04/11/2026
Today, was a day that I remember very clearly, 35 years ago, at the Childrenβs Hospital in Ottawa, Ontario, on 3 November, 1991. I had a major spinal surgery (my second but this one was the most extensive) where the 88Β° curvature of my spine was corrected to about 44Β°. Who knows where itβs at today, but that is not the point.
Itβs a mixed bag of feelings, as I sometimes wish I could go back in time and delay the operation. Get into Yoga back then to strengthen myself, but ultimately everything that happened to me was meant to happen for me. So many life lessons. Resilience opportunities.
Do not get me wrong. I was surrounded by so much love. My mother was my biggest fan and she showered me with lots of support, care and love. The problem was really with my own self talk. I didnβt always talk very kindly to myself. I told myself a story that I wasnβt strong, that I was weak, fragile, that I was different, that nobody would want to date me one day.
At 12 years old, hadnβt even hit puberty yet I was definitely hit with a huge slap in the face, but later, as I grew more self-acceptance, with the right mindset and the right people around me, I did find my tribe. I met my husband in NZ. I have an awesome son. I am surrounded by loving people that accept me as I am.
Iβm gonna take a moment right now to thank The Loft Yoga Lounge community, for supporting me in hosting years of teaching yoga on a Wednesday, with my unique sense of humour and spontaneous one-liners.
I also want to thank my mentors with the Hip Group. You guys are amazing and have sewn so much belief in me. , Justine-lee Lloyd , and many others. The Hip Group
Thanks to all my thousands of yogiβs that Iβve served over the last 16 years. Iβm not ready to retire just yet so keep coming and showing up for yourselves! I love you lots.
CHEO
Yoga, Meditation, Vegan eats - Auckland
grateful
