Saturday mornings at Yoga Among Friends are something special—and it’s not just the warm welcome or the way the morning light pours through the windows. It’s the people who show up with open hearts. And leading them each week with grace, wisdom, and a whole lot of authenticity are co-teachers Diane Doll and Marla Mothershead.
This is Foundations Flow—a breath-centered, beginner-friendly class designed to help you feel grounded, supported, and seen. Whether you’re brand new to yoga or returning to your mat after some time away, Diane and Marla are here to meet you right where you are.
So, who are the teachers behind the mat? We asked them to share their stories—and their answers are as heartfelt and inspiring as their classes.
Diane Doll: Therapist, Mother of Six, and Yoga Teacher with Heart
Diane first came to yoga seeking more hip flexibility, but she stayed for something deeper. “What kept me coming back was the ‘chill’ vibe of Yoga Among Friends,” she says. “It was more centered on the introspective benefits of yoga.” Over time, her practice became less about “achieving” poses and more about breath, presence, and grounding.
As a licensed therapist, Diane brings a unique depth to her teaching. She helps students not only move through postures, but also notice their thoughts and emotions with compassion. “Yoga teaches us to regulate our nervous systems,” she shares. “And that helps us bring attention inward safely.”
Her journey to teaching was inspired by a beloved teacher, J. Michael, whose legacy lit a spark in her. Now, Diane shares her own light every Saturday—with humor, insight, and a profound respect for each person’s journey. And yes, she’s a mom to six boys (some of whom have even joined her class!).
Her favorite pose? Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon). “I used to be unable to do it. Now I can. It reminds me how far I’ve come.”
Marla Mothershead: Nature Lover, Longtime Practitioner, and Gentle Encourager
Marla’s yoga journey spans more than 20 years, and her teaching is rooted in kindness and curiosity. After decades of practice, she felt called to share yoga with others—especially those who may feel like yoga “isn’t for them.” “I wanted to encourage people of all stages of life and physical abilities,” she says.
Her love of nature often shows up in class. A blustery day might inspire grounding poses; a full moon might guide the theme. She weaves the seasons into her teaching, reminding students that just like nature, our energy shifts and flows.
Warrior II is her favorite pose—“for its steadiness and fierceness.” It’s a fitting reflection of her teaching style: strong yet soft, nurturing but never pushy. Her guiding mantra? “Do small things with great love.”
What to Expect in Foundations Flow
So what happens in this magical Saturday morning class?
Expect true acceptance. Whether it’s your first class or your hundredth, Diane and Marla create space for you to come exactly as you are. No need to look like the cover of a yoga magazine. Here, the focus is on breath, awareness, and meeting yourself with kindness.
There’s no pressure to “nail” a pose. In fact, you’ll be encouraged to explore modifications, use props, and choose what feels right in your body. As Diane puts it, “We bring the floor to us, rather than force ourselves into a position.” From blocks to straps, every tool is an invitation to support—not strain—your practice.
The hour-long class strikes a beautiful balance between challenge and ease. Whether you’re easing into movement or craving a little extra fire, you’ll be offered choices to honor your body’s needs.
And most importantly, you’ll leave feeling valued and whole.
Why Saturday Mornings?
Life is busy. We get it. That’s why Foundations Flow is intentionally scheduled on Saturdays at 9:30 AM—a time when even the busiest among us can carve out an hour for self-care. There’s no Zoom option because this class is meant to be felt, shared, and lived in the studio—together.
“There are benefits to being physically present that virtual classes just can’t offer,” Marla says. Connection, community, and a shared exhale—these are the gifts you receive when you walk through the door.
Come As You Are. Leave Reconnected.
Whether you’re navigating a new chapter, managing stress, or simply looking for a gentle way to move your body, Foundations Flow is a beautiful place to begin.
You’ll find warmth, wisdom, and two devoted teachers who genuinely care—not just about yoga, but about you.
Join Diane and Marla on Saturday mornings. Your mat is waiting.
👉 Sign up for Foundations Flow
Saturdays, 9:30–10:30 AM
Yoga Among Friends, Downers Grove
Let this be the beginning of something steady, soulful, and just for you.
