Christine Maguire-DiLuglio is now the owner of one of Rhode Island’s most-loved yoga studios, but as many of us may relate, her yoga journey wasn’t always easy. “When I first began practicing yoga,” she shares, “like so many others, I had no idea what I was doing. I struggled my way through a handful of classes. I wore thick fleecy sweatpants because that was all I had at the time, which was not a great combination with the 105 degrees in that yoga room. It was not pretty–or even very zen. I wasn’t at the time what anyone would call athletic–I wasn’t even active. I pretty much despised every minute of those classes but for some reason, I kept returning week after week.”
Eventually, Christine fell away from the practice citing the usual excuses: it was too expensive, she didn’t have the time, it was so hard, and so on. However, several years later, she stumbled into another yoga class on a lark. She was approaching 40 and was out of work, overweight, depressed, and living with a parent. “I was lost,” Christine says. “I showed up for that first class and I’ve never looked back. It was literally a turning point in my life. The yoga was still hard, and the room was still hot. The prices hadn’t gone down either. The difference–this time around–the difference was that I didn’t hide behind my old excuses. I got front and center and I showed up. I showed up for myself. For the first time in my life, I showed up for myself.”
The Woods Yoga owner Christine Maguire-DiLuglio.
In 2016, Christine was leading an outdoor yoga program in a local park. Classes were well attended and when the days become shorter and colder, they moved their classes to another municipal (indoor) location and classes continued to grow. She began to realize that the community was ready for a real yoga studio. And so, just over five years from that day when she showed up for herself, Christine opened The Woods Yoga. She was called to show up. And this time, she wasn’t just showing up for myself, she was doing it for others. “I am humbly in the service of the community that has now grown around The Woods Yoga Studio,” Christine affirms. “Although my practice has changed and evolved over the years as a business owner, I am grateful every day that I get to share more yoga with more people through The Woods Yoga.”
The Woods Yoga studio front.
THE STUDIO’S MISSION & STRENGTHS
The Woods Yoga aims to provide a sanctuary where individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery, wellness, and personal growth through the practice of yoga and mindfulness. With a dedicated team, inviting space, and commitment to fostering a supportive community, The Woods Yoga invites individuals to embrace the transformative power of yoga and return frequently to continue their path toward well-being and inner harmony.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
The Woods Yoga’s Social Responsibility strategy encompasses sustainability, community engagement, employee well-being, and ethical business practices. By embracing these initiatives, The Woods Yoga not only contributes to a better society and environment but also gains a competitive advantage, enhances its brand reputation, and ensures long-term sustainability.
FINDING INSPIRATION
Christine expresses that she draws inspiration from so many places–the community, her husband and family, and successes after failures. Mostly she is inspired by her late father, Joseph Maguire. He was an educator in Providence, RI until he passed away in 2022. As a schoolteacher, Christine’s father helped and mentored countless students and colleagues. “I believe I was called to teach yoga because of the exposure I had to my dad’s gift that he shared with hundreds if not thousands of people over the years,” reflects Christine. “I know he is an inspiration within our community as well. I am overwhelmed by the number of people who have recognized me as ‘Joe’s daughter’ and tell me how wonderful he was and how he helped them or was an inspiration for them, and quite often had a huge impact on changing their lives for the better.”
A packed room of students flow through a vinyasa class at The Woods Yoga.
THE WOODS YOGA’S STUDIO GROWTH
With its start between the trees outdoors, to its first well-loved studio, and now in an expansive space doubled in size, The Woods Yoga Studio’s growth reflects its commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals of diverse backgrounds, interests, and skill levels. The Woods Yoga values its employees and prioritizes their well-being and professional development. The studio offers comprehensive training programs and opportunities for growth to its staff, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide exceptional service to clients.
The Woods Yoga also believes in giving back to the community and supporting local initiatives. The studio actively engages with local organizations, charities, and schools to promote wellness, yoga, and mindfulness. This involvement includes organizing community events, workshops, and donation-based classes to make yoga accessible to a wider audience.
The Woods Yoga is based in Providence, Rhode Island. Learn more about the studio at https://www.thewoodsyoga.com/.
This content was originally published here.
