Something that I noticed immediately when I started attending classes at The Pharm is the immense feeling of community that is present here. When you walk into the studio, one of the first things you see is a sign with a Helen Keller quote: “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” You feel these words in action at The Pharm.
I think one of the things that we are all needing so much right now is community. There are so many heartbreaking things taking place around the world, in addition to the pandemic continuing to cause anxiety and fear all around us. It is so important to have a community of people to turn to and lift us up during these times. It is something that is felt in the inclusiveness of The Pharm, the wide range of events, workshops and classes offered, and the encouraging energy of the teachers and students. A perfect example is when I’m struggling in barre class during a particularly tough sequence and need to take a break; multiple people will check on me to see if I need anything or if I am okay (and we have all been there during barre class!). To feel seen and cared for in such a small moment means so much. It is such a nurturing atmosphere that I don’t take for granted.
This is also seen in the encouragement of students to get involved in The Pharm in bigger ways. Whether that is something like my involvement in this blog, or students like Carrie Sablan and Alicia Payan getting certified to become barre instructors. It is truly an atmosphere of support and encouragement and love. What a gift to be surrounded and supported by this beautiful community! Now, we are challenged to spread this love and community spirit to the people we encounter when we leave the studio and head out into our daily lives. This is why we do yoga, and how we embody and live out the eight limbs of yoga. I encourage you to be a light to those you encounter every day, whether it is someone you are close to or a stranger. Right now, we can all use encouragement and love and the sense of community that we are lucky enough to experience as part of this Phamily.