Welcome to My Blog: A Journey of Reflection and Growth
- ajsyogawellness
- Jan 2
- 2 min read

As we step into a new year, I’m embracing something new—a monthly blog. Writing in this way is a little outside my comfort zone, but I’m excited to share reflections, insights, and experiences on the things I hold dear: yoga, learning, community, and the messy beauty of life’s challenges.
I’ve never been one for resolutions or trying to change who I am. Why would I? I’m a unique and divine soul, just as you are. My focus in a new year isn’t on reinvention but on growth, connection, and nurturing my spirit in meaningful ways.
2024 was a challenging year for me. As I was finding my stride in growing my yoga studio, life threw a curveball. My mom fell and broke her leg, and caregiving became a central part of my life. Thankfully, my siblings and I had prepared for emergencies, and everything worked as planned. I’m profoundly grateful for my sister and brother. We all stepped in to help, and knowing we’re in this together is a blessing I don't take for granted.
Even with the three of us splitting time with my mom, the balance has been hard. Caring for my mom while trying to be a good mom to my kids, a good wife, and a good granny is one of the hardest things I’ve ever navigated. Some days I feel stretched too thin; other days, I feel guilty that I’m not doing enough. It’s exhausting, overwhelming, and sometimes frustrating. But then there are moments—like laughing so hard with my mom that neither of us can speak, holidays with my kids, siblings, nieces and nephews, and quiet moments with my husband - glimmer moments.
Through it all, I’ve found grounding and relief in our A.J.S. community. Many of you are currently or have been caretakers. Your support and grace have been just what I needed, even when I didn’t realize I needed it. Teaching and connecting with all of you fills my soul and reminds me that I’m not alone. It’s a testament to the power of community, and it’s something I treasure deeply.
As I look to 2025, I’m guided by two words: glimmer and contentment. Each day brings its own challenges and gifts. On the good days, I’ll focus on the sparkle—the glimmer—of joy and beauty in the moment. On the harder days, I’ll strive for contentment, finding peace in what is and letting go of what isn’t.
Some days I’ll do this better than others, and that’s okay. Growth isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up. Thank you for walking this journey with me. Here’s to a year filled with glimmers of light, moments of contentment, and the power of connection for us all.
Thank you for your wise and kind words, Mandy 💓 You'll make it back when you can, and I'll be there when you do 😉
This is the season for many of us experiencing the struggle to balance caretaking our parents, our children, our marriages and our own self.
I am so grateful for the AJS community. I have found myself there the way I want to but the practice I have learned there stays with me even when I’m not there.
I hope to find my way back into practicing with you this New Year. May your glimmer and contentment journey help you find balance.