The Yoga Loft Storybook: Dennis Esposito
Why/When/Where did you start practicing yoga?
My late wife, Susan Cohen, was a yoga practitioner for many years and was one of the original clients of the Yoga Loft when Randy and Laurel opened and she religiously practiced at the Loft 3-4 days a week since. For many years I was a martial arts, Tai Chi, and Qi Quong practitioner and instructor, never the twain shall meet! About ten years ago, while on vacation in Zihuatenjio MX. after a night of way too much tequila and empanadas, Susan dragged me to a class at the resort and I have been practicing ever since. It was and is an excellent way to compliment and soften my other Eastern Practices.
How has yoga changed/influenced your life?
Yoga has turned out to be the biggest life force I have. I was always on the periphery of my practice with Susan taking the lead until two years ago when she was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Needless to say, that life changer focused our entire family on her care. I found the occasions I could surround my self with my yoga practice and all the teachers at the Yoga Loft gave me some needed solace, comfort and understanding without placing any demands upon me at that difficult period. Since Susan passed in December of last year, I found a new second family by having been“ adopted” by the Yoga loft and it's teachers and practitioners So much such so, that my three day a week practices have morphed into to the 200 hour Teacher Training Program which I am currently engaged. So far that intensive Training Program has been one of the best decisions I could have made to prepare me for my next part of life's journey. To be able to dedicate my efforts and practice in this Teacher Training Program at the Loft as a tribute to Susan is an indescribable and welcomed transformative challenge.
What has been your experience practicing at The Yoga Loft?
Love and respect sprinkled with wonderful caring professionals at the Loft give true meaning to what yoga is. In over 20 years of practices and teaching in the Eastern Arts, I never experienced anything like it.
Anything else you wish to share about your yoga journey?
Sharing the intense 200 hour Teacher Training 9 month journey with my co Teacher Trainees is a wonderful and bonding experience.