Everyone belongs at Artemis Yoga, we’re all learning and practicing together in a space that values kindness and connection. We celebrate the full spectrum of people who walk through our doors and we encourage self-acceptance and curiosity, not comparison.
Artemis Yoga is shaped by each student who walks through our doors. It’s a third space for people to meet or make friends who will support one another. Artemis Yoga has become a go-to place to connect and share the joys and challenges of life together.
In these Community Spotlights, we’re honored to share the stories of members who have made Artemis their yoga home. These reflections remind us that yoga is more than movement – it’s connection, resilience, and showing up for ourselves and each other, again and again.
Emma Thurston
Emma rediscovered her practice at Artemis in 2023. Returning to her mat not only helped her feel grounded & empowered, but also connected her with an uplifting community. Emma makes our studio feel even more like home.
Was there a moment at Artemis that left a lasting impression?
I had a significant Ashtanga practice for 25 years, even teaching at one point. With kids & a demanding job, I fell out of practice. My first class after years came about because I was experiencing a lot of life upheaval – new job, kids leaving for college, so I was really struggling to stay grounded. I knew I needed the accountability of an in-person class. I remember being worried that my much older body wasn’t going to remember the asanas & how to find my breath, but I did. It was so comforting & familiar, it felt like “coming home.” I remember lying in that savasana & feeling like I finally had my breath back. I’d missed my practice so much & knew I had to make it a regular thing.
How has Artemis become a part of your community?
Seeing the same people in classes & forming bonds with them, being around amazing Artemis teachers, and having pre-and post-practice conversations makes me look forward not only to the practice, but to the people. I didn’t come back to yoga to make new friends but it’s been an amazing & unexpected bonus, and I value those relationships so much.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
The people & the practice. The teachers are among the best that I’ve ever had the privilege of studying with. I’ve learned more in the 2 years that I’ve been a regular at Artemis that I did in the entirety of my 25+ years of practice. On top of being so kind, compassionate & warm, the teachers are incredibly knowledgeable. I know for a fact that the Artemis teachers have saved me from injury from postures that I had built bad habits into for years, and I’ve overcome fear of some advanced postures (looking at you, handstand) that I never thought would happen ever, much less at age 48. It’s such a clean, comfortable, welcoming environment filled with wonderful people – staff and fellow students – and I hope to continue my practice at Artemis for years & years to come.
Becky Doucette
In January 2023, Becky gifted herself a mini yoga retreat with our newcomer pass. What began as a personal reset turned into something more, and she’s been an integral part of our community ever since.
How did your yoga practice at Artemis begin?
I’ve been doing yoga on & off for 20 years, recently coming back into it during the pandemic (like so many of us). I followed youtube videos & IG lives, but when we moved to Watertown I craved challenge that couldn’t be replicated from a virtual experience. I walked by Artemis everyday & decided to commit. Between jobs I carved out two weeks for a mini yoga retreat & took advantage of the newcomer pass. I was there every day, sometimes twice. Now two years later, I still can’t say I’ve tried every single class Artemis has to offer because they’re always coming up with new ideas!
Was there a moment at Artemis that left a lasting impression?
There are a few classes that have left a lasting impression on me. One of which was last year on a Sunday morning in the upper studio. The teacher led us through a flow to greet the sunrise on a dark March morning. It was filled with heart openers & sun salutations. By the end as we laid in savasana, she read a poem about the release of winter’s woes and welcoming spring within us. The sun shone into our studio space at just the right time, and I cried. It is one of the most beautiful yoga flows I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
How has Artemis become a part of your community?
This type of joy & healing exists within Artemis because of the community that fosters this space. I’ve always regarded myself as being closed off & have made jokes in the past that “I have enough friends, I don’t need more.” But when you share breath with the same people in your neighborhood twice, thrice, or even four times a week, you become a part of their yoga practice as much as they become a part of yours. You cheer for them when they accomplish a handstand, you cry with them when they’re flowing through grief. I have made friends here who know my spirit & I couldn’t ask for anything more. This studio is sacred, and I hope to keep coming back for as long as Artemis will have me.
Steven Jackson
Through years of dedicated practice since 2016, Steven has discovered that yoga is not only a physical discipline but a pathway to connection, resilience, and joy. His appreciation for the Artemis community and the way each teacher uniquely inspires him, reminds us why we show up, again and again.
Was there a specific moment at Artemis that left a lasting impression on you?
The great team of instructors at Artemis have given me so many insights and memories, it is difficult to single out one. Each teacher brings a distinct spirit to class that benefits me uniquely. I attend classes as much to absorb that edifying presence as much as the exercises we do.
How has Artemis become a part of your community or daily life?
Practicing yoga at Artemis keeps me physically well, grounded, in touch with my breath, and with the many ways my body supports me. I also must mention the receptionists at the front desk who do a great job. They are unfailingly warm and competent and always leave me with the memory of a smile and kind words that support me.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
For years, I thought my body was a depreciating asset, and in some ways it is. But through prolonged practice at Artemis yoga, I see that my body is also an ever-growing source of connection to the world and that it need never cease to amaze for power and resilience. Thank you, Artemis!
Norah Mulvaney-Day
Norah has been a member since 2016! It’s a joy to watch her practice grow & to meet the wonderful friends she brings to class.
What's your first memory of Artemis?
I remember my feeling of elation when I realized that a yoga studio had opened up 5-minutes away from my house. Although I had practiced yoga in my twenties, I had stopped while raising my kids, and had felt for a long time that I wanted to integrate it back into my life. The opening of Artemis coincided with a period of loss in my personal life, and I started attending regularly within a month of its opening. It has been a constant presence in my life since that time, and it remains a critical component of my self-care routine, a valuable part of maintaining my physical, emotional & spiritual health.
How has Artemis become a part of your community or daily life?
I take at least two classes a week, Flow on the weekend & Restorative or Yin mid-week. I was so grateful how Artemis pivoted so quickly during COVID. I remember attending Liz Reiser’s Friday Yoga Nidra class the night before everything shut down, and how grateful I was for the Zoom classes that started up immediately during that difficult time. I love having the continued hybrid options – both for when my work schedule makes it difficult to attend a mid-week class & for practicing when I am out of town. I love running into long-time friends from my Watertown community at the studio. And I have a group of friends who often attend Liz or Gloria’s Saturday class with me.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
So many things! I have been coming for 10 years, and I love observing the way that yoga continues to help me uncover experiences in my physical body (Oh! I didn’t know I had that muscle) as well as my spiritual self. I enjoy treating myself to workshops (Alex’s Intention Setting & Sheryl’s Sound Bath are two favorites). I love the physical space & feel calmer the minute I walk in the door. As I continue to age, I feel more & more committed to maintaining my practice. I am so grateful to have a studio where the community welcomes practitioners across the age range, and will continue practicing well into my 60’s, 70’s & beyond!
Lorena Moynihan
Since her first class in 2018, Lorena has brought joy & energy to every class she joins. Here’s her story of showing up with intention & discovering the true meaning of yoga.
Was there a moment at Artemis that left a lasting impression on you?
It was at the end of class & the teacher offered a group “Om.” This is a common way to ground ourselves, but on that day, the vibration in the room was something I’ll never forget. The resonance of the sound felt much deeper & more powerful than usual—almost as though the entire space was alive with energy. I still think about it often.
It was a reminder of the impact we can have on one another when we share breath & intention, and it solidified the meaning of community in yoga for me. That moment has stayed with me ever since, and I’m so grateful to have had the chance to experience it.
How has Artemis become a part of your daily life?
Attending class has become something I look forward to. It’s not just the movement & breathing that draw me in, but the challenge to explore new poses & dive deeper into familiar ones.
There’s always more to discover, and I love that about yoga. I’m constantly challenged by balance poses & backbends, which are always a bit of a stretch (literally & figuratively!) for me. It’s been so fulfilling to continue chipping away at those challenges, and I appreciate how every class provides a chance to progress a little more each time.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
One of the main things that keeps me coming back is the incredible community. It’s truly the people—my yoga friends, the staff & the teachers—that make it such a special place. The support, encouragement & friendliness in each class make me feel welcome. It’s a joy to be surrounded by such positive energy.
The staff is always so accommodating, greeting me with a warm smile every time I walk through the door. And the teachers… where do I even begin? They are simply amazing. I’ve learned so much about yoga, not just in terms of poses & movement, but also about slowing down, calming my mind & being present. Their guidance has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate the atmosphere they create in every class.
Alex Aluna-Fernandez
Alex brings warmth, joy & curiosity every time she walks into the studio. We’re so inspired by her dedication to her practice and her drive to keep learning & growing.
Is there an Artemis moment that left a lasting impression?
My bestie Tessa gifted me a newcomer pass back in 2018. I guess I wasn’t ready to change my life yet so it gathered dust in my nightstand until 2023 when I was feeling drawn back to yoga. Leaving a yoga class at the rock climbing gym, I noticed the unmistakable Artemis magnet on the teacher, Brittany’s, car. I pulled over to strike up a conversation with her & she knew Tessa from the front desk staff. We grabbed coffee & I recalled that long-forgotten newcomer pass. Even before I began attending Artemis Yoga, it helped me foster new & deeper friendships. That’s what Artemis does – it brings people together. I didn’t expect much going into the newcomer pass but by the end of those two weeks, I couldn’t imagine not joining the studio. Artemis is more than a place to practice yoga – it’s a vibrant, close-knit & inviting community, and that was palpable even before I stepped into the studio.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
Artemis Yoga classes are a non-negotiable part of my routine. I am so proud of myself for remaining staunchly committed to my practice, because loyalty to my yoga practice means loyalty to my well-being. By showing up on the mat, I show up for my mental, physical, and spiritual health. My yoga practice, facilitated by the incredible teachers at Artemis, continues to imbue me with precious wisdoms that help guide me through my day-to-day life with confidence, groundedness, surrender & deep gratitude.
How has Artemis become a part of your community?
Frankly, Artemis IS my community. Words can’t encapsulate how grateful I am for the way Artemis has expanded my social network. Some of my closest friendships were born at the studio, and I relish the privilege to get to practice with them each week. Our ‘post-yoga yap sessions’ have evolved into taco dates, civic engagement, camping trips & book clubs, all of which bring so much love & warmth to my life. It all started at Artemis, our beloved ‘third space.’
Aubrey Woods
Aubrey stepped into our studio seeking mindful movement and a yoga home – a third space. After her first class, she knew she was exactly where she needed to be. Now, almost two years later, we can’t imagine Artemis without Aubrey!
Do you remember your first class at Artemis Yoga?
My first class at Artemis was Gloria’s flow class on a Saturday morning. I had recently done a weekend at Kripalu and was inspired to find a local yoga studio and start practicing regularly, so I found Artemis online and decided to give it a try. That first class incorporated all the spiritual and physical components of yoga that I was seeking. The music, the shared breath, and the challenging flow alongside people from my own community made me want to become a member.
How has Artemis become a part of your community?
My yoga practice at Artemis grounds me in my daily life. After moving around a lot in my twenties, finding a place away from home where I can feel like I am part of a community has been transformational. There is something so special about getting to share a movement and mindfulness practice in a space I feel comfortable in with people I feel comfortable around. I love coming to class and seeing friendly, familiar faces behind the desk, teaching, and practicing.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
After my first few weeks at Artemis, I remember coming home from every single class feeling amazing. Yoga makes me feel so good physically, and that is what kept me coming back at first. Although this is still the case, I have found the mental health benefits to be considerable as well. I didn’t realize how much I needed to set aside an hour or so in my day to just focus on my own wellbeing. Oh, and I love any excuse to chat with all the amazing friends I’ve made after class.
Paula Gorgone
Paula first joined us in 2017! Over the years, she’s explored a variety of classes, connected with teachers, and found a supportive community that carried her through even the most challenging times. Paula shared with us why Artemis Yoga has become a mainstay in her life, from the thoughtful design of the space to the people who make it feel like home.
Was there a moment at Artemis that left a lasting impression on you?
Before committing to a membership at Artemis, I decided to get ‘a taste and feel’ of the studio by purchasing a pack of unlimited classes as a holiday gift for a good friend and one for yours truly, me.
My first encounter at their front desk could not have gone smoother. At that time, Tracy Affonso, one of the yoga instructors, was there. She was kind, respectful, and helpful – leaving a lasting impression. This was in December 2017. The reception desk staff as you enter is only a prelude to how great Artemis is.
How has Artemis become a part of your community or daily life?
I joined Artemis as a monthly member in February 2018. Since that time, I’ve tried an array of classes offered, have had different instructors, and have attended at different times. It literally ‘got me through The Pandemic’ by offering classes online via ZOOM. Classes are offered either in person and still also online via ZOOM.
What keeps you coming back to Artemis Yoga?
The studio is spotlessly clean, gorgeously designed, and fully air conditioned. The placement of benches as you enter, the available free lockers to use while in class, their bathrooms available (also for changing if/when necessary), yoga equipment, blankets, blocks, you can borrow – are all arranged conveniently and efficiently with members in mind. Full-time monthly members even have storage areas for their individual mats.
The instructors are kind, courteous, respectful, and accommodating. There’s always a class ‘fit’ for anyone interested. I can’t speak highly enough for the owner, Liz Padula, also an instructor there. She couldn’t be nicer and more caring to all of us.
Try it, I guarantee you’ll love it.
Elizabeth Ross
We’re excited to share Elizabeth’s story of how she rediscovered yoga at Artemis:
“Yoga brings strength, calm & confidence into every part of my life. But like so many, my path hasn’t been linear.
I still remember my very first class with Marysia Gensler—now teaching at Artemis Yoga every other Sunday morning. At the time, I was struggling with migraines that interrupted my workday. Seeking approaches other than medication, I walked into a yoga class & walked out pain-free, clear-headed & renewed. That moment left a lasting impression, I was hooked. I dove into regular classes, progressed to learning more advanced poses & even attended a national convention.
Then came 2020. As a primary care physician practicing & working in Medical Information Technology, the COVID pandemic turned my life & schedule upside down. Studios closed, & though Zoom classes became an option, the digital experience left me feeling ungrounded & overextended. I missed the rhythm, the discipline & the people. My practice dwindled to once a week.
Fast forward to Fall 2024: now retired & eager to return to my mat, I found my way back to Artemis Yoga. I was physically depleted—experiencing weakness, instability & a shoulder injury that made Gomukhasana impossible. From the moment I stepped into the studio, Liz Padula & the Artemis Iyengar faculty warmly welcomed & supported me as I began the journey towards recovering my practice. Rahel Wasserfall quickly spotted patterns my body was falling into & guided me back towards more precise alignment. Mary Wixted gave me shoulder exercises that were instrumental in helping to get my shoulder back to baseline, & she, Victoria Kuenerz & Sue Gormley gently pushed me to explore poses I’d begun to doubt I could do again.
Today, I am so grateful to be a member of Artemis Yoga. Artemis is more than a studio—it’s a part of my weekly rhythm & a real source of connection and community. The students & staff are welcoming, the energy is positive & the faculty are extraordinary. What keeps me coming back is simple: at Artemis, I feel both seen & supported. It might sound corny, but here, transformation doesn’t just feel possible—it feels nurtured & real.”
