"Naomi is a gifted yoga instructor. Her classes are filled with 25+ students both at the beginning of the semester and at the end. For someone like me, who hasn't enjoyed physical exercise, I've found the right teacher and the right exercise for me. Naomi has been a Yoga instructor since 1982 and her enthusiasm for her work has not diminished. She consistently comes into class prepared…she frequently relays the importance of "outcomes" and that we need to set our goals and monitor our improvements.
…For me, the improvements have been outstanding. Having a serious back issue (fused spine with rods, nuts, bolts and screws) has impaired my flexibility, movement and balance. All of these issues have improved this semester along with learning to BREATHE correctly to reduce stress and tension. After avoiding exercise most of my life, now I can hardly wait ot get to class and on my mat. No one is more amazed than I am over finding an exercise I enjoy so much and that is also good for me. All this at 70. Glad I didn't give up looking for my "bliss". Thank you Palomar College, Thank you Naomi! I feel a new world has opened to me and I'm deeply appreciative of Naomi and the administrators who have brought this wonderful woman to teach her passion and share her expertise with her students."
- Nona McClue, Retired Center Mgr., Poway & Mt. Carmel
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Initially, I resisted taking Naomi’s Yoga Workshop, “A Spiritual Approach to Weight Loss,” because I didn’t want to spend the money. The flyer said it was about learning specific techniques to love, nurture and value my body. Well, I thought I was good enough already even though I had some limiting messages about myself. And I was willing to settle for what I was. Yet, I felt I was closed down and not growing, so I decided to take the workshop. Naomi called to discuss it with me and that it helped me make my decision.
About a month before the workshop around Valentine’s Day, my boyfriend suggested I get a makeover as a treat. But I didn’t feel I deserved it. So I said, “No.” Now it was time for the workshop. I showed up at the Goddess Studio in Escondido, which was a beautiful and nurturing space. There I felt my edges soften and my heart open. The exercise of writing on index cards what we want for ourselves was very helpful as was the suggestion to put the cards where we will see them. I left the workshop knowing something had shifted.
I was now ready for that makeover my boyfriend had suggested. So I got a haircut from a hairdresser who specialized in curly hair. After I got my hair styled, I got my eyebrows and face waxed. Next I went shopping at Chico’s on my hairstylist’s recommendation. This spontaneous decision was 180 degrees from the former me. I used to plan when I’d go to the bathroom. I’d been in Chico’s two times before with my daughter and had never bought anything for myself. This time I found a perceptive salesperson and kept trying on clothes until I felt gorgeous. I truly enjoyed the process of taking excellent care of myself. This was also new for me.
I would highly recommend this workshop to others, especially if it’s at the Goddess Studio. The workshop embodies the principles of softly thinking into self love. It was comparable to the way water rolls down hill, effortlessly. It was a letting go and embracing. I truly got to embrace myself in a way I never did before.
- Debra Katz
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Naomi,
Thank you for teaching this class. On the first day of the class, I must admit that I thought the class was a bit too easy. I was used to classes with slightly more difficult and complicated poses. After your class, however, I was absolutely amazed at the energy I had throughout the day. I have been going to your class weekly now for three weeks and can without a doubt say that it is your class that generates the energy I feel the remainder of the day. I am amazed. The poses are relaxing, uncomplicated and make me feel great. (Now looking back, I laugh at the stress the other yoga classes put on me, as I was always worried that I might not be doing the poses right.... I guess that is the point of gentle yoga????)
I look forward to seeing you each week and to telling my friends about your class.
Thanks again. - Vanessa
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Back and Spine improvement. More deep breathing and relaxation. - Helen Baggett
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Change in body shape, more flexibility, positive outlook, more energy. - Helly Repinski
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No aches and pains in the morning – greater flexibility, a calmness throughout the day, strengthening of legs. - Linda Browne
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More flexible, feel healthier and stronger physically, more energy, less joint pain, and can now keep up with my grandchildren. - Millie Hnkle
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I am more relaxed and I am addicted to this class first thing in the morning. I look forward to it. It’s like coffee in the morning. - Hilda
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Increased stamina and flexibility. Some muscles are more toned and increased energy & relaxation strategies. - Jody Morales
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Increased flexibility and strength. Thinking of becoming a yoga instructor. - Kathy Stroik
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No longer need blood pressure meds and I have more flexibility - Patricia
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Naomi is extremely knowledgeable in the field of yoga. She shows great empathy and concern for the members of her class. I am delighted to have been in her classes. She comes to each class very well prepared. - Ginny Wohlfiel
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Relaxed and feel balanced and peaceful. - Robin Mayfield
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I look forward to coming. I feel more relaxed, flexible and less stressed. Arthritis is an issue and the stretching, balance are important to me as I “mature.” - Sharon Hewitt
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I experience more flexibility, better breeding to improve my chronic cough. - Monica Stolt
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My muscles have stretched, more flexible, I always feel more relaxed after class. - Hilda Krattinger
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Improved flexibility, muscle tone is better, more mindful of breathing. - Susan Ghirardi
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More energy, flexibility and less irritation. - Susan Pasko
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Greater mobility and toning. Greater range of motion in shoulders. - Kathy Berman
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More flexibility, more strength, better breathing techniques, learning to relax and meditate. Great class overall! - Mary Ann Yeager
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More flexibility, less joint soreness, increased strength, better balancing. - Connie Ready
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My arthritis in spine is helped. - Doreen Long
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Body is firmer; I pay attention to breathing deeper. - Bonnie Klis
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Really enjoy the relaxation part of yoga. Better breathing. - Margo Pagnini