It’s hard to choose a favorite season of the year. Winter brings special holidays and time with loved ones, and the snow that is both a beauty and a chore. The renewal of spring feels like a reward after months of cold. With summer comes an array of outdoor activities that can only be enjoyed under the warmth of the sun. For a lot of people, autumn tops all of that. There’s nothing quite like watching leaves change colors, pulling out sweaters and blankets, or drinking hot apple cider after crisp walks outside.
Fall is a beautiful time for many things, and I think of it as an optimal time to try something new. In my first few months at Imagine, I’ve settled into a state I’ve never lived in before, a new apartment, a changing schedule. We all go through adjustments at times in life, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. I can honestly say that my new studio home has been one of the greatest blessings in a fall season of new things. I have a built-in way to be part of a fantastic community and make friends with shared interests. There is something to be said for seeing familiar faces multiple times per week, whether online or (safely) in person!
I’ve been encouraged to step out of my comfort zone and broaden my perspective as a fitness instructor and a lifelong student of movement. After a couple of years with little to no yoga, I am returning to a weekly practice that I find healing, challenging, and restorative, thanks to experts like Marty and Sam. Sara’s Pilates flow reinforces to me that we can find such strength and core power in the Pilates method. Caren and her students have a marvelous energy that makes me want to move with purpose and rise to the challenge. John and Jackie, who are gifted, sensitive, and creative teachers, have intentionally crafted this close-knit community to be welcoming and encouraging. These are times in which we all need that more than ever.
As I dive into a fresh barre class here, I’m finding more and more that students and instructors have so much in common. We learn from one another, build each other up, and help each other improve all the time. I love going into someone else’s class and being their student. I highly recommend taking any class with an open mind and a willingness to try new things. You might just find something that you love, that you look forward to each week.
Let’s connect and keep the conversation going—before or after class, or even just a quick email sometime! I’d love to hear how you’re doing and talk about your favorite classes, your book/TV/movie recommendations, or cool Michigan things that I should know about. 🙂
See you around!
Allison Merrill
allison@imaginefitnessandyoga.com
