I wanted to title this blog post “new look, who dis?” , but I opted for the more professional title.
On the one hand, this is no longer my personal little blog site I used to write on as a mom from home who desperately needed to talk to someone because the dog was a shitty listener.
On the other hand, I still am that mom from home that has a lot on my mind, but now a nonprofit to go with it. I now have some thoughts and questions I thought we could explore together. A safe space to listen to one another. (that means, comment back).
Hello, my name is Alysia. A nametag, nobody attempts to say out loud. Ever.
Alright, let me do this again.
Hello, my name is pronounced Aleesha. I have 2 little girls, a wonderful husband, and an ok dog. (she’s secretly by best friend). I love yoga, walking, eating, reading, and sleeping. I believe this means, the sloth is my spirit animal.
Almost 2 years ago, after my youngest daughter headed off to school all day, I began bringing my yoga teaching experience into settings which were originally outside of my comfort zone. I mean, I almost shit my pants my first class. True story.
These new places for me included, Juvenile Correctional facilities, PEP schools which I have heard others call “last chance” schools, and as of late, with survivors of human trafficking. I quickly found my home teaching within trauma sensitive environments. These are my people, and we have such a good time on our mats! So I called it ‘The Mat Project’, and my mission is to provide a safe space for women and youth to learn confidence and strength. Everyone gets a free mat, and together we practice growth.
Keyword, together.
Over the past couple of years, it’s not uncommon for teen girls to ask me “what happened to you? Why are you here with us? Were you in jail? Is your husband in jail?”
With the girls, I choose not to focus on myself with them in detail. I simply remind them, no matter how big or small our life challenges can be, we are all going through something. Life is sooo not easy at times, and if we can just take a little time and let each other know - “I’m here, and I will hold this space for you while you go through this moment… no matter how long it takes”, I believe life could be a little softer and easier for all of us.
With that being said, I have a feeling I will eventually share more about myself here, but for now - I don’t think I’m there yet. And that’s ok. I’m sure I’m not the only one.
Vulnerability is powerfully sacred, beautiful, and not to be taken for granted. For me personally, I’m very comfortable looking at you in the eye and knowing - I might not know your fears, or struggles, but I’m here for you.
No matter how big or small.
I’m starting to lose count of how many girls have looked at me during a session, and just started crying. This is where I’m meant to be. Holding this space for you, while learning how to hold space for myself.
My name is Alysia, I am excited to show off our ‘new look’ on our website, talk about life together on this virtual mat, and I’m so happy to be writing again!
This is a space for all of us. Let’s breathe.
Be well,
Alysia
There are many ways for us to do this together. Check out our website to learn more.