Meet Patricia, Our Inna Spirit Member of the Month for July!
This month, we are thrilled to shine a light on the inspiring journey of Patricia – a warm, joyful, and determined member who lights up every room she enters with her smile, her humour, and her wholehearted commitment to her well-being.
What Our Instructors Say About Patricia
Tess: “Patricia always comes into the studio radiating warmth and her beautiful smile. She is positive, dedicated to her health and fitness, and brings a spark of fun to whatever she does! Love having you in class, Patricia!”
Paula: “Patricia is such a beautiful lady. It is a joy having her in my mat class.”
Silke: “Patricia has a big heart and makes everyone feel comfortable – even in the most uncomfortable poses – with her very British sense of humour! She has her mind (and body!) set on improving her well-being and works consistently on it.”
Patricia’s Journey – Her ‘Before and After’ Story
For Patricia, 2024 was a challenging year. After undergoing her 18th joint replacement surgery on her hands due to extensive arthritis, she faced a long recovery that left her feeling stuck and frustrated.
“I was so fed up with myself,” she shared. “I wasn’t doing much, and didn’t know where to start.”
She had tried gym-based programs in the past, even tackling long-distance treks like the Kokoda Trail and Milford Track, but the traditional gym environment and equipment just didn’t suit her needs – especially with her reduced grip strength.
Then a friend mentioned Inna Essence – describing it as “the most least gym-like place”, and a place where she felt completely at ease, even as an older lady just starting out.
Patricia decided to give it a go, signing up for a 3-week trial. In true Patricia fashion, she dove in headfirst — attending 11 classes in 7 days, and over 30 classes across the trial. By the end, she was hooked.
“The trial gave me such a great overview of the classes, the variety of instructors, and the fact that everyone was so considerate of what I could and couldn’t do at the time.”
Patricia was never made to feel left out or incapable. Every class came with genuine support and thoughtful modifications.
“The instructors really took the time to ask about my body, understand my injuries, and help me succeed. After the trial, it was a done deal — I signed up for life!”
Within just 10 weeks, Patricia began noticing big changes. She regained strength and mobility, and even achieved a personal goal she set early on:
“I could stand up from the floor without using my hands — something I hadn’t been able to do in a long time.”
While her journey wasn’t focused on weight loss, the lifestyle shift she embraced led to more mindful eating and better sleep — and she lost 10kg in the process.
She recently returned from a two-month overseas holiday feeling stronger, more energetic, and proud that she could fully enjoy long walks and adventurous days, all thanks to the foundation she built at Inna Essence.
“As soon as the jet lag passed, I got straight back into my classes. On average, I do about eight classes a week!”
What Keeps Patricia Motivated
Patricia loves the variety of instructors, the welcoming environment, and the special energy in each class.
“Everyone is greeted by name. I love the child-friendly classes where I get to be a kind of grandmother figure to the little ones. It brings me so much joy to connect with the mums and offer encouragement.”
She’s found a powerful rhythm – not one built on pressure, but on consistency and joy.
“You’re encouraged to try new things, but never forced. If something doesn’t feel right, there’s always an option to modify. It’s all about what’s right for your body.”
What Patricia Loves About the Studio
“It’s the most un-gymlike place you could ever find! You walk in and feel instantly at ease. You’re never pushed to go a million miles an hour – you’re encouraged to go at your own pace and celebrate every little win.”
But what truly stands out to Patricia is the genuine care.
“At other places, the warm welcomes disappear after you sign up. Not here. Andrea, Anna and the whole team continue to show true interest in every member’s life – through messages, emails, conversations. The connection never stops.”
She also loves that the other members share similar goals and interests – not just in fitness, but in building community and connection.
Patricia’s Message to You
“Fitness isn’t about being able to run a marathon. It’s about being fit for life.”
When Patricia started, she knew she had to begin at her own pace and build from there.
“If you haven’t exercised or looked after yourself in years, Inna Essence is the place to do it. The team will help you rebuild your strength and confidence — one step, one class at a time.”
She recently offered advice to a fellow classmate who didn’t feel she was progressing:
“I asked how many classes she was doing, and she said one a week. I told her from my own experience – it takes time, but try doing two or three. You don’t have to overdo it, but it’s consistency that makes the difference.”
