can Eat sushi place for lunch and then wound up at my first class a few hours later, which was of course a hot class. I was nervous about all sorts of crazy scenarios happening, but I survived and enjoyed myself. I was intimidated but enjoyed the challenge. I was intrigued by the intensity of the postures and enthralled by the calmness of the breathing. It was a refreshing feeling of pushing myself, breathing through the discomfort yet having to be so laser focused that any outside distractions were gone. The ability to just be mindful of my body, my breath and my movements and being able to let it all go and relax at the end.

My career has me working with people who use drugs and alcohol and who are often experiencing homelessness, which can be quite challenging. Having time to myself to release stress, sweat a lot and try to grow has been wonderful.

When I first took a class with Leanna I thought she was lovable but crazy with her love for boat poses and stamina challenging core classes. However, I realized she did it all with love and I hope everyone can experience it. Her reassurance, passion and determination to see other people engulf themselves in yoga is remarkable.

I lost 100 lbs the first year of doing yoga and being mindful of what I ate and would not have done it without encouragement. I have no doubt her love transcends through her studio and the teachers she allows into that space. I hope to see you on your mat there.