Yogabomb - Long Covid

In my world the longest lasting effects of Covid 19 are most apparent within my business.

What a shit couple of years….

But has is all been bad?

We have had to learn how to adapt the business to online, providing recorded classes on our website, starting a Youtube channel, and then live streaming to our yogis. Unfortunately the hot yoga part had to stop - unless yogis at home cranked their heating up (but not with today’s prices)….

We found new private clients, people who wanted to continue their practice and needed that one to one situation to get them onto their mat each week….

We also found new online clients from different cities, towns and countries. Yogabombers were popping up all over the world! It has been lovely to be able to practice with different teachers, studios, reconnecting with yogis that you may have met in a different time etc….

And now we are all travelling again, Yogabombers can log in to their fave classes from their holiday locations! So it has not all been bad…. having to roll out of bed onto the mat was a bonus too!

But it has been tough

The hardest part for me has been the connection, the energy, teaching to a computer screen rather than real people. Keeping the enthusiasm and motivation going when the internet fails or the sound drops.

I LOVE teaching real people. Having yogis in the same room, uniting breath, energy and movement together IT IS MAGIC. It is slowly coming back, it will get back to where we were before the pandemic, but we just have to be patient.

The cost of living is hitting people hard at the moment. Yoga classes are maybe an expense that is not essential (except in my book), online yoga is free and plentiful. People have changed their habits, tried new things, moved away from yoga perhaps.

Small businesses have been hit hard. We are fighting to keep going. We are fighting for customers and trying to offer new things, what people want.

When your business’s USP is HOT YOGA it’s really shit when the energy companies hike up the cost of electricity! Maybe we need to try ‘not so hot’ hot yoga for a while!

The repercussions from covid are immense, it’s a bit like a continuous wave that just keeps coming in and out. But we will stand strong and ride the wave

Life is like a wave, you can choose to ride it or get crushed by it - SADHGURU

Yogabomb Lockdown

One of our lovely Yogabombers sent this to me today. This reminds me of why I love Yogabomb and the community that we have built. I am truly grateful for every yogi who has rolled out their mat at the studio or, more recently, at home joining one of our online sessions

I cannot wait until the doors can be reopened and we can enjoy the space together again, until then, stay safe

Much love

Lou. xx

“I don’t really do social media other than pictures of the kids and acro, but having watched Lou battle with the technology to deliver an amazing yoga class today, I want to thank her and the team for being there all through this crisis. You’re continuing to keep me sane.

 

Anyone that knows me well knows I’ve had a challenging 12 months. Throughout all of it Yogabomb has been my safe place, somewhere to lose the plot when needed, without judgement and with unfailing support from the amazing community there. 

 

I was so anxious when the studio closed for lockdown, worried that I’d lose what I’ve come to depend upon so heavily, but 2 months in, have to say I was worrying about nothing.

Of course I miss physically being with everyone (and the heat), but I’m quite liking the option of turning off the video and practicing where no-one can see that I look like a porcupine. My practice has surprisingly improved in a lot of ways – I’m listening more to instruction and my own body, although struggling to quiet my mind ☹. 

 

My class choice has been determined by what fits around family, and I wanted to particularly thank those whose classes I’ve made it to…

Lou for reminding me to breathe

Clare for helping me chill – I’m beginning to like yin 😊

Dora for making me think about my alignment and listen to my body when it says stop. Astonishingly I now do

Marci for helping me stay flexible and the chakra cleansing… I think you’re psychic!

Becs for the abs…

Tracy, Emel and Caitlin I’ll try harder to get to your classes too.

 

I’ve also realised that yoga without YB people is just exercise for me… and I can’t wait for the day we can practice together again in person. I miss the community. 

 

And I really want the studio to survive this crisis. Lou and her team are doing an amazing job of holding things together, but they really need our financial support to help everyone who has lost so much of their income survive (including Lou who has had no income for months). 

 

I suspect Lou’s going to hate me for saying this, but my beautiful friend has worked so, so hard to create her amazing studio and support so many of us, and I want it to be there when we’re all allowed back.  

Please support the on-line classes through Mindbody, or donate if you can when using the YouTube ones.  They’re depending on us now, just as we depend on them”.

Steph Hogg

Yoga Stops Traffick

What is Yoga Stops Traffick?

A one-day global yoga event created to raise awareness of and funds for the anti-trafficking organisation Odanadi Seva Trust, a pioneering anti-trafficking organisation based in Mysore, South India. Odanadi works for the rescue, rehabilitation and reintegration of trafficked women and children. For the past 25 years Odanadi has been committed to providing a safe haven for survivors of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, slavery and domestic abuse.

On March 15th 2020 Yogabomb is going to donate all proceeds from classes in the studio to this amazing cause. One of our lovely yogis, Jane Leach, who volunteers for YST came to me one day and told me all about this amazing charity, it wasn't a difficult decision to get involved.

Below is an interview that I did with Jane incase you’re interested!

Lou Harrand is the awesome face behind YogaBomb, a state of the art, custom-made hot yoga studio based right in the heart of the city of York. She has incredible energy and a real lust for life after becoming a survivor of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami whilst on honeymoon with her husband Greg. 

YogaBomb opened its doors in 2015 and since then its evolved and grown into a real community space offering around 30 classes a week plus alternative workshops including Gong Baths, Reiki and Pinch my Ass-ana! to name just a few.

As well as being one of our amazing Yoga Stops Traffick official sponsors, Lou has also agreed to donate all of the proceeds taken at YogaBomb on the 15th March to the campaign.

More information on classes and the wonderful events at YogaBomb can be found here: 

http://www.yogabombyork.com/

Read on for an inspiring peek into her life….

Why has your company chosen to support our global campaign Yoga Stops Traffick?

One of my students, the lovely Jane, comes along to classes at Yogabomb and introduced me to Yoga Stops Traffick as she is a marketing volunteer for the campaign. Having young children myself, I wanted to be involved with this campaign. The stories of the women and young children in Southern India are so shocking, I believe that by raising awareness and opening the world’s eyes to these situations, we can make a difference if we all shout loud enough. Having a yoga studio enabled me to provide a channel for Yoga Stops Traffick to be heard in my community. 

What is your role within the company? 

Owner 

What does your typical ‘work day’ look like?

Yoga, coffee, yoga, more coffee, admin, mum taxi running after my 3 children! 

How did you come to the practice of yoga?

After being caught up in the Asian Tsunami 2004 I really struggled with my mental health. A good friend introduced me to yoga and I was instantly hooked. It was further down the line that I realised what an impact a regular yoga practice was having on me mentally as well as physically. 

What impact has regular yoga had on your mind & body?

Yoga has helped to maintain my upper body strength and I am able to relieve stress and tension from my body physically, staying supple and without joint pain! Mentally – yoga helps massively, it helps to keep me calm and focused. I definitely notice if I miss out on my mat time! 

Which is your favourite yoga pose?

Probably headstand, I love to turn my world upside down, and it is so energising. It helps me to make decisions and gives me a boost when feeling sluggish. Also, we store toxins in our legs which need a good flush out every now and then! 

How else do you practice ‘self care’ in your life?

I have regular acupuncture, use herbal medicines, meditation, energy healing and have a huge (ever growing) collection of crystals. I have made some big changes to my life over the last couple of years, prioritising myself and the impact has been immeasurable. I also have an amazing group of women around me who are my lifeboat friends and keep me grounded. 

Who/What has been your biggest inspiration?

My children. They inspire me to be the best version of myself possible. I want to be around for their future. 

What do you think is the biggest issue facing the global yoga community?

There are so many sidekicks to yoga nowadays, everyone is trying to reinvent the wheel and yoga is so huge, it seems to be that everyone wants to jump onboard. It is becoming too commercialised and everyone wants to be a yoga teacher or an ‘Insta Yogi”. I believe that this is taking away the true essence of yoga. Yoga is the union of mind, body and breath. We need to keep this close to our hearts and remember the foundations of this beautiful practice. 

What’s on the horizon for your company?

More of the same. I don’t want to expand or franchise. I love the personal feel to Yogabomb, I don’t want to lose that by going too big. Yogabomb is a true community of normal people who come together to practice yoga, all holding space for each other, it is wonderful to witness, and to be a part of. 

What message would you like to give to everyone taking part in Yoga Stops Traffick 2020?

Together we can make a difference! If all yogis across the world give a little of our time and energy to this amazing cause, imagine what an impact we could have.

Thank you for taking time to read this and I hope that you can join me in the studio on March 15th to help make a difference.

Namaste

Why Retreat?

The Power of Positivity 

Reset, recharge, and re-connect

Why is a yoga retreat what you need?

In our daily lives, we give so much of ourselves; whether that be to our job, our family, or our friends. It is far too easy to let everything get on top of us and cause us to feel emotionally drained and physically exhausted. Sometimes, to stop ourselves burning out, we need to take an opportunity to give something back to ourselves. An opportunity that allows us to rest, recharge, and re-connect with ourselves and nature. By spending time in the great outdoors, around positive people, and nourishing our bodies with good food and exercise, do we give ourselves what we deserve and need when faced with daily stresses. When was the last time you did something for you? 

Research shows that not only does attending yoga retreats improve overall wellbeing, they also help to increase positive emotions, ability to manage stress, and life-satisfaction. 

Join us, Tracy and Lou, for a yoga retreat near Barnard Castle and allow us to provide you with a space where your health and wellbeing will be placed at the centre of your day. 

What is included? 

Vigorous vinyasa yoga

Restorative yoga 

Meditation/walking meditation

Gong bath

Women’s circle

Oils workshop

Power of positivity workshop

Vegan and gluten free food

Hot tub use

Cost: £395 per person*

*additional cost for single supplement room

What is additional?

There will be an option for massage, reiki, and reflexology

The retreat will commence at 2pm on Monday 16th September and close at noon on Wednesday 18th September. 

Yogi Of The Month

Every month at Yogabomb we celebrate our yogis and give one of them a free month of unlimited yoga. These yogis are chosen by the teachers but can also be nominated by their fellow mat dwellers!

Here are a few facts about some of our yogis of the month!

Cheryl Lewis – April 2018

Yoga always comes to me when I need it and I feel very committed to Yoga, Nidra and all the Events and Workshops available. Yogabomb inspires me to learn to be in the present whilst keeping fit at the same time. I only started my dedicated Yoga Journey since August 2017 and already I am reaping the benefits of this lifestyle.

Fun fact: I love Unicorns and Mermaids and I am quite happy spending time when not on a Yoga mat Colouring in. I love Meditations anything where I can close my eyes and imagine. That’s why I am very much looking forward to the Reiki Attunement day  and the Chakra Flow Workshops as well as the Gong Bath and Yoga Nidra. Cannot wait to begin this journey learning how to heal oneself and others. 

My intentions for Yoga is to simply enjoy it regardless of whether or not my body is feeling very lazy and simply cannot be bothered. Or whether I am totally engaged to my Yoga practice on the day.

My favourite Yoga Pose is any that involves lying down ready to nod off. My favourite thing about Yoga is always the meditation at the end. The strangest thing about Yoga for me is many years ago when I was doing Yoga at Quakers Friends Meeting House during a meditation I got a glimpse of an insight or visual making me question there is a lot more to Yoga than what I am given it credit for. 

As I have got older I totally understand how special, spiritual and meaningful Yoga is. I am really getting so much more from attending Yoga at Yogabomb and the opportunities available to me. As well as the beautiful friendships I have made. 

I seek inspiration from many things / people one of my favourite memories is staying at my cousins house surrounded by David Bowie posters, his 45’s and all his albums. I appreciated from a young age it’s okay to fall in love with an idol you admire. I had the same teenage crush on Duran Duran’s Simon Le Bon. However, David Bowie always has had a special place in my heart. May he rest in peace. 

I am not sure if this is an appropriate song for a Yoga Playlist. One of my favourite songs (several) is David Bowie’s Ashes to Ashes. Absolutely love him and I adore this song. 

Diana Szeplaki - June 2018

Fun fact: I used to go to the cinema ask the time so much so I watched the same film 10 times – Avatar at the time. 

At work or at home on my couch watching interesting documentaries or listen to Tony Robbins or Deepak Chopra

Yoga gives me peace and quiet and I love the heat. Wouldn't do it without the heat. Not keen on the flows rather do random poses and hold them for ages on the heat and lots of meditation.

Kate Thompson – September 2018

Not sure I have a fun fact! but I am usually the first to hit the dance floor and the last to leave….

When i’m not on my mat you can find me teaching art and all things creative around the city. I also run my own up-cycled clothing and jewellery business called Unostar. If I am not being creative i will be on my bike, in the pool or on a dog walk! 

My intention for starting yoga was to regain my flexibility and to help with menopausal symptoms. I have found much needed headspace after losing both my parents in 2012, yoga has helped me to heal and i feel that my journey has only just begun.

My favourite yoga pose for stretching is the pigeon, even though my hips scream at me to stop!!

The River by Groove Armada should be on every yoga playlist..

Creativity drives me forward as a person. I admire strong women who support each other. I love music and am always dreaming about festivals in far flung places, this keeps me inspired. 

I have been practising hot yoga for just over 2 years and it has greatly improved my mood and hormone levels, it seems to be my re-set button for the week.

Felicity Hawksley – October 2018

Fun fact about me: I have a photographic memory but I will forget your birthday

When not on your mat etc: I spend at least three hours a day on Clifton Backies with the dog so it's statistically likely you'll find me there

What is your intention for yoga practice: To keep having fun and surprising myself!

Favourite yoga pose: PISTOL SQUATS hah! No...side crow with eagle legs probably

What song should be on every yoga playlist: Definitely Janelle Monae's 'Yoga' but for some reason I can't fathom Tracy won't put it on her playlist!

What/who inspires you: honest answer, got to say the writer Robert Caro, who in a feat of incredible intellectual persistence has so far spent 36 years writing a masterful, balanced and fascinating five part biography about Lyndon Johnson...I never said I was cool. 

How long have you been practising yoga: 10 months

How has yoga/yogabomb improved your life?: practising yoga has definitely changed my perspective on improvement - I have had to accept that there are things I can't get good at just by putting in more physical effort. And Yogabomb has taught me that falling on your head is not really that bad...and it's given me friends and a lot of laughter

Miriam Piper – November 2018

When I’m not on my mat I can either be found lost in the great outdoors hiking or watching a gig (and warming up) at The Crescent Community Venue.

My intentions for yoga practice change depending on the day; sometimes it’s to create heat and sometimes it’s to calm my thoughts. Whatever it is I try to be open minded and accepting, even if it includes numerous pistol squats.

Favourite pose I can currently achieve: dwi pada viparita dandasana (two-legged inverted staff pose).
Favourite pose I’m currently working to achieve: kapotasana (king pigeon pose). Did this last week at home after your class and falling out of a half handstand, I don’t think it counts.

Song:  Power flow insomnia Faithless, Orcestra Poly Rythmo de Cotonou: Se Tche We Djo Mon or The Foals What went down.
Anything else: Porz Goret: Yann Tiersen

Inspiration: everyone in our little community and the small actions of others outside of it.

I’m not a hippy dippy yogi however I came to yoga through mental ill health and physical I’ll health 10 years ago, I had been diagnosed with Graves’ disease and thyroid cancer. With a resting heart rate of 180bpm it was debilitating. My mum told me she’d turned to it after a breakdown to calm her nerves and help her reflect. I’ve never looked back. It has helped through some of the most difficult times of my life to ground me and let me meditate to process and it has been there at the best times to strengthen what I already have in body and mind. The true holistic healer.

Yoga bomb has an ethos of yoga for normal people. Something that I hold dear is that any human could benefit from this practice, you don’t need a mat, a sports bra, a home. This studio seems to hold community so highly, we laugh, cry through Tracy’s flows and feel warm in our bellies from Marci’s nidras. This collective spirit is what continues to draw me to this exceptional place.

Steve – December 2018

Fun fact about you - l like wild camping on mountains with no tent - just a bag, mat and the stars

When not on your mat, where can you be found? work /bike/longboard/mountains/forests/beaches

What is/are your intention/intentions for yoga practice? To try and absorb as much and push as much as i can

What is your favorite yoga pose? hmmm, still learning so many new ones but the Crow is fun

What song should be on every yoga playlist? anything space ambient

What/who inspires you? Good & honest people who are wise enough to appreciate that we are all on this planet together

How long have you been practicing yoga and how has yoga at Yogabomb improved your life? About half a year, Yogabomb has been totally inspirational on a both a yoga practice and personal level - big thanks & love for that!

Elley – January 2019

Fun fact about you

I used to live on an island that got cut off from the mainland twice a day.  

When not on your mat, where can you be found?  

Walking my boxer dogs, playing tennis, cooking, head in a book, outside in the sunshine, or driving my 4 kids somewhere! Offering support in the family business.

What is/are your intention/intentions for yoga practice?  

To gain physical strength and mental equilibrium.  

What is your favorite yoga pose? 

Headstand and Reclining Hero pose are equal favourites.

What song should be on every yoga playlist? 

Flames (acoustic version by David Guetta & Sia) and Angel (Sarah McLachlan) for Shavasana.

What/who inspires you?  

Nature inspires me.  Strong yet kind people inspire me.  Too many to insult by singling out a few!  Anybody who fights to better them self is inspiring to me.

How long have you been practicing yoga and how has yoga at Yogabomb improved your life?  

I started yoga 3 1/2 years ago as one of Lou’s guinea pig pupils before she opened Yogabomb.  I was up for a new challenge but had no expectations.  Yogabomb has massively enhanced my life.  It provides a space for me to escape all of my responsibilities and focus on my own wellbeing.  I always leave the studio calmer and more collected.  I am hooked on ‘hot’ yoga and love the different classes on offer and the eclectic Yogabomb community!

Tracy's Training......

The Heart of Yoga

“The principle means of yoga is relationship.” (Whitwell, p.82)

Imagine the perfectionist trying to find the perfect place to do the perfect yoga teacher training? Yup, that was me. Deliberating over the perfect type of training but also trying to find a moment of stillness from doing a PhD to make doing yoga teacher training possible. “Just go do it!” was the advice of many, however, with the limited amount of time, it wasn’t that easy. Fortunately, I had built up a great amount of experience teaching yoga and had a wonderful mentor, Lou. She empowered me, believed in me, and provided me with opportunity to teach before I was actually a “yoga teacher”. Fortunately, I was encouraged and supported financially by Lou which made the step to becoming qualified a little easier.

Once I handed in my PhD, I waited to find out the date of my PhD Viva. I would love to say I used the principles of yoga and practiced patience but I didn’t. I called numerous people at the university demanding to know the date so I knew when I could “go away to India and do my teacher training”. Finally, with much persistence, I was presented with a date which gave me a short window of three weeks between conferences and presentations where I could fit in teacher training. I found one in Costa Rica which fit the bill: Yoga Revolution Academy with Anabel Miranda. At that point, I had less than 2 weeks to book the course, book flights, and get cover for my regular classes.

Fast forward two weeks:

I land in Costa Rica, spend an evening in the big city, San Jose, at a quirky hostel after being conned in a taxi as the driver charged me about 10 times the going rate. The next day I ran around San Jose to take in the “sights” (i.e., I bought all sorts of yoga inspired jewellery from local artists and did handstands in any park I could find). Then my large backpack, yoga mat and I embarked on the public bus to Jaco, the surf town. I had a day before everyone arrived for the course so I got acquainted with the area (stumbled across a surf competition, and spent time doing yoga by the pool.) I had dinner at a local restaurant and ate the local cuisine. Bliss.

Yoga Revolution Academy 2019

I don’t really know how or where to start to describe my experience. It is difficult to explain what this training gave me, but as I think of my experience as a whole, I feel my eyes well up and my heart grow bigger and lighter. What it gave me was a place to be myself, love myself, and be loved by eight beautiful women. To me, this experience was not really about the yoga but about letting go, becoming lighter, and learning to be okay with being me.

The course leader, Anabel, is a wonderful spirit, who held a space for us to share, cry, learn, and grow. My goal at the beginning was to learn all the Sanskrit names for poses. By the end, I realised this was my ego, and that, although it may make me a better teacher, many “normal people” doing yoga do not need the teacher to introduce poses using the Sanskrit name. For some, it actually puts them off. My goal at the end was to continue to be me and reflect this in my approach to yoga.  

Of course, two weeks away, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses. The first day I got really bad sunburn (I am Scottish) and couldn’t sit in lotus at the start of the course because the tops of my thighs were red raw. I got ill (verging on the flu), but instead of taking my usual route (i.e., ploughing on and trying to fight it), I rested while the girls went into town. Also, I didn’t realise that Senna tea was a laxative so after a couple of days, I had…well…issues. The most amazing part of these “not so pleasant” experiences was that I let my yogi sisters care for me when I needed it and cared for them when they needed it. Whether it was my room-mate Sydney sitting in her underwear playing the ukulele to me, or Laura providing me with charcoal tablets and collecting aloe vera plants to soothe my sunburn. The experience was one in which eight women from different areas of the world came together and cared for each other. Emotionally, there were many tears, and many stories shared.

There were many highs. Most mornings I would get up to do my own practice at the studio and be greeted by monkeys in the trees or brightly coloured toucans. Alternatively, I would go a run with the lovely Mary and do handstands on the beach. As a group, we hiked in the hills, saw macaws flying together in the sky, and practiced yoga overlooking the beach and ocean. We watched surf competitions, practiced yoga on the beach, and watched the sun set. We ate the most incredible vegan food. Emphasis: the food was AMAZING. Meal time was when I would be silent (yes I know, it does happen), enjoying every bite, and then by the end of the course, I was Trashcan Tracy scooping up any leftovers! We went for half-price sushi, ate a quirky vegan café, and learned how to make dosas. We learned about different postures, adjustments, body alignment and anatomy. We each had to teach breathing techniques, part of a class, and a full class. We chanted, sang, and I experienced my first “ommmmmmm” while teaching. We learned about principles of yoga, the Gods, and chakras. We read, we wrote, and we reflected. We learned to love ourselves, be ourselves, and love each other. I can pretty much guarantee that every person left this training feeling lighter and fuller of love with a sisterhood for life.

This was an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life. 

Winter is here....

It’s already coming up to the end of November, it’s darker and colder, and I am definitely feeling the need to hibernate!

We celebrated Yogabomb’s 3rd birthday at the start of November as well as opening up the new chill out space. We have had a crash course in coffee making and retail, but seem to be getting the hang of it - if slightly wired from testing our coffee a bit too often!

Our 3rd birthday celebrations were awesome. 3 beautiful yogis, Joanna, Helen and Katie, from Edinburgh’s Yoga Got Hot came along and took over the studio, delivering amazing workshops and a lot of love and laughter. We BELIEVED….. we glowed, flowed, danced, laughed, cried, saluted the sun (108 times at least), opened our hips and hearts, balanced in ways we never thought possible and had our very own Yogabomber Jules as our live DJ.

So much love filled the studio all weekend, thank you to everyone who made it possible and who participated in the workshops.

I cannot believe that Yogabomb has been around for 3 years. Over 3000 yogis have attended the studio over this time - Gail and Jo have probably attended 3000 classes too! I am so fortunate to have such an amazing crew of teachers who share their love and expertise with our yogis 7 days a week. Each one having their own speciality, bringing something different to the mat. I love and thank you all from the bottom of my heart - Namaste Y’all

A big shout out to each and everyone of you…….

Alli Feehan - Reiki Master, Andrea Brook, Bruno Richard, Caitlin Pollock, Clare Plunkett, Clare Burgon, Claire Maguire - Kundalini, Eleanor Coles, Ellie Culhane, Emel Duff, Emma Leaf, Freida Nipples - Burlesque, Grace Young, Ilaria Grando, Joanne Merlini - Transformational Yoga, Julie Cooper - Gong, Katherine Griffin - Reiki, Kate Wiggins, Laura Bough, Marci Stuchlikova, Matt Yates - circus & handstands, Tracy Donachie, Yoga Got Hot crew, Lexie Wrightson, Lucy Cook, Katy Simpson, Paulene Scott-Dyson, Harrie Quarrie, Helen Cottingham - Pilates…..

if I have missed anyone I do apologise, you are all AWESOME

HERE’S TO THE NEXT 3 YEARS AT LEAST - ONWARDS YOGABOMBERS!

Lou. xx

As I sit here updating my website (long overdue), I suddenly realised that I haven't done a blog for flipping ages!

I'm not very good at writing things down, i'm much better at talking at people, I'd say I'm an expert at talking...  So what to write about?

My last blog - which I didn't actually write - was in March.... so maybe I should write about what has happened since then.  But March was such a long time ago, so much has happened since then, both in the studio and in my life.

So I'll start by talking about an event that happened over the last 6 months that has impacted me the most.......      Here goes.....

Possibly the greatest life changer started on the last day of February.  I decided that it was time to go sober, to give up my daily wine habit.

As a studio owner most people think that you live the yogi lifestyle, eat green things and do lots of yoga.  Some studio owners probably do, but that certainly wasn't the case for me.  I was stuck in a rut of running around like a mad woman trying to hold together my family, run a business, organise 3 children, 2 dogs, 2 cats, fit in some exercise (as teaching yoga doesn't count) and keep myself sane at the same time.  To be honest it didn't really work.  I would arrive home after various children's activities or work, then start on household stuff.  This normally involved me losing my temper and getting frustrated with anyone/thing in close range of me, and I would inevitably reach for the bottle to calm my frazzled mind.

Half a bottle of a full bodied red seemed to do the trick, but by that time I didn't want to stop.  Half a bottle turned into a bottle, then a bottle turned into a bottle and a half...... you get the picture.  Full bodied reds go really well with chocolate so that became part of the process too.  I was drinking on average 10-12 bottles of wine a week - to myself

When I read it out loud now I am amazed and shocked that I was still able to function on a daily basis.  So many people have asked me why I have stopped drinking rather than just cutting down, the problem was - I couldn't cut down, I'm an all or nothing kind of girl!  Honestly, I was a highly functioning alcoholic.  I was able to still function as a mum, I got the children organised and to school on time with the correct equipment.  I still got to the studio to teach my classes - the first down dog was an absolute killer.  Any excuse to start drinking and I would be the first one ordering the wine and nominating Greg to drive us home, it didn't matter which night of the week it was, I was always up for a bottle or 2.

What people didn't see was me fast asleep on the studio floor after finishing the morning classes, or me staring at my reflection in the studio mirror, vowing not to drink again, or the amount of times that I passed out on the sofa at home by 9pm, too drunk to get upstairs.  What people did see was the front that I put on every day, the fake Lou that I presented to the outside world.  I only let a very few people in to see the truth, as my shame and self-loathing were through the roof!

It really did have to stop, or I would lose everything.  I read a quote once...

Why keep one thing and lose everything when you can lose one thing and keep everything?

This rang so true with me and along with lots of other reasons (which I won't go into now at the risk of you never speaking to me again) I decided it was time to change

So i quit drinking..... cold turkey...... 168 days ago and according to my handy app, that is around

• 1022 glasses of wine
• 204 bottles of wine
• £5100 saved - expensive taste!
• 127800 calories not consumed

That is shocking!  And the same as when I quit smoking (15 years ago), I now can't believe that I did it.  

Why?

I still have a long way to go with my headspace and finding self-love but i am getting there and becoming the best version of myself possible is now actually looking possible!

I am starting to become comfortable in my own skin, I actually don't mind seeing myself in a mirror or a photograph.  Probably because my skin is now so clean and healthy looking and full of colour.  My eyes seem to sparkle again and I have energy - all day!

It hasn't been easy at all.  The wine witch is always close by, ready to give me a 'fuck it' ticket and pour me a glass of wine.  But I am staying strong and so far have had the strength to say no

I didn't intend on sitting down and writing this tonight.  I was just updating the staff profiles on the website.  But obviously it was the right time to share part of my story with whoever chooses to read this.

Yogabomb has been fundamental in getting me through the last 6 months.  The studio itself, the energy it has, the teachers, the people that turn up on their mats.  I wanted to create a space for normal people to practice yoga - hence the "yoga for normal people" tag line - I am a normal person, affected by normal problems.  I'm not a typical yogi or an instagram yogi.  But I am a wife, a mum, a daughter, a sister, a studio owner, a yoga teacher, a friend.  I am grieving the death of my dad last August. I also wanted to create a space where normal people would feel safe and included, where they would find compassion or quiet time,  where they could push their boundaries and step out of their comfort zone if they wanted to.  Normal people.... I'm not actually sure what that means now.  I guess my point is that I am just like the next person, and at times you have absolutely no idea what is going on in other people's lives.  So the next time you attend a yoga class, or go to the gym, or sit in a cafe, don't judge the person next to you......you have no clue what is going on for them at that moment in time.

Thanks for taking the time to read this, it means a lot. xx

A poem for Clare....

This blog is a ‘welcome back to the studio Clare’ with a poem about Hot Yang written by my good friend Naomi Good.  Naomi has recently been on an “urban retreat” in York in which she attended three classes a day.  I asked her if I could share her poem and she said yes.

Brought my ego to the mat.
Looked in the mirror and seen my fat.
Compared myself to others 26 times in 1.5 hours.
I struggled to remove my self doubt.
I hid in a corner to keep me safe.
As tears and sweat ran down my face.
6 breaths in & out to set you up for the day.
Anxiety - you take my breath away.
Push, pull, stand up straight.
I'm leaving this one up to fate.
“Look backwards - you won't fall”.
A loving voice, I heard you call.
Some days this is hard to do.
I stay on the mat as I have faith in you.
Awkward pose you ignite anger within, but I'm learning to take it on the chin.
Twist like ropes, line everything up
Squeeze it in, suck it up.
The only party where it's socially acceptable to drink H20.
Forget all your worries just breathe and let go.
You challenge me the most as I am forced to lock my knee and face my eyes in the mirror.
As I catch a glimpse around "we’re in this together"
If I don't kick hard (just like in life), I will lose my balance and fall out...
I must try again and remove my inner doubt...
Couldn't touch my ankles, now I can grab my feet
Yoga you are my spiritual treat.
Capital T not a broken umbrella
You brighten up my life like the summer weather.
It’s hard to breath and keep my arms up straight
But you opened me up to the possibilities of strength over hate.
DANDAYAMANA-BIBHAKTAPADA-JANUSHIRASANA - standing head to knee
Good for the immune system and taking care of me...
Life's continuous battle to rise from my knees...
Who knew the answer was to stand like trees...
Toe stand develops mental strength, brings calmness and peace to my head...
As I lay down and pretend to play dead...
2 minutes of nothingness my time to be grateful for my body and health..
Dropping the ego and getting rid of self...
Pull my knee down with all of my might
Life is a journey, not a fight...
Outside this room, it feels lonely and grey.
Savasana seems to keep that feeling at bay
The energy in the room keeps you going..
You do your sit up and realise you're not alone.
Cobra before I was introduced to you I didn't have a spine..
Now you help me with the strengthening series, my body, and my mind...
When I'm on my back and breathing nothing else matters,
My life suddenly becomes clearer and my body is not in tatters...
A tortoise lives so long perhaps because they take their time,
it's not a race, it’s to heal the body and the mind...
Camel challenges me to find comfort in the uncomfortable when my face is red,
It gives me clarity in my busy head.
With practice I'm certain I can deal with any situation,
Hot Yang, you are my moving meditation...
In rabbit pose, I cry secretly from emotions which arrive at the surface,
I cry into mat and question my purpose.
I reflect that I would run as fast as a rabbit when I couldn't cope,
Yoga, you have helped me and restored my hope...
When I arrived, i couldn't reach my feet but you made my arms seem longer
Yoga, you’ve made my ambition stronger...
I sit up tall, twist, look behind at my past, I acknowledge where I've been...
Another breath and stretch into the unknown and unseen...
KAPALBHATI IN VAJRASANA
I feel overwhelming courage, love and compassion.
I've even grow in size which helps me 'hang up the washin'
A final lie down to reflect and be grateful for the teachers from all over the world who encourage me to change and grow.
A special shout out to the yoga teachers, for your continued effort and the love that you show.

Clare will soon be teaching Hot Yang on Wednesday 730-845pm and Friday 7-8am. If you would prefer some Yin in your life, she will also be back teaching the more restorative type of yoga on Thursdays 715-815am! 

Namaste! 

Tracy Donachie
MSc, BSc

In response to Tracy's blog.....

Tracy's blog on International Women's Day was so full of emotion and honesty, it moved me to tears.....  Then there was a response from Naomi Good, one of Tracy's good friends which completely finished me off!  I have posted it below for you all to read.

Ladies like this are why Yogabomb exists and why we should all celebrate International Women's Day.  Having a strong group of women around you is absolutely priceless.  Not all of them are strong at the same time, but by taking it in turns to support each other, the bond just gets bigger, better and stronger.

If you are free on Thursday lunchtime at 12.30pm come and join us for a fierce women's circle at Yogabomb and celebrate with us.  Just sign up online or text me and i'll book you on, it doesn't cost anything, just come and spend some time with other fierce women!

---

Beautiful.
I can’t put into words what this girl has and does for my mental health and well-being. A gift from God, one might say, but then again, in Yoga we are working on that ego, so let’s just say, a gift “).
I remember visiting York when, Tracy started looking into Yogabomb. She’s done weird and wonderful things in her lifetime, but perhaps searching for a way to make the world a nicer place for humanity. I admire this, but I often wondered when my friend would put the breaks on. Does her bike even have breaks?
Since Yogabomb I’ve noticed a dramatic change in Tracy. It’s like she’s found peace and purpose for herself whilst looking to fix the world.
Her passion and desire to help other people become the best version of themselves is more powerful than ever, as she is taking the time to focus on what ‘Tracy needs’. I’m really glad, because, I she was an inspiration before and since allowing herself some handstand and freaky yoga postures, she has found a deeper and more meaningful connection with the universe.
Tracy’s effect on the world is very evident, when you see the way people communicate with her, they are happy, relaxed and there is a sense of warmth and acceptance. Isn’t that what everyone wants, to be accepted?
I came to Yogabomb for a Yoga blast last year and again this year whilst visiting and I was dragged to classes with Tracy, often 3 times a day, but I didn’t complain because I trust in her, I trusted her judgement of all the amazing teachers at Yogabomb and at a trying time of my life, it helped me get over a hurdle.
Lou, is an absolutely lovely and genuine girl. I haven’t had a chance to get to know her, but the place she has created is something really remarkable.
I search always for something, to fill the dark space in time and it's in that room.

Thank you for taking care of my friend. She is in safe hands and I don’t ever have to worry, maybe a little concerned that she will run off to the circus to become a bendy performer but other than that.
Great place full of great people.
Well done Tracy. You have found your calling. Yogi for life
Down with the dogs x

---

You are more than welcome Naomi, we will look after her.  Tracy is an absolute diamond and it is her time to shine

Namaste Yoga Bitches

Happy International Women's Day to all of the fierce, amazing women out there!

International Women's Day 2018

International Women’s Day takes place on Thursday 8th March and is an opportunity to celebrate women and their achievements. You can celebrate the day by spending time on your mat alongside any woman of your choice. Yogabomb are offering you the opportunity to bring a fellow (wonder) women to attend class with you for free.  All you have to do is text their details to 07960011617.

Additionally, we are hosting a Fierce Women Circle, which is also free . All you have to do is sign up online through the Mindbody app or text07960011617 to reserve your spot!

Let's celebrate everything about being a woman. Yogabomb is the perfect place to do this. 

The Yogabomb studio is like no other. In many studios, you will find yogis in isolation, everyone clinging onto their own space, in their own bubble. You may observe the silence in the room, bodies lying with eyes closed in savasana or buried heads in child pose waiting for the class to begin. You may notice minimal interaction between yogis, perhaps only quiet whispers among friends who are attending together. You may notice the teacher enters the studio when class is scheduled to start.

This is not what you will find at Yogabomb.

What you will see at Yogabomb is nattering amongst yogis, people helping each other with their mats, or even supporting each other in poses. You will observe women tidying up the shelves and helping newbies get acquainted. You will notice energy in the room which is hard to describe with words. You may see the teacher interacting with yogis, either asking them about their day or telling them stories about the last Yogabomb night out or the funny things they have said during class (or maybe that’s just me!) You will, without a doubt, observe friendships blooming. You may notice people staying for double classes and sharing coffee in the break in between. You will notice women lending other women props or simply sharing stories about their sourdough bread baking. Mainly, you will find a place where most women are struggling with something but have found a place where they can either share their struggles or simply be silent on the mat in their own bubble in a room full of other amazing women (and sometimes men). If you are part of the Yogabomb community, I suspect you will know exactly what I mean and know that the uniqueness of Yogabomb is very hard to describe.

Thank you to Lou for creating such an amazing environment and for the female fleet of teachers for creating a supportive and empowering space.

After I wrote the above part of the blog, I turned to working on my PhD (or at least I tried to). With every minute, I questioned my ability. My mind became discoloured with self-doubt. I was struggling to keep information in my head and formulate paragraphs. As the time drew closer to my yoga session, my anxiety and anger towards myself, my PhD, and anyone in sight was reaching a peak. I contemplated missing yoga. Then in trying to do too many things at once - speaking on my phone, saving work, packing a bag - in a manic state, I scurried out of the office onto my bike. I got half way to yoga and realised I forgot my yoga kit. I looked at my watch and I was already later than my desired arrival time. I contemplated just going back to the office and continuing to work. Instead, I turned my bike around and pedalled as fast I could to retrieve my leggings from under my desk. As I pedalled quickly back to studio, my mind was swirling “should I just go home and work?”. My anxiety was at it's peak. My chest was pounding. I arrived to park my bike. I knew I had made the right decision. Yoga was where I needed to be.

What I observed was three newbie yogis exchanging telephone numbers so they could attend a class together. I smiled. I entered the packed room in a frenzy and a fellow yogi waved to a spot beside her. I was greeted with smiles and friendly faces. I smiled. The yogi, Rachelle, gave me some calming oils to put on my wrists and we chatted. I smiled. My heart rate started to slow down. “I am here”.

We started to flow and with every pose I felt calmer. I observed my breath and made my inhales and exhales as long as I could. I focused on every posture. When it came to bridge and wheel, I gave my usual internal reaction “oh no”. At this point, Rachelle and I were facing the back of the room. Therefore, when I pushed myself into wheel, I was now facing the front of the studio and glaring at another yogi. We laughed, we smiled and I said “peekaboo!” I was happy.

It came to the final wheel and Kate suggested lifting a leg. Usually my response is “No chance!” However, I tried. My right foot made off the floor. I brought it down. My left foot made it a tiny bit of the floor. Kate praised my attempt. I realised that the poses that are difficult are the ones that teach us the most about ourselves. Do we give up or keep trying? I looked up to the door in the studio where all the ‘angels’ that people had created were. I observed one I had written for my grandad, one for my niece who was a stillborn and one for my gran. My gran was my rock. A tear came to my eye and I thought “I will finish my PhD for you, gran” I felt an overwhelming gratitude, that despite no longer having my gran to turn to, I have yoga and the Yogabomb community. I have wonderful women in my life who continue to support me, care for me and make me smile.

I smiled and left Yogabomb feeling lighter.

Tracy Donachie

MSc, BSc

YOGI OF THE MONTH

AT YOGABOMB, WE BELIEVE THAT INSPIRING PEOPLE ARE WHAT MAKE A GREAT YOGA STUDIO. 

In November 2018, we introduced “Yogi of the Month”.  

You may count the months since then… November, December, and January..... and expect us to introduce you to about 3 yogis. Instead, thanks to Lou’s generosity (and an abundance of inspirational people attending Yogabomb making it difficult to choose), 20 people have received a month of free yoga, worth £90 each in the last 3 months.

Let’s meet them…

November 2017

Voted by the Yogabomb Yogis

Gabi Gorin

- How long have you been practicing yoga and how has yoga at Yogabomb improved your life?

 I’ve practiced yoga regularly since September 2016, when I joined Yogabomb.   The main reason I practice yoga is for emotional and mental wellbeing. But it also benefits me physically and I quit the gym shortly after joining Yogabomb as I realised this was the kind of movement that suited me best. It’s not just the practice that helps but also the teachers and the other yogis – it’s a very welcoming and supportive environment. It has helped me to cope with some challenging times and is a place of healing and positivity. I’ve gained confidence through challenging my body to move into different postures. At first it felt weird getting upside down but now it’s my favourite place to be! During the classes (and workshops) at Yogabomb I’m able to shift my focus from my health issues to appreciating more what my body can do and its potential for healing.

Tracy Donachie

- Fun fact about you:

I’ve lived in and played semi-professional football on three continents. 

- What’s your intention for your yoga practice? 

My personal intention for yoga practice is to help me physically, mentally and emotionally. I also strive to continually learn so I can best serve the people I teach.

- What’s your favourite yoga pose? 

Handstand (I think that might be quite obvious to anyone who follows me on Instagram/has ever been to yogabomb!)

 

December 2017

Voted by the Yogabomb Yogis and the public

Yogi of the Month was awarded to 17 people. Let’s meet four of them:  

Rebecca Grant

I’m relatively new to yoga, starting in September. My close friend Mike, a fellow yogi, dragged me along to a class, to help me deal with a few curve balls life had thrown me. I have to say the welcome and kindness from the community in Yogabomb along with the benefits of learning yoga and starting to form a practice have help me greatly and Im so grateful for finding my mat and meeting so many wonderful individuals - i m looking forward to this continued journey which I hope is for life. 

Carole Marshall

- When not on your mat, where can you be found?

I would like to say that when I'm not on my mat I could be found behind my camera taking amazing landscape photos but the truth is I'll be driving my taxi around York.

- How has yoga at Yogabomb improved your life? 

Coming to Yogabomb has been a lovely, relaxing experience.  I definitely work harder than I would have done at home or without the heat which although is hot is by no means unpleasant.  I have already, after 4 sessions, seen an improvement in my flexibility and balance and feel that yoga is right for my body now and in the future.

Alice Maynard

- What is/are your intention/intentions for yoga practice?

Openness and fun

- What song should be on every yoga playlist?

Sia- Breathe Me

- How has yoga at Yogabomb improved your life?

Yogabomb has helped me get to places other yoga classes haven’t reached!

Lucy Hudson

- Fun fact about you

I started a dinner party club for friends called The FEW Club, few standing for Fantastically Exotic Wines.

- What are your intentions for yoga practice?

To maintain a healthy mind and body, to practice patience and listening

- What is your favorite yoga pose?

The wheel, Chakrasana, because it's a pose I'm trying to master fully

January 2018

Voted by Marci

Mary Costello

Marci voted for Mary because: 

"Mary has been with me from the start of the studio. Once, at the very beginning, actually teaching only her as she was the only person in my class one night. She rarely misses a class, I like her dedication and I enjoyed seeing her yogi powers grow. She is an inspiration, humble and always making time for her Tuesday practice regardless of the weather. Makes me happy to see her every Tuesday in her regular sport! So I will "share her" with other others by giving her the opportunity to go to any class at Yogabomb in one month."

Keep your eyes peeled for

February 2018 Yogi of the Month

to be announced soon, Namaste y'all