How AcroYoga transformed my life

# Rediscovering Playfulness Through AcroYoga in Utrecht

## My Journey with AcroYoga

Eight years ago, I attended my first AcroYoga JAM. It profoundly changed my life.

At 36, I was a hard-working single, always ‘on the run’. I was searching for love and meaning. I traveled, visited festivals, worked out, dated, and chased deadlines. It was hard to stand still. I struggled to embrace the feelings of loneliness and unworthiness when I returned to my empty apartment.

One by one, the people I used to share life with “retreated” into their own little love and baby bubbles. Except for me. I was desperately longing for belonging. I wanted a place to call home and that special person to create a family with. But, of course, you can’t enforce love.

I loved my work as a journalist, but I didn’t find enough joy sitting behind a desk every day. I was stressed about deadlines and on the verge of burnout. I was already in treatment for RSI.

## Finding Connection in Utrecht

Looking for a way to relax and connect with like-minded people, I joined an AcroYoga JAM in Utrecht. It was the perfect event to attend alone. I met AcroYoga teacher and organizer Roald Penning, who would later become my co-teacher and business partner. But at that moment, I was just enjoying the JAM. I was amazed by how quickly I felt connected—to myself and others. The immense joy I experienced was unforgettable.

Everybody played with everybody. Strangers connected quickly, without the usual small talk. The flow of creative poses and transitions was endless. Time and worries faded away.

The physical connection fostered trust, balance, and body language. It enhanced my strength and flexibility. And then, the Thai massage exchange at the end! What a deep, joyful way to connect through loving touch and energy. It was an immensely rich and holistic practice. I fell in love with AcroYoga then and there.

## A Transformative Experience

From that day forward, my life began to flow. Weekly AcroYoga classes in Utrecht became the highlight of my week. They transformed stress into relief and loneliness into connection and meaning. My desire to explore every aspect of AcroYoga grew. This led me to meet my current co-teacher, Jos de Koster. We clicked instantly and practiced together for hours, many days a week.

The AcroYoga community in Utrecht—and far beyond—became my family. As I traveled to places like Amsterdam, Barcelona, and the Nowhere festival in Spain, I found instant physical connections and friendships with the AcroYoga community everywhere.

For the first time, I discovered a true passion that kept me healthy, gave me meaning, and was incredibly fun. It became clear: I wanted to become an AcroYoga teacher in Utrecht. I wanted to share this beautiful lifestyle of playfulness, connection, and movement.

## The Path to Teaching

Soon after joining an immersion with AcroYoga International, I began assisting Roald. About a year later, we offered our first AcroYoga adventure. This September marks seven years since that moment.

Over the years, I have grown in countless ways. I’ve become strong, flexible, and balanced. I developed greater body awareness, communication skills, and trust. I learned the art of loving touch. Teaching AcroYoga in Utrecht became a source of income, balancing my work as a journalist.

I felt so connected and fulfilled! The worldwide AcroYoga community became my family, and Playful People Tribe became my "child." From that place of belonging, meaning, and abundance—like roots in the earth—I found the courage and trust to pursue my dreams. I opened up to possibilities.

And then, just in time (I was 41), my son Reeza was born.

Words can’t describe the gratitude I feel that he is part of my life. The love I feel for him keeps growing and deepening. What a gift! Of course, becoming a family AcroYoga teacher was a logical next step.

## Continuing the AcroYoga Adventure

My AcroYoga adventure continues to evolve. My mission remains solid: sharing the healing and transformation that AcroYoga offers me with you! Through AcroYoga JAMS, classes, and courses in Utrecht, I aim to build a loving and playful community. A place where you can connect and feel at home.

So, are you ready to rediscover your playful side? Join us! Let’s embrace movement and connection together.

Welcome to the family!

Hug, Marijke