Dear Students,
Twenty one years have passed since I introduced “hot yoga” to Louisville, Kentucky.
Its' beginnings took place in the living room of a rented apartment with space heaters. People came in droves to check out this new phenomenon! Before long, I was renting a larger space in the shopping center that is now Westport Village. Our Bikram Yoga College of India community developed there over the next ten years. When I got the itch to introduce “hot vinyasa yoga” to our community, we moved to our current spot and became Hot Yoga Louisville.
Other hot yoga studios have emerged over the years, but our community has remained the largest and most loyal.
Words cannot express my sincerest gratitude for you, each and every student, who have made my career possible all these years. I live, eat and breathe Hot Yoga Louisville, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week … whether you see me or not.
Some months ago, I knew in my heart it was time to pass the baton. I have been feeling overwhelmed in the market and unequipped to "keep up with the Joneses.”
This decision has weighed heavily on me, as I hope you can imagine.
Emily Johnson Welsh, a former teacher of HYL, came forward at the time, offering to
“take the baton”. Emily and I share some things- our birthdays and our initials, but most importantly Emily shares my passion for Hot Yoga Louisville. She was our teacher for several years before a year ago when she took a pregnancy leave. She is grounded, wise and well educated.
I feel confidant that Emily, along with her husband Caden, will grow our community to new heights! They have great ideas, alot of energy and are very excited about this venture.
Most importantly, Emily doesn’t want ANYTHING TO CHANGE ... same location, same name, same classes, same teachers … better ancillary services and studio improvements (i.e. they are already installing a filtered water fountain for you, the students)!
So yes, this past Monday, April 16th, I officially stepped down from ownership of
Betsy’s Hot Yoga Louisville. At this moment, it is bittersweet for me. It is surreal. I am numb.
You should know, like it or not, I am staying on to teach and practice my beloved yoga.
Please join me in graciously welcoming Emily Johnson Welsh and her husband Caden to the helm of Hot Yoga Louisville!
Love,
Betsy
