Today we’d like to introduce you to Journey Of Hope Yoga Bonnie Gruppen.
Hi Journey of Hope Yoga, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Bonnie Gruppen is the President and Co-Founder of Journey of Hope Yoga in Holland, MI.
I have been teaching a variety of fitness classes for over 40 years. I fell in love with yoga because of its many benefits, including mindful breathing, gentle stretching, and a greater sense of calm.
Ria Nieboer is co-founder and is a licensed complex trauma therapist. She is the owner of Wholehearted Counseling and yoga. Together we felt called to give back to the community. Journey of Hope Yoga was born after a year of prayer and listening for God’s direction. We’ve been around for eight years.
The studio is a Christ-centered ministry dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental, and welcoming yoga practice for everyone. We have a special heart for those facing difficult life circumstances, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addictions, chronic health concerns or other personal challenges. We believe in honoring our body and listening to it as every day is different,
Our mission is to encourage, care for, and connect with our community through free, donation supported classes that gently weave together a Christ-focused reflection, breath and mindful movement. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit and rely on donations and corporate sponsors to pay our instructors (Ria and I donate our time), facility costs, and utilities. One hundred percent of all donations go directly to the studio expenses and are tax-deductible.
Research suggests that yoga can support emotional regulation, calm the nervous system, ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, and promote better sleep. Yoga also may support cardiovascular health, digestion, healthy blood pressure, joint mobility, and overall physical well-being.
We currently offer ten weekly classes including two evening sessions as well as several morning classes. We offer a variety of classes from slow flow, balance & mobility, outdoor, and restorative.
Our “Slow Flow” classes are gentle and nourish the body while creating a focus on mindful movement and breath to create space in the body. This class also includes restorative rest.
The “Balance & Mobility” class is more supported. Falling is how we break bones, so bringing balance to the body is key. This class focuses on improving balance, mobility and strength while caring for our muscles and bones. Special consideration is given to those experiencing the effects of cancer, living with osteoporosis or other chronic health concerns. Modifications are offered, and props such as blocks, straps, chairs and blankets are used to support our body as we move. Restorative poses are always included. Anyone who prefers a more modified class is welcome.
Our “Community Yoga” class is led by certified yoga therapist Ria Nieboer. This trauma-informed class offers soulful, thoughtfully guided movement that supports the whole person-mind, body, and spirit. This class is held outdoors during the summer months at the top of the hill at Tunnel Park in Holland overlooking Lake Michigan.
No experience is needed for all of our classes, simply come as you are! We supply everything needed for all of our indoor classes.
Our website is journeyofhopeyoga.org. You are invited to join our classes through our website or just show up in person.
The studio is located at 12719 Riley Steet, Suite #85; Holland, MI 49424
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like many businesses, Covid was a challenging time. We offered some classes virtually as well as outdoors in a park.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have taught different fitness classes for over 40 years. I’ve taught cardio, step, kickboxing and zumba. My body needed something more gentle. I discovered yoga and fell in love with its benefits. The breath-work, movement, and restorative aspects. I love the fact that I will be able to continue my yoga practice forever. I have completed several speciality yoga trainings including Yoga4Cancer, Yoga for Osteoporosis, and Mental Health Aware Yoga.
Bringing a Christ-centered focus into the classes at Journey of Hope Yoga creates healing and hope. My passion is giving back to the community, and to be able to do with what I’m passionate about is my heart.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Providing a place for people to come that has a safe presence means so much. Connection with others is key when we are going through difficult times. The studio is free from competition, judgments and expectations. Actually walking through the door the first time is the hardest part.
Pricing:
- Non-profit
- Donations are accepted
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.journeyofhopeyoga.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journeyofhopeyoga/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/journeyofhopeyoga.org/
