The Unbroken Circle

You know you've truly had a life-changing experience when you don't want to leave the confines of your newfound sacred space. This is definitely the feeling I got this morning as attendees finished up their last few sessions, rolled up their yoga mats for the last time and visited the Inner IDEA marketplace to sign up for next year's event or buy that CD or must-have book. People formed a very strong circle this weekend. You could see the bonds forming in the community breakfasts and lunches. The ring strengthened during sessions as attendees shared insight. It doubled over itself again and again.

This transformative experience altered the landscape of professional wellness. The education offered by the stellar presenters had an instant depth and wholeness. Attendees were not learning the essentials, basics, or exploring the surface tension of a concept - they were mining a rich cave of jewels that sparkled from every angle. If you thought you understood breath, Leslie Kaminoff taught you how to breathe better and to understand how to teach it more effectively. If you believed there was only one way to move, Lawrence Biscontini reminded you not only of the other planes of motion, but the unfound freedom in your own joints. If you had decided that Pilates was not your home after all, Moira Merrithew and John Garey not only reminded you of your passion, but reinvigorated your expertise.

During the closing ceremony, Inner IDEA director of programming Marcia Hayes invited the crowd to join hands and form a huge human circle. "Inner IDEA is each and every one of you," she said. "Your journey brought you here and your journey continues. Thank you for sharing your time, intention and presence." As hands slowly released and attendees filed out of the room, the larger circle created during the weekend remained unbroken.