july 07

I've been wanting to try yoga for a long time, and Loving Yoga has been the perfect way to get started (and keep going!) The small class size is wonderful--but, more than that, the atmosphere and teaching style (thank you, Shelley!) is infused with such a welcoming, accepting air. Loving Yoga is exactly what I've been looking for.

linda simms, champaign il

....one year later... july 08

The class is a great work-out. Challenging, but never intimidating. And I love that it's combined with a meditative component as well. I also really appreciate the atmosphere--Shelley is accepting of all levels, as are my fellow classmates. I never feel like I need to be more like so-and-so. It's a very personal experience within a truly supportive group. I love that.

linda simms, champaign il (7/08)

I can't decide if I really love yoga or Shelley, the yoga teacher!  Shelley has made me feel so comfortable learning the stretches and poses.  I have learned so much in the few weeks I have attended these classes.  I find myself lowering my shoulders, thinking about the temperature of my breath, relaxing my throat, etc. when I am at the grocery store, eating dinner, or reading.  I look forward to class days - and I am truly disappointed if I must be gone.  This has been such a wonderful addition to my exercise program.  I really really really love it!

sandy volk, urbana il

I am so glad that I decided to take up Yoga again. It had been about 2 years since my last session. I didn't realize how much I missed it and how beneficial it is to my well being. Shelley is a gentle, caring Yogi with an amazing ability to read the tone of the class and adjust her approach accordingly. No matter what state of mind I'm in when I arrive, I always leave feeling refreshed and at peace with myself and the world around me. Thank you, Sandra and Shelley, for providing this opportunity for the community. 

Karrie Doebel, champaign il

... I am wrapping my mind around the thought that I could be a "yoga person" – even though I am obese, a bit over middle age, not flexible and not particularly physical on any level.  Being willing to go outside my comfort zone is very scary and will require a great deal of effort for me, but the experience of going outside of myself has been rewarding enough for me to want to continue.  I have no skill at any type of commitment, especially for any form of exercise, but I think I want to be a yoga person and it has been a very long time since I have wanted to be anything at all.

I really appreciate the teaching style of Shelley, especially how she encourages the students to adjust the poses to people's own abilities and to their own bodies.

cynthia mc donnell, urbana il

[Loving Yoga] is one of the important things in my life, I really feel better, invigorated, and more healthy when I do yoga. I don't practice much, or for very long when I do, but I apply movements and stretches every day in my daily activity: driving, stooping, reaching high shelves, etc. I especially like the guided yoga that Shelley does, and the ongoing reminders about form. I have trouble doing these things on my own. I also love the people in my classes, all different, and all easy to be with.

dorothy martirano

I love having Shelley as a teacher. She has introduced yoga to me with a loving and nurturing that is unbelievable and beautiful. I find it relaxing and restorative. Shelley has been very aware of each persons special needs and is gifted in finding alternative moves and positions for our needs. I would suggest everyone give yoga a try. My blood pressure has returned to normal. Thanks

sherry banner

Shelly is a fantastic teacher!

kathryn fitzgerald

I have been studying with Shelley for more than a year. She has been gentle, compassionate and forgiving of any body size that walks into the room. No matter what, she works with you personally so that you can achieve your highest good in a yoga pose. In her willingness to show adaptabilty and acceptance, she has taught me to be more accepting and compassionate with myself. Some poses were emotionally difficult to do, due to past trauma and I have learned to " breathe " during difficult times. blessings of Gratitude for all she has taught me!

debra joy hart