How did you get started at Dragonfly?
Around December 2021 I had just finished my first semester of grad school and was dealing with my first Wisconsin winter. A classmate recommended Dragonfly, so I signed up for a session. I remember the warmth hitting my face when I walked in, which was a nice contrast to the icy deathtrap outside. The fragrant towels at the end sealed the deal for me.
What was your yoga or barre experience before joining us?
Scattered, mostly. I took some yoga classes at my undergrad rec center, but it was never a proper habit. Dragonfly was my first hot yoga experience, which quickly turned into a full-blown addiction.
What do you enjoy most about attending Dragonfly classes?
My field of study is heavily male-dominated and competitive. Dragonfly is one of the few spaces where I feel surrounded by an inclusive community free of judgement. I never feel like I have to question whether I’m doing something right if it feels right.
Have you experienced any changes in your total well-being since you started taking classes?
I’m finishing my PhD in Biophysics at UW–Madison this year, and it’s hard to imagine getting through the stress without Dragonfly. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression my whole life, which hasn’t disappeared, but attending classes has helped me maintain balance over the past four years. Outside the studio, I’ve also seen a huge physical impact. I started rock climbing in early 2023, and my progress since then has been incredible, which I genuinely credit to regularly practicing yoga.
How often do you attend, and do you have a favorite class?
It ebbs and flows, but I try to attend 2-4 times per week. Marc’s fire slow flow class is a recent favorite of mine. Their approach to yoga is very grounded, and their classes feel less about going through the motions and more about mentally engaging with oneself through every movement and breath.
Please feel free to share any other thoughts about Dragonfly, hot yoga, or yourself — we would love to know more about you!
I love that hot yoga asks for your full attention, and that everyone’s style can be an expression of themselves. I spend most of the week overthinking, so it’s a relief to have somewhere that brings me into a literal flow state, both mentally and physically.
