I initially got started at Dragonfly because I was searching the city of Madison for a Barre class. Dragonfly entered the Barre market in Madison and I immediately signed up for a class. I was so excited there was finally a studio in town that offered it – I moved back to Madison from Chicago a few years ago, and many of my girlfriends had been talking about these new Barre classes there. I was very excited Madison finally got Barre. I had also just had my second son, Charlie, 5 weeks earlier. Charlie and I went to Dragonfly together for my first class and he did the childcare. I thought that was so cool the studio had childcare. He doesn't come with me anymore because I went back to work, but it certainly was nice to have at the time. If we ever have baby #3, I know I'll have a great place to come during maternity leave. Slowly I started trying different classes and finally became a member because I wanted to try everything! It was an excellent move that I'll never regret.
Before Dragonfly, I had never done yoga before. I would run a lot and do cardio classes. Yoga and the various other classes offered at Dragonfly have been amazing and transforming. I ran the Napa to Sonoma half marathon last month, and it was my strongest race ever. The best part is that during my marathon training, I only ran once per week! My yoga, power, and Barre classes put me in the best shape of my life, and made an incredible difference in my running.
I felt strong and balanced the entire race, and actually enjoyed the scenery and the people. I look forward to all my classes at Dragonfly. It's never a chore to go there and I never feel like I'm just checking my workout off my daily list of obligations. I feel like I've made a whole group of new friends -from the staff to the women I've met in my classes. I recently did Carrie's Sundara retreat and met some incredible women there, too. I enjoy the feelings of strength, gratitude, and rejuvenation I get from the classes while at the same time feeling like I'm at home and comfortable.
I have experienced amazing changes since dedicating myself to yoga and various classes at Dragonfly. When I am stressed out at work, I know my class at Dragonfly will bring me peace. It's the best therapy I could ever ask for. I am stronger, more confident, and I believe I am happier since I started going to Dragonfly. I don't like to take life too seriously, and going to yoga reminds me to slow down and enjoy life, because I only have one shot at this!
I probably go to classes 4 times a week. I love Core Flow, Barre, and Power. I also have done a few of the workshops, and Katie Hill's Whole30 eating program changed my entire family's lives and improved our health immensely. And I love any class or program with Carrie – her energy and enthusiasm is so contagious and makes me so happy!
At the beginning of 2013, I dedicated my year to “improving.” I keep a pinterest board and blog that tracks how I can improve myself and consequently my relationships, my work product, my family, my marriage, everything. I took on a “do everything” motto and am trying to stick to it. I think my classes at Dragonfly have played a huge role in helping me keep on track working towards that goal. In December, I'll celebrate my 5 year “anniversary” from my stage 2b melanoma diagnosis, and I know I'll move forward from that date in the best mental and physical health of my life. My sister passed away several years ago, and I think yoga has truly helped me find a lot more peace and acceptance in my life. I always strive to do things in my life that would make her proud of me, and I know my dedication to yoga and taking care of myself is making her proud. Thank you, thank you, thank you for coming into my life, Dragonfly!
“I am constantly impressed and inspired by Gretchen’s dedication and transformation. She has a constant smile on her face and an aura of peace and gratitude. She is a hardworking Mom and Yogini. I suggest rolling your mat out next to her and feel the positive flow she holds.” – Instructor Carrie Johnson
