Deana P. | Dragonfly Hot Yoga Madison WI

How did you get started at Dfly?
A friend encouraged me to join her for a yoga class at Dragonfly. I have always been interested in the practice, but didn’t know where to start. The intimidation factor of yoga was legit! I am thankful that Kati gave me the nudge I needed and for Suki helping to make me feel so welcome at that first class.

What was your yoga/barre experience before Dfly?
This question made me laugh. The only previous experience I had with yoga was doing an at home DVD. The best part of this experience was that the video was produced by MTV. I was so young and naïve to many things, but trying to learn the practice of yoga via MTV is just comical. I bet now you are laughing…

What do you enjoy most from attending Dfly classes? Have you experienced any changes in your total well-being since taking classes?
The variety of classes with top-notch instructors! Somehow, each instructor knows if you need an extra push, encouragement, or a little grace. It is magical. I have also met so many wonderful people at Dfly and some of them I now call friends. That is not something I ever thought I’d gain from yoga but it’s one of the things I enjoy most. I am stronger, both physically and mentally. I have learned so many tools from this practice on ways to face challenges both on and off the mat. I often find myself focusing on my breath in stressful situations; this has been life-changing.

How often do you attend classes? Favorite class?
I average about four to five classes per week, but would attend every day if my schedule permitted. To pick a favorite class is too hard; I enjoy them all. The satisfaction of killing a Yoga Up or Power Up, the sweet savory shakes of Barre, the uber relaxation from Aroma Yin…so darn good! I am someone who struggles with the cold, so right now I am really enjoying the fire classes. Brenda’s 75-minute Saturday class is blissful. Bring on the heat!

Please feel free to share any other thoughts you have about Dfly, hot yoga, or your life as we would love to know more about you.
I would describe my life outside of the studio as full, but for me, that comes with a lot of responsibility and stress. Being able to take an hour in the studio is a blessing and I am truly grateful to be a part of the Dragonfly community.

Instructor Brenda Autz: “Deana has a strong practice that includes a wide variety of classes and instructors. She balances her almost daily practice by alternating classes like Yoga Up/Power Up with Flows and Slow Flows. Deana is kind and cheerful. She takes the time to visit with clients and instructors before and after classes. Our Dragonfly community is fortunate to have Deana as a member.”