Dear Beloved Yoga Community,

I hope this message finds you in good health and spirits. Today, I am reaching out to you with an open heart, seeking your support and collaboration as I navigate a particularly challenging chapter in my life.

As many of you know, I am a single mother, and like countless others, the pandemic has brought about unprecedented difficulties. Balancing motherhood, teaching, and maintaining my own well-being has been an arduous journey. Lately, I have found myself in what many spiritual traditions refer to as a “dark night of the soul.” This experience, though deeply transformative, has also been profoundly challenging.

Throughout these trials, the practice of yoga has been my anchor. Your presence in my classes, both in-person and virtual, in the studio and outside, has been a source of immense strength and comfort. Our shared moments of breath, movement, and stillness have reminded me of the power of community and the deep connections we have cultivated.

In light these experiences, I am inspired to create a new, sustainable, and regenerative business model that not only supports my family but also enriches our yoga community. However, I cannot do this alone—I need your help.

How You Can Support and Collaborate

1. Share Your Ideas and Feedback

I am eager to hear your thoughts on how we can make this vision a reality. Do you have ideas for classes, workshops, or community events that would resonate with you? Are there specific needs or interests within our community that we can address together? Your input is invaluable.

2. Participate in Our Offerings

Your continued participation in yoga classes, workshops, and retreats is the lifeblood of my work. Whether you join me online or in-person, your presence and energy contribute to the collective healing and growth of our group.

3. Spread the Word

Help me reach a broader audience by sharing our offerings with friends, family, and on social media. Word-of-mouth and personal recommendations are powerful ways to expand our community and bring more like-minded individuals into our circle.

4. Financial Support

If you are in a position to do so, consider making a contribution to support this transition to a new model. Every bit helps, and your generosity will directly impact the sustainability of our offerings and the well-being of our community.

5. Join Membership Platform When It Launches

I am in the process of designing a membership platform that will offer valuable content, live sessions, and a library of past classes and workshops. Your subscription will provide steady support and access to a wealth of resources designed to deepen your practice. Please stay tuned!

Building a Regenerative Future Together

This journey is not just about surviving; it is about thriving together. A more sustainable and regenerative business model will help me foster a community where generosity, compassion, and mutual support are at the forefront. And I plan on inviting my colleagues into this model as it becomes more streamlined, because I want all of us to grow and thrive and expand the gifts of yoga into the world that needs it more than ever.

This model will allow us to:

  • Offer Accessible Yoga: Provide sliding-scale and donation-based classes to ensure everyone can benefit from the healing power of yoga.
  • Support Your Teachers: Ensure fair compensation for teachers, allowing them to continue their important work without financial strain.
  • Engage in Community Projects: Give back to the community through yoga programs for underserved populations and environmental initiatives.

In this moment of vulnerability, I am reminded of the strength and resilience that comes from community. Your support means the world to me, and together, I believe we can create something truly beautiful and enduring.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your presence, ideas, and generosity are deeply appreciated. Let us move forward with hope, compassion, and the shared vision of a brighter future.

With all my love and gratitude,

Lorien Nemec, EYT 500

Photo Credit: Colleen Broersma