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Leaving the nest to build a nest

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As I prepare to step away from Hemma for maternity leave, I realize it’s been nine and a half years since I wandered through Hemma’s front door to check out a class. Little did I know that these orange and yellow walls would become my second home for nearly a decade! Sure I was looking for a nice Yoga class, but I was also quietly seeking a welcoming community where I could practice Karma Yoga (the Yoga of Action). I immediately knew I had found a home and started volunteering at Hemma shortly after. Over the years, as a student, teacher, patient, and manager I’ve had the privilege of experiencing the depth of this community from many different angles. I’ve been inspired by your stories, humbled by your practice, and honoured to have witnessed so much kindness amoung strangers. The consistent thread I’ve seen weaved through many of these interactions is a sense of openness and belonging. It’s an invisible yet palpable feeling that everyone who walks through the front door here can find a sense of home — regardless of your beliefs, your style, your budget, or what kind of day you’re having. My gratitude runs deep to have experienced this in this lifetime and in such a rich way.

Now I’m leaving the Hemma nest to embark on a whole new quest: Motherhood. After nine and a half months, my partner and I will be expecting our first baby this March. Our nesting instincts have begun – shifting furniture, making space, organizing every corner. Aligning all of our material possessions feels an important step to prepare for our growing family, but I know that it’s not the most important part. We are new parents, certainly not experts, but my instincts tell me that offering this little being love and a sense of safety and belonging in our home is what matters most. My positive experiences from Hemma will surely shape our nest as our family grows.

While I am away for a year, I am delighted to pass the captain’s hat over to Alison Heard. As the new Studio Manager, she will continue to sail the Hemma ship smoothly and with grace!

Thank you, oh vibrant community, for the opportunity to serve. It has truly been an honour.

Much love,
Kelly