Celebrating a year happens everyday. We're always a year since this day last year and depending on the contents of that year, maybe the day is worth celebrating. Birthdays are a simple way to look back over a year because everyone has one. Having an April birthday has really framed up my year nicely, although it's been an interesting year for everyone on earth.

The Vision statement at Gaze is: A secure and supportive community of healthy people who hold faith in their human spirit.

This vision has been tested, realised, tested again, and continues to guide what I aim to do in my life. And where I hope to continually steer the business.

During the shutdown, reopening, and nearly a year of operating with increased safety measures in place, I've questioned each aspect of this statement. What the heck is health? For the past year health has been a daily prayer, a wish, and a gratitude practice.

"Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees" - BKS Iyengar

This quote comes to mind when I consider the second part of the vision statement. My health has been supported through the commitment to something greater than health. Spirit is the piece that says what are you going to do today? Are you grateful and building or are you weary and resting. Can you contribute to your health by showing up even if there is something holding you back?

My physical practice, has grown so much because of my willingness to transform, to try another angle. These past two birthdays have plugged me in to a new idea of health. One that includes willingness, gratitude, and patience.

Thank you so much to the entire studio community for celebrating me on my birthday and being this vision. Thank you also to all the folks at Jedi Fight Club for giving this next year a kick off I will never forget.

Wes Bozeman was Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork in 2009 and is a Florida Licensed Massage Therapist. MA58298 He began his massage practice after the birth of his daughter, when substandard maternity care cast a light on the value of bodily knowledge and wellness for his whole family. He began his yoga training in 2010 at Evolation Yoga in Tampa. Since then he has studied with Ida Jo and Scott Lamps at Ghosh Yoga, and countless other mentors along the way. He owns Gaze Hot Yoga in Tampa Heights where he teaches students, and teachers, and is happy to be their student too. Wes’ only goal for his practice is to empower his clients to be aware of their bodies, and facilitate healing.

2 birthdays, pandemic betwixt.