Feedback from YMCA meditation class participants

The Emma B Howe YMCA in Minnesota offers meditation classes. Here is what some of the class participants are saying:

“Kristin has a depth of knowledge along with a very accepting and clear teaching style. Just one year ago, I could not have anticipated that I would be practicing meditation and enjoying the peace of mind and healthier relationships that I have discovered. Thank you, YMCA, for creating opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy better physical and spiritual health. The YMCA seems to me like the perfect place to learn and practice something like meditation, which has such a profound positive impact, and that can be done by literally anyone.”
 – Debra Dorgan

“I enjoyed the meditation classes I took at the Emma B. Howe YMCA because in this busy, high-pressure world we live in today, it was so nice to learn a method for naturally slowing ourselves down in order to experience a calming, soothing state of mind.”
– Terry MacDonald

“I enjoy your meditation classes because they help me center myself in my very busy, fragmented world.”
– Nancy Giddings

“I truly believe that meditation has made such a difference in my life that I have developed more patience and tolerance on a day to day basis. I also believe that everyone, from perhaps ninth grade on should take meditation classes on a regular basis. This might do away with some of the anger that is so prevalent in today's society.”
– Jo Anne King

“The meditation class offered at the Y is a different kind of class. Kristin is an individual that has been doing a multiple of disciplines, and it is obvious. She conducts the class in a nurturing voice, paying attention to each individual's needs. I could take this class more often if the schedule permitted it, I thoroughly enjoy the time we spend at our meditation sessions.”
– Azeala Dominguez de Henao

“I always looked forward to getting to class each week. I raved about the first class so much that my sister took the second class with me.”
- Mary Hammond

“Meditation gives me tools to deal with my stress and gives me a sense of separation of my moods from who I am. A personal example of my experience with mediation having a positive effect on me: A few weeks into the first set of classes I signed up for, so many positive things began to happen (I had started to try to meditate daily). Off and on in the past several years, I had gone through phases where I looked for jobs but never had luck. All of the sudden, I got three interviews, one job offer, and a better job offer at my current company. Also, someone emailed me and said something like - "how do you always stay so positive at work?" It was odd to hear that when I was feeling stressed and unhappy at my job (and I am not exactly a positive person!)  I did end up changing jobs, but I am convinced that the meditation gave me a more positive aura.”
– Cheryl Obrien

“Through meditation classes we have learned ways to help us reduce the amount of stress and anxiety that we deal with in our daily lives. We are beginning to understand how to access the inner peace within ourselves and this is helping us feel more balanced on an emotional level. As we progress through the learning stages of meditation, we realize that the benefits are unlimited. We have enjoyed Kristin's enthusiasm, knowledge and gentle style of teaching the art of meditation.”
- Greg and Anne

“I have been struggling with depression for most of my adult life. And since taking your series of classes I have found a new joy that I am unfamiliar with, a deep gratitude for all the blessings in my life, more sense of calm in what would have previously been and stressful situation. I have even discontinued the medication I was on to treat my depression. It's not just a coincidence - it works! Your gentle loving spirit was so nice to be around each week. Thank you for all that you bring to, and give to the world!”
- 2006 class participant

“I really enjoyed the mediation class at the YMCA. It was good to learn different meditation techniques in a supportive, calming atmosphere. I always looked forward to coming to class and felt that the class was an important part of my week.”
- Michelle Englund

“Meditation classes are very convenient at the YMCA. I have learned so much. Having two small children, meditation is something that helps me daily deal with stress - I can't imagine my life without it! Thanks for everything - I have really learned a lot.”
– Heidi Meade

“These past two sessions have been great. I have noticed myself thinking differently when it comes to relationships with others and waking up more motivated to start my day. You motivate me to want to come to class and I thank you. Thanks for all that you do!”
-LaMee Vang