Self-Care, A Milestone, A Community, and A New Chapter

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This morning my daughter drove us 🫣 in to a very special class - one where I reached a milestone that holds deep meaning for me: 1,500 classes at Barre3.

I wrote a reflection when I hit 1,000 classes (see below), and now, 500 classes later, my heart still feels the same. This practice, this space, and this community have remained a constant source of strength, growth, and connection. Even the fact that just 8 weeks ago I broke my foot walking out of Barre class and stepping into a pothole (UGH) - my process of a fast recovery is absolutely due to the strength Barre3 provides our bodies.  

But today, something new begins.

Starting next week, I begin training to become a Barre3 instructor at the place that has become so much more than a fitness studio—Barre3 Issaquah. I’m filled with excitement and pride to step into this next chapter, moving from student to guide, ready to support and uplift others the way I’ve been supported here.

To Jamie, Barre3 Issaquah studio owner, Trina my mentor and trainer, to every instructor—past and present—to the front desk team and each person I’ve had the privilege to move beside: thank you. You’ve created something truly special. Even through changes in ownership (shout out to Heather Kass the OG) and shifts in team (miss you Elizabeth, Hilary, Angela, Jamie, Heather + others) each and every one of you has left a lasting imprint on me, and ultimately inspired this next step.

Barre3 Issaquah, you’ve shaped me in more ways than I can count. And now, I get to give back to the space that has given me so much.

Here’s to new beginnings.

    

—Here is what I wrote after my 1000 class milestone….

1000 classes! Wow, this can make a girl feel some real pride! I would love to share my Barre3 journey and my “why” for Barre3.

Not long after graduating college, when I was 23 years old, I suffered a stroke. At the time, I had already started my career in elementary education – but now I was facing a very scary health setback.  The stroke left me with extreme weakness along the left side of my face, all the way through my body down to my toes.  I endured endless appointments, including, physical therapy, blood tests, heart tests, and much more. Not only was my body suffering, so was my mental health. With much perseverance and hard work, I was able to regain some of my strength - physically and mentally. I knew that I needed to continue to work hard, not only on my outer strength and balance, but my inner strength and balance as well.  

It took me some time to find the “right” thing for me, but once I finally found Barre3, I immediately knew it was the “right” place for me. As a lifelong dancer, Barre3 instantly gave me great joy and memories of my first love of dancing!  I found a community that gave me comfort in being vulnerable. My balance was off and my left side was still quite weak. When the instructors would tell the class to balance and close our eyes, I would feel a vulnerability that was difficult for me (I would often cheat and peek👀). Over time, this became something that I repeatedly worked hard at and even shared with one of my most favorite instructors. During classes, she lets me know that she’s rooting for me as she calls out an eyes closed balance challenge - it touches my heart each and every time🥰. 

Barre3 Issaquah has given me back balance and strength, in my mind and body. I am forever grateful for the kindness, compassion, and inclusivity the Barre3 Issaquah community shares with all of us who walk in their doors. I have gained so much strength, balance and peace – along with a beautiful community of people.