Future of The Yoga Tree

As the owner of The Yoga Tree, I want to apologize for my absence over the past couple months as we continue to go through this unprecedented time.  Like many of you, I too am personally struggling with all that has changed and where to go from here.  Despite the challenges, you have not been absent from my heart. I think of you each and every day, holding space for you to overcome obstacles that you may be facing with this pandemic.  Life sure has changed for all of us. 

I long awaited the reopening of our state to learn that The Yoga Tree would be in Phase 3 with strict guidelines. Such as, deep sanitizing between every class, wearing masks during class for both teacher and student and abiding by social distancing rules.  Maximum capacity in the studio would likely be limited to 4 people including your teacher.   

I’ve been mulling over the issue how we enter the studio.  The building houses a number of vulnerable people, like Norman (who sits in the lobby), who are more susceptible to death if the virus is contracted. 

Soon after closing I spent a lot of time applying for numerous grants but have received no assistance.  Bills continue to pile up and I can no longer afford to financially support the studio.  I’ve exhausted all my resources.

The mission of The Yoga Tree is “To provide a beautiful, calming and safe atmosphere…”  I don’t see it possible to provide a safe atmosphere for a long time to come.  We are in the business of breathing, which, as you know, is largely how the virus spreads.  The pandemic has drastically changed the yoga industry.  Until a vaccine is developed, I don’t believe that it will be safe to do yoga in a small space breathing heavily together.  In my eyes, opening back up before a vaccine would be violating many of the Yamas, the ethical practices of yoga.  Yet another part of the mission, “At The Yoga Tree, we demonstrate the principles of the eight limbs of yoga…” 

It is with great sadness to announce that I am permanently closing the brick and mortar of The Yoga Tree.  I’ve been weighing this decision for quite some time and it didn’t come easy.  I just don’t see a sustainable way to reopen.

It is important to know that regardless of our physical doors closing, we are still here for you!  When one door closes, another one opens, if we allow.  This is our opportunity to spread our roots and branch out. 

This summer and fall we hope to offer classes in outdoor spaces so we may practice safely.  Many of your teachers will continue to teach at their capacity.  I will share this information with you here so that you are able to continue to connect and practice with your teacher(s).   

I imagine for some of you the decision to close may come as no surprise but others it might be shocking.  I understand anything and everything that you may be feeling right now, I’ve been living it for weeks/months.   Please know that I am holding space for you to mourn and grieve in a way that is safe and appropriate for you.

Whether you have been a part of the Tree since inception or new to the studio, on behalf of all the teachers and from the bottom of my heart, we thank you for your dedication to the studio, your support and understanding. 

This is a bittersweet moment in time.  The Yoga Tree always felt like home for me.  It is where I learned how to teach, where I built a strong community and served so many.  The hardest part for me is missing you and the amazing community that developed.  I often think back to my Wednesday night class where people showed up 20-30 minutes early just to catch up with others.  I watched a lot of amazing friendships develop as well as people reconnecting with friends from the past.  We had many laughs and shed some tears throughout the years.  The true reward for me, is to see your transformation through your practice, which is different and beautiful for everyone.    These are beautiful memories and I will carry them with me forever as I hope you do too. 

I will continue to teach and have some exciting things to offer you, which I will be sharing with you very soon. Until we meet again…

Always know, that the light in me, honors and shines on the light in you.   I wish you love, light and happiness.

Namaste,
Jennifer