My main motivator for beginning yoga with Bettina in January 2013 was to gently exercise & rehabilitate my stomach muscles and core after recent surgery.  Also, at the time my children were 18 months, 4 & 5 years old, so the prospect of some “me time” was appealing.  It was the first time I allowed myself the luxury of such quality time since becoming a parent.
Yoga has allowed me to slowly begin to strengthen my core & provide a general allround approach to my well-being.  I am fitter, more flexible, more determined and more connected to my surroundings.  I’m beginning to have more respect for myself, as I now realize I am capable of doing “difficult” things.  I am “good” at something.  I do deserve to experience the joy of yoga class even though I’m a busy mum with lots of other responsibilities that I’d previously considered to be more important.

Physically, I notice the difference when I don’t practice yoga.  Emotionally, I enjoy the feeling of connecting with other “like-minded people”.  I love learning techniques to calm my busy mind, or diffuse any negative emotions.  I love the challenge of learning new poses & the sense of accomplishment & confidence that comes with it.

Bettina is so attentive, supportive & encouraging.  She provides the most lovely environment for classes.  The studio atmosphere is instantly calming.  The other students are always so welcoming too.

I believe yoga “found me” at the right time.  Three young children, a growing business, always in a rush – I was in such danger of letting my children grow up in a busy blur with a distracted & grumpy mum.  I try every day to be present, to slow down, to be more mindful of how we interact.  I will not get this time again with my children, and so will be eternally grateful to you, Bettina for reminding me of these most basic, yet often neglected essential things.

Bec Elliot, Botanic Ridge – December 2014