June 2008: What People Are Saying About Darlene's Classes
Darlene, you are one of the best yoga instructors I’ve experienced throughout the country (even as far as CA). Your unique teaching style makes a 90min class go by without thinking. You guide your class through the proper breathing, perfecting our form, while learning new techniques. You provide over and beyond services with your personal assistance during and after class, maximizing our yoga experience. Thanks so much for your great spirit. Namaste!
- Cathy Faucher, Nashua, NH
You have made a difference in my yoga practice. Your energy is class is like nothing else and has helped me to become the yogi I am today. I have came to enough of your classes that I hear your voice even though someone else is giving the instructions.
- Karen Wilson, Merrimack, NH
I took your class last night for the first time at WOW in Nashua. I just wanted to let you know it was a great class and I thought you were an incredible instructor. I was really nervous because I had never taken a Yoga class before and really had no idea what to expect. You made me feel very comfortable and I thank you for all the tips and time you gave me to get through the class. A lot of times when you take a class for the 1st time you don't really get any individual attention because there is a time limit, etc... I will definitely take your class again - even though I am sore today :) I guess that means I really had a workout. I never thought I would sweat and work so hard taking Yoga. Long story short _ I loved the class and you really made my introduction to Yoga a pleasant one. There were actually moments of relaxation even though I was working hard. Thank you. Keep up the good work.
- Rochelle, Nashua, NH
Thank you Darlene. I have progressed in my practice and I owe a lot of it to you! I know you always say something to the effect of, "it's not about me, it's about you..." in class, but that's not entirely true. I don't know how dedicated I would have been (initially) if you didn't set a spark in me. In class I feel your passion and "truth", you know, like Darlene in the raw. LOL... I am sure everyone else does, too -NOW THAT IS INSPIRATION!
Anyway, now I'm hooked and enjoying where the journey takes me.
- Julie Gatheral, Nashua, NH
I met Darlene when I was about 24 years of age (I'm now 39)..... Wow!!! We both worked on the trading floor at Fidelity Investments, and one day we got into a deep discussion about our spiritual beliefs. Well little did I know that in that moment, I would discover something that would change my life completely. Needless to say, at that time, I was quit taken back at what you said; however, it did cause me to start researching my own beliefs and to start to dive deeper into my own personal relationship with God. I started to hear and feel God directly (not through what & how others were dictating my relationship should be). That moment truly changed my life and helped give me the strength to move in a different direction spiritually. For that I will always be thankful.
- Monique Howard, Atlanta, GA
I have taken yoga with other instructors and with the exception of one other instructor (Brian) I have never been able to fully reach the meditative state I have in this class. I have become a stronger person both physically and mentally due to the high level of instruction I have received from attending Darlene's class. She works very hard to create an atmosphere that fosters positive well-being, affirmation, self-acceptance, & self-reflection. Darlene is an advanced practitioner whose experience has helped me reflect on my practice and well as how I approach obstacles within and outside of the gym. I also enjoy being part of a class where most of my peers have been practicing for years. I benefit from their expertise and the non-competitive atmosphere they create. These students range from no experience to several years of experience. Darlene makes everyone feel welcomed. She has a unique style which encourages her students to be proud of their current level of practice, while encouraging students to always work towards becoming better. A cardio class or weight training just cannot offer the same effect no matter how long you engage yourself in it. This is a unique experience that can only be obtained through the total mind body experience.
- Jessica Spinazola, Tewksbury, MA
I might be your eldest student of 69 years old. My body has many tied up knots - from child & sexual abuse, accidents, broken bones & etc. Every time I go to a new level of releasing knots, tension & muscles I know exactly when I stored it in my body. Little by little I am experiencing so much release that my life works around my Yoga Classes. I feel so much release that I'm looking forward to the next class I attend. Thank you for all your encouragement & for being in my life because my life is better with yoga.
Namaste,
- Pat Wymore, Lowell, MA
I practice yoga to forget the world around me and focus on being present. Every practice with Darlene is a journey to that point of presence (however brief for me!) and inner peace and power. Darlene understands the importance and necessity of being present and offers a supportive, nurturing yet challenging environment to get me there. During the practice, Darlene's words are directed to me and resonate with me, whether she knows it or not. She understands me and guides me. Darlene is a powerful yet gentle teacher who should not be missed. Thank you Darlene! I appreciate what you have done for me and look forward to growing more with you.
- Renee Nichols, Nashua, NH
My experience in Darlene's class was invigorating and well instructed. I recommend Darlene's yoga class for beginners and advanced yoga enthusiastic.
- Sharron Rowlett, Nashua, NH
For me, yoga is more than a great physical workout, that tones and strengthens my body - it is a mental one as well. Each and every time I step on the mat I face my toughest competition, my greatest tormentor and biggest critic. I face myself. My greatest challenge in class is blocking out the competitor, tormentor and critic. I, like many, have a hard time accepting who I am. When I am focused on my breathing I can block out the negative thoughts I may have about myself or the memories of a tough day. Taking Darlene's class pushes me to try things that, in the past, I would have balked at. A tripod? A headstand? The pre-yoga me would never have thought about trying those. Now I feel like I can try things - and it does not matter if I succeed or fail. It isn't going to haunt me for the rest of my life if I fall out of a pose. When you are on the mat, it is only you, the poses and the breathing. To excel in yoga you need not be the strongest or most flexible, you need only to breath and be true to yourself. Do what works for your body, for that day, and focus on yourself - not what someone else in class can or can not do. There are days I struggle through class and days I float - but either way I walk away feeling lighter in spirit.
- Melissa Donahue, Chelmsford, MA
If you’re into spin, kickboxing and any other aerobic class and are looking for a HIGH-energy workout with non-stop emphasis on strength and personal growth for body, mind and soul then try one of Darlene’s yoga classes. I’m grateful for the tools and encouragement provided to us. Besides the great workout you may gain a renewed self-image and find a sense of community and develop some long-lasting friendships! Namaste.
- Jim Burke, Chelmsford, MA
You have changed my life. That does not begin to express my gratitude.
- Paulie Miller, Nashua, NH
Darlene is one of the finest yoga instructors that I’ve had the pleasure of working with. She has a unique and special ability to combine all aspects of yoga – the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual together – achieving what yoga is meant to do – bringing Union (yoga – to yoke together), balance, beauty and joy into the practice of life both on and off the mat. Her joy, spontaneity and genuine passion for her teaching and for yoga make taking a class with Darlene an energizing and illuminating experience. When you leave her classroom you will truly glow inside and out! Thanks for being an integral part of my own journey to Union. In gratitude
- Amethyst Wyldfyre, Nashua, NH
Every time I leave Darlene's class, I feel a sense of calmness - like a weight has been lifted off of me. She pushes the worries and fears of the day out of my head.
- Sarah Brown, Chelmsford, MA
You push me to find my edge - Thanks!
- Emily Strong, Nashua, NH
You the woman who bares her soul to reveal her amazing energy...
The woman who trustingly raises her arms towards the heavens and with unwavering faith brings them back to her heart in prayer...
The woman who cares enough to touch, to help, to support, to feed the need...
The woman who seeks up and compassionately sends out acceptance, without judgment...
The woman whose soul shines in her face.
Gratefully acknowledge the gift that you are.
- Cindy Maloof, Nashua, NH
Playing baseball as a 40-something requires the same skills as playing as a youth. However, reaching the physical condition to have those skills is something new. Working mostly at a desk all week means limited body movement. Playing baseball requires sudden quick body movements in sometimes unexpected directions. Tight muscles result in either inability to move as you are intended or a strained muscle. Yoga is a great cross training exercise to strengthen muscles unused for too many years and stretch muscles that will be tested during weekend competition. I have found specific benefit in the full body movement required in batting. Yoga feels as if it has loosened my lower back and leg muscles to allow the quick turning of my torso necessary when batting. In the 2007 season I batted .515- the second best batting average in New Hampshire’s 38plus men’s league
- Dennis Hogan, Nashua, NH
Darlene's classes are awesome.....simply awesome. There are no other words to describe her class.
- Patti Schippani, Merrimack, NH
In football, a hard hitting player is said to "bring it". In yoga, Darlene "brings it".
So if you are looking to get leveled, try her class. Your spirit will rise.
- Joaquin Otazo, Chelmsford MA
I recently have taken up yoga and have found the benefits to both mind and body are enormous. I had the pleasure of attending a class taught by Darlene and while I am definitely
a beginner, she put me completely at ease. Her help with learning various poses and stretches,
along with her words of encouragement and inspiration all throughout the class made it a totally wonderful experience. To say I left the class refreshed and rejuventated would be a huge understatement! Thanks Darlene!
- Jack Swan, Nashua, NH
WOW...What an experience Darlene's class is. I have been engaged in transformational work myself for many years but never transformation at the level of the body and listening to my body's communication and I want to thank you for leading me through it. I am hooked no doubt. I have done lots of cardio and weight training over the years, but taking my FIRST Yoga class ever with Darlene was a real breakthrough for me. Darlene's gentle - yet very intentional and clearly committed coaching - had me reaching for my best in no time. Sixty minutes with her and now I'm hooked on Yoga for life. Through Yoga, I have a path to completely transforming my relationship with my own body.
This is powerful stuff... and Darlene is a master motivator.
Thank you Darlene!!
- Chuck Smith, Chelmsford, MA
I attended your 90 minute class with my twin sister Susan Noel on Saturday afternoon. The experience was more than I expected. I went at my own pace, seeing I was a newbie and didn't know the poses, and never felt out of place. I kept hearing your voice saying "child pose is a powerful thing" so that's what I did never feeling embarrassed doing so and it is indeed a powerful relaxing pose. Having you there to make adjustments was reassuring. There
were many times when you put your hands on my back while in childs pose and I was so relaxed that I got a great chiropractic adjustment! I felt things let go. It was great. This was something I've never done before and I feel that the older I get I want to try new things and have powerful experiences. Life is too short not to do so. So, thank you so very much. I'm hoping that I will be able to attend your Tuesday and Thursday classes at Fitcorp with my sister during the summer.
- Sandy Beaulieu, Lowell, MA
Run, don’t walk to find miss Darlene, tell her I sent you,
she is located lots of places. Darlene is a force not to be reckoned with on and off your
mat.. Darlene is always looking to raise the bar in and out of a yoga
studio..and she will guide you to raise the bar. For yourself without
you even becoming aware.. In Darlene’s classes, one gets the feeling they
could be wiped out, but want to keep going because you don’t want to
miss the journey , and the places, this yoga sherpa will take you...
- Aimee DeRoehn, Yoga Teacher, Road Home Power Yoga Studio, Plymouth, NH
- Cathy Faucher, Nashua, NH
- Karen Wilson, Merrimack, NH
- Rochelle, Nashua, NH
Anyway, now I'm hooked and enjoying where the journey takes me.
- Julie Gatheral, Nashua, NH
- Monique Howard, Atlanta, GA
- Jessica Spinazola, Tewksbury, MA
Namaste,
- Pat Wymore, Lowell, MA
- Renee Nichols, Nashua, NH
- Sharron Rowlett, Nashua, NH
- Melissa Donahue, Chelmsford, MA
- Jim Burke, Chelmsford, MA
- Paulie Miller, Nashua, NH
- Amethyst Wyldfyre, Nashua, NH
Every time I leave Darlene's class, I feel a sense of calmness - like a weight has been lifted off of me. She pushes the worries and fears of the day out of my head.
- Sarah Brown, Chelmsford, MA
You push me to find my edge - Thanks!
- Emily Strong, Nashua, NH
You the woman who bares her soul to reveal her amazing energy...
The woman who trustingly raises her arms towards the heavens and with unwavering faith brings them back to her heart in prayer...
The woman who cares enough to touch, to help, to support, to feed the need...
The woman who seeks up and compassionately sends out acceptance, without judgment...
The woman whose soul shines in her face.
Gratefully acknowledge the gift that you are.
- Cindy Maloof, Nashua, NH
Playing baseball as a 40-something requires the same skills as playing as a youth. However, reaching the physical condition to have those skills is something new. Working mostly at a desk all week means limited body movement. Playing baseball requires sudden quick body movements in sometimes unexpected directions. Tight muscles result in either inability to move as you are intended or a strained muscle. Yoga is a great cross training exercise to strengthen muscles unused for too many years and stretch muscles that will be tested during weekend competition. I have found specific benefit in the full body movement required in batting. Yoga feels as if it has loosened my lower back and leg muscles to allow the quick turning of my torso necessary when batting. In the 2007 season I batted .515- the second best batting average in New Hampshire’s 38plus men’s league
- Dennis Hogan, Nashua, NH
Darlene's classes are awesome.....simply awesome. There are no other words to describe her class.
- Patti Schippani, Merrimack, NH
In football, a hard hitting player is said to "bring it". In yoga, Darlene "brings it".
So if you are looking to get leveled, try her class. Your spirit will rise.
- Joaquin Otazo, Chelmsford MA
I recently have taken up yoga and have found the benefits to both mind and body are enormous. I had the pleasure of attending a class taught by Darlene and while I am definitely
a beginner, she put me completely at ease. Her help with learning various poses and stretches,
along with her words of encouragement and inspiration all throughout the class made it a totally wonderful experience. To say I left the class refreshed and rejuventated would be a huge understatement! Thanks Darlene!
- Jack Swan, Nashua, NH
WOW...What an experience Darlene's class is. I have been engaged in transformational work myself for many years but never transformation at the level of the body and listening to my body's communication and I want to thank you for leading me through it. I am hooked no doubt. I have done lots of cardio and weight training over the years, but taking my FIRST Yoga class ever with Darlene was a real breakthrough for me. Darlene's gentle - yet very intentional and clearly committed coaching - had me reaching for my best in no time. Sixty minutes with her and now I'm hooked on Yoga for life. Through Yoga, I have a path to completely transforming my relationship with my own body.
This is powerful stuff... and Darlene is a master motivator.
Thank you Darlene!!
- Chuck Smith, Chelmsford, MA
I attended your 90 minute class with my twin sister Susan Noel on Saturday afternoon. The experience was more than I expected. I went at my own pace, seeing I was a newbie and didn't know the poses, and never felt out of place. I kept hearing your voice saying "child pose is a powerful thing" so that's what I did never feeling embarrassed doing so and it is indeed a powerful relaxing pose. Having you there to make adjustments was reassuring. There
were many times when you put your hands on my back while in childs pose and I was so relaxed that I got a great chiropractic adjustment! I felt things let go. It was great. This was something I've never done before and I feel that the older I get I want to try new things and have powerful experiences. Life is too short not to do so. So, thank you so very much. I'm hoping that I will be able to attend your Tuesday and Thursday classes at Fitcorp with my sister during the summer.
- Sandy Beaulieu, Lowell, MA
Run, don’t walk to find miss Darlene, tell her I sent you, she is located lots of places. Darlene is a force not to be reckoned with on and off your mat.. Darlene is always looking to raise the bar in and out of a yoga studio..and she will guide you to raise the bar. For yourself without you even becoming aware.. In Darlene’s classes, one gets the feeling they could be wiped out, but want to keep going because you don’t want to miss the journey , and the places, this yoga sherpa will take you...
- Aimee DeRoehn, Yoga Teacher, Road Home Power Yoga Studio, Plymouth, NH
Darlene, thanks so much for such a great class! It felt so good to be back at the studio for the physical and spiritual experience that I have missed so much! Definitely worth the drive from Portsmouth!
- Tonya Boyle, Portsmouth, NH
PAST EVENTS: TEACHER TRAINING IN NEW YORK
Returning back from Baptiste Power Yoga Teacher Training Bootcamp in the Catskills, NY, it took a week for this experience to sink into my bones. Just when you think you have evolved spiritually to a point where you are "self-actualized" the universe will send you on a path or expereince that will remind you that there's more where that came from. I made a lot of new friends, ate the best food of my life, and reached a new level of strength that brought my practice to a place I could have never done on my own without the guidance and support of those who held space for me to grow. Thank you Baron Baptiste, his entire staff, all the yogi participants and the Menla staff. Most importantly, that you GOD for guiding me every step of the way. With GOD in my life, I know who I AM!
This is the house I shared with six other women (and only ONE shower)
This is us chilling out in the kitchen.
This is the long road we had to walk from our house to the Menla cafeteria. The walk from the house to the kitchen is about an eight minute walk. Getting there was easy because it was all down hill. Coming back up was the killer.
This is me stopping for a drink on my hike back to the house.
This is a photo of the folks walking into the yoga room for our morning session.
This is me in Triangle pose.
This is me in Downward Facing Dog.
This is me in side plank. This pose took me years to get into.
This is the gang getting ready for Baron to lecture and demonstrate after our morning yoga class.
This is Baron talking about alignment in Shoulder Stand.
These next two photos shows Baron assisting a yogi coming out of Wheel and into a standing position. He makes it look so easy!
This is Baron going over in great details, some alignment issues with Triangle.
This is Gregor, a Master Baptiste Instructor, giving us the bad news after class that we only have 1/2 hour to shower, eat and then meet again in the conference center.
This is a photo of me in side angle. It was later in the week and it was a nice to practice with the candles glowing.
This is my roommates heading into the conference room.
This guy in the white bandana was from Texas and he was a hoot. I dined with him and a few others and he had me laughing so hard I could barely chew my food. We did a lot of heavy work in that conference room so his humor was greatly appreciated.
This is another shot of my roommates (I wish I had all of them in this photo). This was our last day together.
This is the Baptiste crew on our last seminar day. What a great bunch.
This photo below was taken many years ago. This was Baron's book signing after a yoga bootcamp weekend in Boston. This was actually my very first yoga class ever and went into body shock and later became a yoga junkie. Thank you Baron Baptiste. I had no idea what I was getting into and if I had known, I probably would have resisted. I'm so glad I just jumped right in. Sometimes, there's really no other way.
Namaste
Darlene