Welcome to our 108 Yoga
community page —
a space to celebrate our
members and their unique
journeys.
Each week, we highlight one of
our beautiful students who
bring their energy,
devotion, and love
to our studio.
Delaine Sanders
Feb 23, 2026
She/her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I began practicing yoga at HYR about 10 or 11 years ago.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Laughing with “the back row” during the 108 breaks.
What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Truly, it’s the community that Tracy (and her family) have curated.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I like to swim, play with my grandkids, teach my dog tricks, garden, and read.
Whats your walkout song?
“I won’t back down” Tom Petty
One word to describe you?
Quirky
What is your favorite class? And why?
Of all the classes I’ve taken, Flow is my favorite. It’s challenging while still meditative.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I played fast pitch softball a couple of years in college.
Molly Blemker
Feb 16, 2026
She/they
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class with my mom over 15 years ago. I started calling in a more consistent yoga space/community last year and that’s when I met Saylor at the pool and got invited to my first 108!
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
There’s a depth and sacredness to tap into that always returns me home to myself. I also love the way it helps me consistently show up and explore my edges.
What’s your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The rooted energy. I’ve practiced in so many spaces, but 108 feels like family. There’s such a felt connectedness, to each other, and to the roots of the practice.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love spending time in nature, reading, writing, traveling, going to shows or music festivals, or just staying cozy at home with my partner and our kitty.
Whats your walkout song?
“Back To The Top” by CloZee
One word to describe you?
Authentic
What is your favorite class? And why?
I love them all for different reasons - the grounded presence of Rise, the heat and energy of Blaze, the flow state of 108.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I was supposed to move to Liberia, then the pandemic hit and my whole life path changed… and led me to become a therapist :)
Leigh Anne Ratliff
Feb 9, 2026
She/her
When did you start your yoga journey?
The winter of 2024.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Seeing improvement, knowing there are always things to improve upon; that's like a gift. Being able to experience these feelings alongside supportive friends is a treasure.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Walking in and seeing my mat on the floor, already set out, next to friends, shows me that I'm expected, I'm wanted. This brings me such comfort and joy and has enabled me to build community and thrive.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love reading, watching ncaa basketball with my husband (go Illinois!), chatting with my mom or kids, gardening and plants in general, sewing, and snuggling with our two pugs, Athena and Apollo.
Whats your walkout song?
”Remember the Name” --Fort Minor
One word to describe you?
Optimistic
What is your favorite class? And why?
108! Sunday mornings at 7am, bathed in the reddish glow of the Hadeed Mercer sign and the sun is starting to come up, standing alongside my friends and marveling as we make it through the various rounds... I know I am right where I'm supposed to be! Doing a practice I wouldn't have thought possible but is :)
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
There is a tradition of quilting in my family and I love quilting and sewing. I have a gorgeous quilt that my great grandmother and grandmother made together (my grandmother gave it to me on my wedding day.)
Chad Gresham
Feb 2, 2026
He/him
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class in 2015. I jumped right in taking 90 days of hot yoga in a row.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Reconnecting with my breath. The Ujjayi breath.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The teacher.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Spend time with the family.
Whats your walkout song?
“Forty Six & 2” -TOOL
One word to describe you?
Capable.
What is your favorite class? And why?
108, because it is the most meditative practice. You can focus solely on your breath.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I had a spiritual awakening at age 33. I’m always on the edge of chaos and greatness, and terrified of both.
Sarah Beck
Jan 26, 2026
She/her
When did you start your yoga journey?
My mom had yoga videotapes that my sister and I would do together. But my first regular practice was with Tracy at the pool.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I’ve grown so incredibly confident in my body. I feel strong and flexible. I love my body exactly as it is for the first time in my life
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I know everyone says it, but the community. Building community is so important, but now more than ever. I love how 108 is a safe place to share, learn, and grow.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Being mama to my kids, James and Louie; playing a board game with my best friend/husband Dale; gardening; drawing or painting; fixing things; doing something worthwhile with friends; or reading. …all best done with a hot cup of coffee.
Whats your walkout song?
“We Run This”-Missy Elliott
One word to describe you?
Creative.
What is your favorite class? And why?
Flow has a special place in my heart since that’s where it all started. But honestly, I think Work is my favorite. I cannot even believe the breakthroughs I’ve had there that I’ve been able to carry over to other classes.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I can understand and read Italian and am working on improving my conversational skills as well. In 2024 it was my goal to read the entire first Harry Potter book in Italian. I read the second book in 2025, and now I’m starting the third one.
Katie Lough
Jan 19, 2026
She/her
When did you start your yoga journey?
My first experience with yoga was taking it as an elective in college. Over the years I would periodically take classes. With the opening of 108 Yoga, I am practicing regularly.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I love when I get into the flow during a class where my mind is clear. I also love the peaceful feeling I carry with me after class.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I love that I get to spend more time with my family (I'm Tracy's sister) and being a part of this 108 yoga family.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love going on adventures with my sons. This summer we went on a cross country road trip exploring 17 National Parks. I also love salsa dancing, mountain biking, and this year I am going to start section-hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Whats your walkout song?
“Dog Days Are Over” -Florence + The Machine.
One word to describe you?
Kind.
What is your favorite class? And why?
My go-to class is Rise. It is the perfect way to start the day.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
My sisters, Tracy and Nikki, and I were state and national baton twirling champions. Our mom was a baton teacher, and much like Tracy's life is yoga now, our lives were baton twirling back then. You might still catch us twirling fire batons together on the 4th of July.
Kylee Hooper
Jan 12, 2026
She/her
When did you start your yoga journey?
Yoga found it’s way into my life about a decade ago, but didn’t evolve into a consistent practice until February of 2024.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
Feeling the mental quiet that comes with intentional movement and breath.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Connection of the community and the love that moves within and comes from it.
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
Anything outside or music related - Hiking, camping, trail running, climbing, traveling, and seeing live music!
Whats your walkout song?
“Let The Good Times Roll” (Live at Folsom Field, Boulder, CO, 7/1/23) - Dead & Company
One word to describe you?
Thoughtful.
What is your favorite class? And why?
Blaze, the natural pace creates this beautiful flow state and a calm mind found in the physical challenge.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m on a quest to visit all the U.S national parks - I’ve adventured to 13 so far!
Saylor Gresham
Jan 5, 2026
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class in 2015; I was 6 years old.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
How everyone in the room is going through something, whether you know about it or not, together we find our strength and peace within the practice.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
108 yoga is a dream come true!! It’s still so surreal.
Every time I’m in the space I’m so full of gratitude and pride, constantly amazed by the love and support of the community. I’ve met so many amazing people here, that I know will be life long friends!
What do you like to do when you’re not at yoga?
I love to spend time outside, and at our river house, listening to music and being with family!
Whats your walkout song?
“Crimson and Clover” - Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
One word to describe you?
Compassionate.
What is your favorite class? And why?
Blaze. I love the exciting energy and music.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I can sing the alphabet backwards in 3 seconds!
Julie Schliessmann
Dec 29 , 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took a few classes at the gym in 2017, but really got into yoga in 2024 at the pool with Tracy.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
It gives me confidence and I feel stronger. I’m always learning and receiving great information to improve my practice, and my breath.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
108 is a warm and friendly space. Everyone is so welcoming and it feels like family. I really like the time after class when everyone is chatting, and getting to know one another.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
Traveling, walking, reading, crafting and going to lunch with friends.
Whats your walkout song?
“American Girl” - Tom Petty
One word to describe you?
Gentle
What is your favorite class? And why?
My favorite class is Flow, where it all started for me. I love practicing with my friends on Saturday morning.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I started a book club with some friends 25 years ago, and it’s still going!
Rylee Gresham
Dec 22 , 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I started practicing yoga in 2015 when my parents brought me to their classes. What began as something I did just to join them, quickly became a steady source of grounding in my life.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I really enjoy the stillness it offers. It allows me to step away from the constant motion of everyday life and slow down.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
My favorite thing about 108 is simply that it exists. For as long as I can remember, my mom has dreamed of owning her own studio, and seeing that dream come to life has been incredibly special. Watching her step fully into what she was always meant to do, and witnessing how deeply loved the space is, and how much peace it brings to her students, fills me with immense pride.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
I love reading and knitting, I love going on walks and watching movies with my family. I'm a bit of a homebody, I just love being home.
Whats your walkout song?
”Mr. Fox in the Fields” -Alexandre Desplat
One word to describe you?
Steady.
What is your favorite class? And why?
My favorite class is Soul. I love how it weaves together different practices while still feeling entirely unique.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I am almost always humming without being aware of it.
Keisha A. Jones
Dec 15 , 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I started my yoga adventure in 2018. I had some health issues and decided to get back to practicing again in 2023.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I enjoy turning inward to see what I need for that practice, and what I can release and leave on the mat.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
Everything! This space has become a spiritual place for me to seek sanctuary and connection. Everyone here has such beautiful and authentic spirits, and I always leave here better than I came.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
I like to go for walks, and read!
Whats your walkout song?
“Golden” -Jill Scott.
One word to describe you?
Intentional.
What is your favorite class? And why?
All of them!! But, if I had to pick I'd say 108 because it’s foundational, challenging and it sets my week up right.
I also love Blaze, which was my first vinyasa class, and it always motivates me to try something new!
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I am a total introvert!
Chris Burnette
Dec 8, 2025
He/Him
When did you start your yoga journey?
In 2023, Elisabeth and I were at the gym when she asked if I wanted to try yoga/taekwodo class. I was a little skeptical at first. The class was overwhelming and challenging, but the benefits were amazing, mentally and physically.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I like the challenge. It is inspiring to see the growth in my practice and what I can accomplish. Also, I like how grounded I feel after every class. This has been a tough year for us, so it’s a time to find peace within the practice.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
At 108 Yoga I feel like part of the family.
The studio is warm, happy and welcoming.
Everyone gives the best advice and feedback during practice. There is a constant feeling of care and support.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
Play music, and hang out with friends.
Whats your walkout song?
“Doin’ things Right” - Billy Strings
One word to describe you?
Caring.
What is your favorite class? And why?
108 and Depth. They are the complete opposite of each other. After 108, I feel so accomplished and grounded. After Depth, I feel at peace. It is exactly what I need to close my day.
.What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I just celebrated 10 years of sobriety.
Elisabeth Burnette
Dec 1, 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
January 2023 was when I took my first yoga/taekwondo class at our gym. Which evolved into a regular yoga practice, and to meeting the Gresham family at “pool yoga.”
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
This has been the hardest year of my life, and being able to come to a safe place, with Chris by my side, and just be told to breathe, has gotten me through difficult days.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
108 Yoga always feels safe and inviting. The studio feels like home. I also love the music!
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
I spend a lot of time at the river. I like to walk my dogs, cook and listen to audio books!
Whats your walkout song?
“Masterpiece” -Jessie J
One word to describe you?
Quiet (until I get to know you).
What is your favorite class? And why?
108… It’s the easiest and the hardest practice. I can just get lost in it. Also Soul, which is a very challenging practice. I’ve never experienced a class exactly like it.
.What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I was one of the editors for a local cookbook!
It’s called “Celebrating with Ukrop’s Great Food.”
Anne Carroll
Nov 24, 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first class last year on Thanksgiving,
and began 28 days of hot yoga on January 3rd, 2025 at HYR where I met Tracy. She is a brilliant teacher, so I tagged along with them as I continued to learn, grow and heal through yoga and community.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
What I love most about my practice is how clearly the mat mirrors life. Some days you can lift your leg over your head and balance with ease, and other days you try the exact same thing and fall right down - but you get back up.
It’s one of the only physical practices where there’s literally nowhere to go: its just you, your breath, and your mat. It asks you to meet yourself exactly where you are, every single time.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
108 yoga feels like home away from home.
Everyone feels like family, and it is very therapeutic.
Right when you walk in, there is a very welcoming feeling, and the studio has a warm, cozy vibe.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
Hang out with my niece. Journal,
pray, listen to music and make playlists!
Whats your walkout song?
”Believe” - Cher
One word to describe you?
Friend.
What is your favorite class? And why?
Tracy’s Blaze class was my first vinyasa experience, and it opened something in me— I felt like I was meeting myself again. The practice is challenging but healing, pushing me to stay present, breathe, and trust myself.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I was homeschooled.
Kyra Gresham
Nov 17, 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first yoga class in 2014, and began a daily practice in 2015.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
My practice holds a space for stillness and strength.
A rhythm where calm meets motion, and emotions can move freely.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The discipline. At our studio we share a commitment to show up for ourselves and one another. We accept the challenges in front of us, and honor the work it takes to transform.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
If I'm not at the studio, I'm usually painting, baking or tending to my herb garden.
Whats your walkout song?
“Iron Man” -Black Sabbath
One word to describe you?
Creative.
What is your favorite class? And why?
Depth. I enjoy that class because it helps me feel calm and grounded.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
That I created all the class names.
Tonya Washigton
Nov 10, 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first prenatal yoga class 2007, and my first hot yoga class in 2011.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
The mental peace that comes from the
practice.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The people.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
Think about yoga, and plan out my next class.
Hang out with my kids, listen to books, watch movies.
Whats your walkout song?
”U Don’t Know Me” —T.I
One word to describe you?
Content / Curious
What is your favorite class? And why?
That’s like asking me to pick a favorite kid.
Soul and 108. They are both foundational and complete
practices. They give you strength, endurance, flexibility, and mental clarity.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
My middle name is AyiKo-Bia, and I'm pretty sure my mom just made it up.
Alex Graf
Nov 3, 2025
She/Her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I started practicing yoga in my thirties with Kelly Trask, and continued during both my pregnancies. Then in 2006 I stared roller derby, taking a long pause on yoga until 2024 when I started practicing again at the pool with Tracy.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
The community. feeling centered and connected to others. 108 feels like that.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
I love how genuine and authentic it is.
Also how I had a part in making it happen.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
Quilt, pet my dogs, I enjoy my work at ZZQ and Eazzy Burger. Being at the pool, and floating.
Whats your walkout song?
“You Can Have It All” - Yo La Tengo
One word to describe you?
Orange Mama
What is your favorite class? And why?
Soul. I love the wholeness. the spiritual, physical, and mentally mediative aspect of it.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m afraid of heights.
Megan Randall
Oct 27, 2025
she/her
When did you start your yoga journey?
I took my first class in April 2024, but I began a daily practice in June of 2025.
What do you enjoy the most about your practice?
I enjoy the stillness I feel after setting my intention. When I practice, I have less anxiety and feel as though everything has fallen into place.
Whats your favorite thing about 108 Yoga?
The community, it gives an energy that is both welcoming, and replenishing.
What do you like do to when you’re not at yoga?
I love being with my daughter, and playing with my dogs. I start each morning with a daily devotion and coffee. I’m also on a volleyball team called “Getting Diggy With It”.
Whats your walkout song?
“Whole Lotta Love” - Led Zeppelin.
One word to describe you?
Effervescent!
What is your favorite class? And why?
108 - I love the feeling of transcendence.
It’s the hardest workout mentally and physically, but I love going through it with everyone. Afterwards, I feel both exhausted and energized!
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I love to be independent, but crave deeply for someone to do the hard things in life with.