As I sit and reflect upon the completion of my “Learn to Love Yourself” workshop yesterday, I am so grateful and filled with joy at how truly wonderful the experience was. The anticipation leading up to the workshop kept me on edge but as the day approached I started to get really excited! It was so much fun planning out the structure of the workshop and finding just the right touches to make the day transformational.

I kept little things as surprises including informational and funny videos that pertained to our topic. The group discussed many of the issues that affect self-esteem and body image. I think it was a real light bulb moment for us when I pointed out that what is considered beautiful is so transient - it can vary from minute to minute and from country to country. We could forever try to match someone else’s ideal of beauty and still not feel self-love as a result.

The yoga session really tied together the discussion topics with physical movement that encouraged everyone to be aware of their bodies. I tossed in a couple of challenging poses but in the end, the group felt empowered by their ability to do these postures and it led them to feel proud of their bodies.

The fun part was the afternoon break where we had high tea complete with fine china, homemade scones and finger sandwiches (no, they are not made from real fingers!). All the women got a chance to chat, laugh and really get to know each other at a deeper level.

The group activity after the break, helped to solidify the bonds that were being created as we all helped each other break through our barriers and limiting beliefs regarding body image, personality and perception of self. I don’t want to give too much away but let’s just say that it was transformational!!!!

The best part of the workshop was all the wonderful women who attended. Each and every person is so special and they brought beautiful energy to the workshop. I delighted in the open conversation, sharing of personal stories and transformations that I saw happening right in front of me! The attendees walked into the room as strangers but then left feeling as though new friendships had been made.

I feel truly blessed!

Here's what one of the attendees said about the workshop:

"One of the best acts of Self-Love and Self-Care I've ever done was to attend Hema's Learning to Love Yourself workshop. For most of my life I have felt "less than" or "not enough" and have always been very critical of myself despite being kind, compassionate and loving to pretty much everyone else in the world. Through meditation, discussion, yoga and experiences, I felt a profound shift in my perspective and my beliefs about myself.

Hema is an amazing, wonderful, warm and compassionate woman, and I strongly recommend this workshop for anyone who has ever felt "less than", had self-criticizing thoughts, or who has been unhappy with their appearance. I'm so glad I signed up for this workshop, and I'm looking forward to future workshops with Hema." MG, San Jose

The next Learn to Love Yourself workshop is May 3rd 2014 in San Jose. Register now as there are only a few spots left!