Showing up anyway
Carissa Collins | JUL 29, 2025
My first few lakeside yoga classes at Portage Resort gave me so much hope. The sun was warm, the energy was high, and curious campers strolled over with their mats or borrowed one of mine. People invited friends. There was a natural flow of community and it felt like something beautiful was taking off.
But when I started offering public classes outside of that setting, the reality felt different. There was no built-in campground crowd, no one wandering by on their way to morning coffee. These classes needed planning, registration, commitment.
And my first week
The first two classes had zero sign-ups. I canceled both.
The third class had one person register. Just one.
I stared at that number and felt a flood of doubt. Should I cancel again Should I wait until it feels more worth it
But then I thought, what if this one person is enough What if I show up for them like they are the only one in the world who matters right now
So I did.
I taught the class. I created a cozy, mindful space just for them. I guided breath, movement, and presence with care. We moved under the sky and it felt good.
And you know what It reminded me why I started this in the first place.
Not for big crowds. Not for instant success.
But to offer something real. Something grounded.
It is easy to feel hopeful when the campground is full and the mats are lined up. It is harder when things are quiet and uncertain. But I am learning that the quiet moments matter too. That showing up when it is small is just as important, maybe even more.
Maybe that one person will return next week. Maybe they will bring a friend. Or maybe they will not.
Either way, I will keep showing up.
Also, a little shoutout to Amy
Thank you for showing up with your beautiful energy and open heart
So thankful for you girl
If you are building something and it is starting out slower than you hoped, I see you. Keep going. Small beginnings still count.
-Carissa
Carissa Collins | JUL 29, 2025
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