Dr. Sarah Hasenfratz, Offenbach
I have a Ph.D. in Chemistry, and I came to yoga through a roundabout way. Skepticism is in my nature, but so is curiosity.
Years ago, yoga was already a popular topic. However, to me, it always seemed somewhat esoteric and appeared to be suited only for people with "rubber-like bodies." One was unfamiliar to me, and the other, I didn’t possess. Still, I tried out various yoga schools and concluded that yoga wasn’t for me.
Sandra Scherer was my dance teacher. To warm up, we began each class with yoga exercises. Over time, I started to really enjoy them.
After about six months, I realized that I wouldn’t get very far with dancing. So, I suggested to Sandra that we do yoga instead. It wasn’t just a better choice; it was the best choice.
For the next seven years, I practiced yoga with Sandra once or twice a week. These sessions became highlights in my stressed life—marked by work, family, a dog, and numerous other commitments.
The two-hour yoga classes were a true source of energy. I felt my body becoming stronger and more flexible with each session. I learned what deep relaxation feels like and how to push beyond my limits—I never thought I’d be able to do a headstand one day.
Sandra’s sense of security and empathy played an enormous role in these sessions—and over time, they seemed to transfer to me. Additionally, her knowledge, professionalism, and attention to detail in working with my body were invaluable.
I learned an incredible amount from Sandra Scherer. She also introduced me to the philosophical world of yoga teachings. She taught me to understand concepts like "breathe through the pain" and "good pain." Through her, I also came to know the abstract feeling of the "oneness" of mind and body. And today, I know this has nothing to do with esotericism.
When Sandra left Germany, it left a huge void for me. It was a true loss of quality of life. I searched long and desperately for a new yoga teacher. After Sandra, this was an almost hopeless endeavor.
I miss Sandra and our yoga sessions together very much. But I hope we can reconnect through ZOOM and bring back the good old days of our lessons.
