The Reflective Lotus

08/09/2025

This morning I had the privilege of joining a few other Thrive Empowerment team members at The Cincinnati Museum Center for the Epilepsy Alliance Ohio and the Epilepsy Surgery Program with Cincinnati Childrens Hospital.

We had a blast teaching children Empowerment Self Defense, Yoga, and Nia.

More pictures to come!

07/27/2025

For the past five weeks, I've been involved in an Empowerment self-defense class at

I've cried. I've yelled. I've found strength. I've punched, elbowed, kicked, fallen, and hit a new level of Badassery!

Thank you Thrive for allowing me the space to be all of me.

07/15/2025

07/07/2025

This Saturday, July 12th at 9:30 AM!

Join us at Jacob Hoffner Park in Northside for the next SHE+ Summer Yoga Series session, led by the

Whether you're showing up for yourself or coming with friends, the "Bring Your Friends pass" is still live: buy two tickets, get one free.

Location: Jacob Hoffner Park (corner of Blue Rock St. & Hamilton Ave)
Time: 9:30 AM
Date: July 12th, 2025

Tickets: [bit.ly/sheplussummeryoga] (http://bit.ly/sheplussummeryoga)

Start your weekend in community, movement, and intention AND support advancing women's sexual health in our region.

07/02/2025

The Reflective Lotus has exciting news to share. After working with recent graduate Greeshma Damala for the past year and a half we are excited to announce that she has joined the team as our Data Analyst!

"Hi, I’m Greeshma Damala!

I’m a Data Analyst with a Master’s in Information Technology, passionate about transforming raw data into meaningful insights. I’ve worked with various types of data including consumer reviews, product performance data, social media data, survey results, web analytics, and internal business metrics. My experience spans academic, research, non-profit, and corporate environments, where I’ve built dashboards and automated workflows, and uncovered patterns that support smarter decision-making. I enjoy exploring new tools, collaborating across teams, and using data to tell stories that drive impact.

Outside of work, I love expressing creativity through art, singing, dancing, and writing. I’m excited to bring my curiosity, creativity, and data mindset to Reflective Lotus and grow with a mission-driven team."

We are so glad to have you on the team, and feel so much gratitude for all of your contributions Greeshma!

Stay tuned for more updates from The Reflective Lotus.

06/27/2025

I'm sure that the font could get smaller....

Regardless of the small print, the big effort I put into completing this course is amusing.

It took me nearly 9 months to complete 5 hours of work. Lol.

06/20/2025

The Reflective Lotus has exciting news to share. After working with graduate student Shidhin Varghese Philip for the past year and a half we are excited to announce that he has joined the team as a Software Engineer Intern.

Introducing Shidhin!

"Hi, I’m Shidhin Varghese Philip—a builder, thinker, and lifelong learner with a deep passion for AI, programming, IoT, and robotics. For me, technology isn’t just about tools or code—it’s about exploring how machines can sense, think, and act to solve meaningful, real-world problems.

I recently completed my Master of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Cincinnati, where I explored everything from deep learning and intelligent systems to applied machine learning and data-driven innovation. My academic background also includes a Master’s of Technology from Amal Jyothi College of Engineering and Bachelor’s from Aarupadai Veedu Institute Of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering, which laid the groundwork for my journey into intelligent, connected systems.

I’ve always been fascinated by the creative potential of programming—the way a few lines of code can become something interactive, intuitive, or even life-changing. Whether I'm writing code for an AI model, wiring up an embedded device, or building an app from scratch, I find joy in the problem-solving process and in turning ideas into reality.

My passion lies at the intersection of the digital and physical worlds—where software meets hardware, and where intelligence meets impact. I'm constantly exploring new ways to push boundaries, learn something new, and use technology to make a difference."

We are so glad to have you on the team, and feel so much gratitude for all of your contributions Shidhin!

Stay tuned for more updates from The Reflective Lotus.

01/04/2025

With a New Year comes a New Yoga Schedule full of wonderful offerings.

🧘🏽‍♀️ Sundays 10am Queen City Mercy HealthPlex for a gentle yoga class.

🙏🏽 Sundays at 6pm Thrive Empowerment Center at The Annex for a Restorative Yoga session.

🧘🏽‍♀️ Tuesdays 5pm Queen City Mercy HealthPlex for a Yin Yoga class.

🙏🏽 Thursdays at 715pm Thrive Empowerment Center at The Annex for a Yin Yoga class.

🧎🏽‍♀️2nd and 4th Saturday 9am Queen City Mercy HealthPlex for a gentle yoga class.

Class descriptions are listed differently in the graphic.

12/23/2024

Find your balance both on and off the yoga mat. The practice of yoga instills in us a sense of balance and unity. It teaches us to harmonize our mind, body, and spirit, fostering a state of equilibrium that extends beyond the physical postures.

Yoga is not just about the poses; it is a holistic approach to wellness that encompasses breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness practices. By incorporating these elements into our daily routine, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and tranquility that resonates in all aspects of our lives.

Studies have shown that regular yoga practice can reduce stress, improve flexibility, and enhance overall well-being. It is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth, allowing us to connect with our inner selves and find a sense of purpose and direction.

Embracing the principles of yoga in our daily lives can help us navigate the ups and downs with grace and resilience. By staying grounded and centered, we can face challenges with a clear mind and open heart, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced existence.

12/23/2024

Today's mantra: "I am capable of amazing things." Repeat as needed. 🌿💪