Newest Instructor: Nicole Kropp

August is bringing many exciting changes to The Studio including an awesome, expanded schedule and a BRAND NEW instructor! Without further ado, we'd like to introduce you to Nicole Kropp. She is so excited to be joining our team and will be teaching AntiGravity® Fundamentals on Sunday evenings at 5:30pm. Check out Nicole's interview below and don't miss her 1st class this Sunday, August 14th!

How did you get into AG yoga and fitness?
I got in AntiGravity yoga and fitness through word of mouth. I had just finished my 200-hour yoga teacher training and had heard a friend of mine got certified in and started teaching AntiGravity! Eventually I connected with Shira and took a few classes with her. I immediately knew that this was something totally different than anything I'd experienced before. My spine felt incredible and the many knots in my back from arm balancing in yoga were starting to get smaller and less painful!

What’s your background?
I am a soon-to-be 500-hour certified yoga instructor. I practice all types of yoga but particularly love hot yoga and Ashtanga vinyasa. I'm also an avid spinner, jogger, and enjoy practicing martial arts as well. I came to AntiGravity because of its ties to the yoga world, but stayed because of the unique system it provides for healing the body.

Why AntiGravity®?
I have only experienced aerial yoga and fitness via AntiGravity certified instructors, and knowing the creator, Christopher Harrison is the originator, I knew I wanted to stay with the purest form of aerial. I was so incredibly impressed during my training by how complete this practice is and my eyes were opened to all the ways the body can heal from it. I also fell in love with all my teachers and the staff at Christopher Harrison’s AntiGravity LAB in NYC where I completed my training.

Any comments to your future students?
I would tell my future students to keep an open mind and playful attitude coming into AntiGravity!

Newest Instructor: Laurie Miller-Donnis

We couldn't be more excited to welcome the talented Laurie into the Soul Flyte teaching community! To start, she'll be teaching Fundamentals on Wednesday's at 9:15am. She officially starts on August 10th! She's a rockstar (literally and figuratively!), so don't miss the opportunity to take her class - sign up and show her some love! Check out our interview with her below:

How did you get into AG yoga and fitness?
A friend of mine took me to my first AntiGravity class at Soul Flyte in 2015. I was hooked the moment I attempted my very first inversion, which was Spiderman. I couldn’t stop smiling during the entire class, and as I drove home I couldn’t wait to get back in the hammock. I started taking more classes at Soul Flyte over the following year and received my CAGI (Certified AntiGravity Instructor) Level 1 Certification in 2016. I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of the awesome Soul Flyte team and global AntiGravity community!

What’s your background?
I’ve always been attracted to movement and music. I started dancing when I was four years old and continued to perform as a dancer, singer and actress through high school and college.  I discovered yoga for the first time when I was in college - taking the occasional class here and there - and then started practicing regularly in 2010 after my children were born. Yoga really resonated with me; I spent the next few years discovering my practice and eventually earned my RYT-200 (Registered Yoga Teacher) certification through Yoga Alliance and Mandy Grant of Juluka Yoga in 2015.  I currently teach adults and children at several yoga studios in Bergen County, NJ.

In my spare time, I perform in a local classic rock cover band with my husband, serve as a co-leader for my daughter’s Girl Scout troop, and participate in the parent-teacher association at my children’s school. (And I still love to go out dancing from time to time!) 

Why AntiGravity®?
Besides the countless health benefits, I love AntiGravity because it makes me feel like a kid again! Whether teaching a class or taking one, I always feel an incredible sense of well-being, happiness and confidence when I’m in the hammock. AntiGravity proves that fitness can (and should) always be fun and productive.

Any comments to your future students?
Trust yourself - you can totally do this! 
(And you’re going to have an absolute blast when you do!) 

Student Spotlight: Wanda Acosta

Meet Wanda Acosta — our student spotlight for this month! Wanda started flying with us March of this year and hasn't stopped since! Seems like she's got the Soul Flyte bug and is officially hooked! We are constantly impressed with Wanda’s attitude, dedication and hard work towards her practice. Here is a bit more about her — check it out: 

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?
I was introduced to Soul Flyte by my girlfriend, Annie.

What’s something you can't live without? 
I don't think I could live without books.  I love reading.  I'll take a good book over a TV any day. 

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 
Back pain is what brought me to SF.  I’ve suffered from back pain and plantar fasciitis for years now and found that most forms of exercise only caused me more pain.  Being able to decompress my spine by hanging upside down has helped me so much.  I am getting stronger with each class.

What’s your favorite time of day?
Mornings are my favorite time of day because I get to spend quiet time in prayer and reflection.  It’s my ME time.

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?
My favorite pose is front belt.  The first time I did it I couldn't wait for it to be over but now I look forward to it. I LOVE IT!!!

What’s the best meal you've eaten? 
My favorite meal was in Sorrento, Italy last year at a place called Il Bucco.  We had the most delicious fish and pasta dishes I've ever tasted.

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?
My favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte is that I have so much fun while working out. I actually look forward to coming to class. The instructors are amazing and they encourage and motivate you along the way.

Would you recommend it to others? 
Yes, absolutely. It’s a fun way to work out.

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: 
My favorite place would have to be Positano, a small town in the Amalfi Coast in Italy.  The views are spectacular, the people friendly and lively.

What's your favorite book? Movie?
Favorite book would have to be The Notebook and favorite movie is a classic called Imitation of Life.  I cried my eyes out during both. 

What's the craziest thing you've ever done? 
When I was a teenager in Puerto Rico, my cousin dared me to ride a bike with no brakes down a steep hill while wearing a dress.  I was lucky I walked away with only cuts and bruises after taking a nasty fall mid-hill.  I still have the scars to prove it.

Student Spotlight: Kiara Mignone

Our student spotlight of the month this month is Kiara Mignone! Kiara started flying with us January of this year and hasn't stopped since! We love watching the progression of her flexibility and strength, and the bliss she feels and exudes after each class! Read our interview with her below:

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?
I did a web search for yoga places in my area and the name "Soul Flyte" stood out from all the rest and gave me such a good feeling.

What’s something you can't live without?
I would die if I couldn't create art.

What brought you to try your first class at SF?
To be honest, a panic attack.

What’s your favorite time of day?
Depends on the day, but during the week, I am looking forward to running to Soul Flyte and spending time practicing aerial yoga!!

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?
Queen bee! <333 🐝

What’s the best meal you've eaten?
I love me some gluten free pasta with chopped up sun dried tomatoes, shiitake mushrooms, spinach, red pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. 😍 Chicken Francais though...

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?
There are really too many things to name! Swinging in the hammock, stretching out and watching the progression of flexibility and strength, and of course, the bliss I feel after the class is over.

Would you recommend it to others?
105% yes!!!!!!!!

Favorite/best place you've traveled to:
I really enjoyed Arizona. But I love Vegas for the sole purpose of EDC Las Vegas, which is an incredible music festival, Electric Daisy Carnival!!!! 

What's your favorite book? Movie?
Four agreements by Miguel Ruiz. This book is a game changer and should be a required read for all.
Big fish. Whimsical story. Great cinematography. Wonderful actors. Tim Burton. Enough said.

What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
Traveled by myself to a state I've never been to before and just winged it!

Anything else you want to share?
The sense of community at Soul Flyte is amazing. It really is one big family, very welcoming, non-judgemental, and the teachers are patient and willing to work with you to help you along your own aerial yoga journey! Each and every class is different and wonderful in its own way, thanks to the lovely strong women who lead them! I <3 Soul Flyte.
*~Namaste~*

Student Spotlight: Ashley Laliberte

This month our student spotlight of the month is Ashley! She's been rocking out her classes, building strength, confidence and having so much fun since September. Check out her interview below:

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?
I've been working in Nyack for about two years now. I was looking for a yoga studio close by and a friend mentioned Soul Flyte! I was very intrigued and signed up for a class the next day. 

What’s something you can't live without? 
Besides my phone and Netflix?  Coconut oil! I use it for everything.

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 
I actually started as a birthday present to myself. I was determined to branch out and try something new that could be just for me. I've been hooked ever since!

What’s your favorite time of day?
I love the afternoon around 3pm when the temperature's at its peak. I miss it a lot due to work and it's always a treat to get to be out in the sun!

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?
Bomber will alway be one of my favorites. When I first started I didn't have the strength to get up and over. Now it comes very easily for me and it was a real turning point in my practice!

What’s the best meal you've eaten? 
Soup dumplings in Chinatown. I learned of their existence in college and now I go every chance I get!

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?
I love coming each week and noticing the progress I've made. It's also such a wonderful community to be apart of! Everyone is very encouraging and supportive. 

Would you recommend it to others?
I have many times! I'm currently working on getting my boss to join me for a class. I'm sure she'll love it!

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: 
Last year I visited Nerja, Spain. It's a beautiful beach getaway. It was a very relaxing, peaceful experience. Definitely one of my favorite trips to date!

What's your favorite book? Movie?
I recently read The Art of Racing In the Rain. It was an amazing book that I highly recommend for any dog lovers! My favorite movie is The Princess Bride. It's a classic in my house!

What's the craziest thing you've ever done?
This may not seem like much but I recently got an industrial ear piercing on a whim! It was spontaneous and very out of character for me. No regrets!

Anything else you want to share?
Come visit me at Paws on Main of Nyack if you're ever in need of some pet grooming services!

Student Spotlight: Tricia Shea

This month our student spotlight is Tricia Shea. We're honored to have her be a part of our community since she comes in each time with a smile and ready to get down to business! We love that she takes all of our teachers classes and is always ready for some fun. Read more about Tricia below:

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?

A friend of mine that I follow on Instagram had posted some great photos and I knew that I would love it!   

What’s something you can't live without? 

Probably lip stuff. Between my car and my bag I have more than a dozen assorted glosses, balms and chapsticks with me!

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 

I needed to change some things up, and I felt like this would be something I could really get into - And I have. I truly look forward to the classes each week.  

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?

I think Pheonix pose is beautiful - while it takes a lot of strength and flexibility, it looks so graceful.

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?

The instructors - while they have different teaching styles, they are all so supportive and encouraging.  

Would you recommend it to others? 

100%!   

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: 

Key West, FL. I've been with both friends and family and made so many happy memories. 

Newest Instructor: Kate Woolley

We are beyond excited to welcome Kate onto our teaching staff at Soul Flyte! There's nothing like adding some new teachers to an already awesome group of rockstar instructors. Catch her on the schedule on Saturday's at 10:45am. She officially starts on October 31st! Sign up and show your support. Learn more about her in this interview below:

How did you get into AG yoga and fitness? During the Nyack Street Fair back in May, Soul Flyte had a booth and was handing out information. A friend picked up one of their cards and mentioned that she wanted to check out a class. I didn't know anything about AG yoga and fitness at the time, but I wanted to try something new and fun. I Googled Soul Flyte and a week later I was in a Fundamentals class.  From that day on, I was in every class I could make at Soul Flyte. I got to indulge the secret circus performer inside myself!

What’s your background?  I grew up in the fitness industry - it has always been a part of my life. My parents have owned a local gym for close to 40 years. Over the past 12 years I have received multiple certifications through AFAA, Les Mills, PiYo, (now) AntiGravity and soon Booty Barre.   

Why AntiGravity®? AntiGravity is about both the body and the mind. I am a person who has always had trouble finding stillness and being present. AntiGravity has allowed me to do both while also getting a fun workout.   

Any comments to your future students? Trust in yourself, believe in yourself, and have the courage to try something new. I believe in you!

Student Spotlight: Jillian Singer

This month, Jill Singer is our spotlight! She's been coming to the studio since January and her practice has grown immensely throughout that time. Check out her interview below!

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?
Last January my friend asked me if I wanted to join her for a private class at Soul Flyte so I decided to try it out. 

What’s something you can't live without? 
I cannot live without chocolate! I always have some type of dark chocolate in my house. I wish I couldn't live without something like celery but chocolate is just too good. 

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 
Kayla Braca! And we still go together every week. 

What’s your favorite time of day?
My favorite time of day is when the sun is a golden color right before it's about to set especially around this time of year when the air is crisp and the perfect temperature. 

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?
My favorite pose is a tie between bomber and any type of handstand. I love bomber because it looks really cool and it takes so much strength to hold the pose. I really love doing handstands and headstands too. In the beginning I would dread doing them in class because they would tire me out so quickly but now I feel accomplished when I'm able to balance on my own.

What’s the best meal you've eaten? 
The best meal I've ever eaten is my great grandmother's Italian wedding soup. She passed away a few years ago at 99 years old but my grandma and mom still make it in her honor and it is delicious!

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?
I love the environment. Throughout the whole class everyone supports one another no matter what. Even when you can't get a move down perfectly everyone else still applauds and tells you how well you've done. When I'm in a class full of people I've never even met you can still feel the love and you become friends from that day forward. Of course I also love the fact that it's a great workout while also having so much fun. 

Would you recommend it to others?  I would recommend it to everyone I know! I post a bunch of pictures and every time I see friends who I haven't seen in a while they always ask me about it and tell me they want to try it out one day. 

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: I recently traveled to Italy and that is definitely my favorite place I've traveled to. The culture, food, art, history, climate, scenery, everything about Italy is so amazing (especially the wine) and I can't wait to go back. 

What's your favorite book? Movie? My favorite book is The Pact. I think I've read it about 4 times and I could read it over and over again. My favorite movie is Thirteen. I've watched it over 100 times. My sisters and I even watched it with the commentary a few times so we know all of the secrets when they were filming. 

What's the craziest thing you've ever done? The craziest thing I've ever done was be a guest in the Big Apple Circus. My mom gave me and some friends front row seats at the circus a few years ago. In between the acts they had a male and female clown come out into the ring and interact with the audience. At one point the male clown came up to me and had me stand up on the outside of the ring while the female clown was on the other side "getting jealous" that he was talking to me. When he walked back to me he put his arms out to give me a hug but instead he scooped me up and brought me to the middle of the ring! They gave me a pool noodle so I fought the female clown in the ring with a noodle. It was very funny and I have a video if you ever want to see!

Anything else you want to share? I just want to say that I'm so happy Kayla brought me to my first class at Soul Flyte.  Besides the fact that it is a great workout, adding yoga into my workout routine was the best thing I've ever done. Even when I'm having a bad day I always walk out of class feeling happy and relieved from the stress of the day. Thank you to the Soul Flyte team! 

Retreat to India THIS Fall!

Interested in traveling to India this year? We’re going to Kerala, which is in South India! We will travel together, eat delicious food together, practice yoga and meditation together and experience the amazing culture that India has to offer. Learn more about our trip below:

Journey to Kerala, South India: Tour + Yoga

(Cochin – Munnar – Periyar – Kumarakom – Kovalam -Trivandram)

October 28th – November 8th, 2015

Sample Tour Itinerary:

Oct 28th – Airport pickup at Cochin, stay 2 nights in Fort Cochin at Casino Hotel

Oct 29th – Morning yoga. Visit the Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church. Stroll the streets lined with spices and antiques. See a kathakali traditional dance.

Oct 30th – Drive to Munnar, surrounded by tea plantations, stay 3 nights at Mountain Club

Oct 31st – Morning yoga. Explore national park, tea museum, tea factory

Nov 1st – Morning Yoga. Day of leisure and enjoy a walk through the tea and spice plantations

Nov 2nd – Drive to Periyar, spice country and India’s best-known nature reserve, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Stay 2 nights at Poetree Resort. Enjoy an elephant ride through the plantation and a walk through the spice garden.

Nov 3rd – Morning Yoga. Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Periyar searching for wild elephants, bisons, sambar deer and more!

Nov 4th- Drive to Kumarakom and stay overnight on an air-conditioned, deluxe houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala, All meals included when on houseboat.

Nov 5th – Drive to Kovalam and relax on the beautiful island for 3 nights at Poovar Island Resort.

Nov 6th – Morning yoga. Relax, leisure at resort, or enjoy Kovalam beach

Nov 7th - Morning yoga. Relax, leisure at resort, or enjoy Kovalam beach

Nov 8th – Last day to relax and leave for airport.

Tour to Kerala Includes:

- 4 Star Hotel Accommodations

- Transportation in and around India including airport pickup/dropoff in India

- Wonderful English speaking tour guide

- Yoga/meditation classes with Shira

- Daily vegetarian breakfast & dinner

- Overnight on a houseboat

- Kathakali traditional dance show

- Elephant safari

- Spice plantation visit

- Boat ride on Lake Periyar

- Entrances and national parks, museums and monuments

Tour Excludes:

- International round-trip airfare to Cochin
- Visa for India
- Tips for Indian guides, drivers, porters etc.
- Camera entry fees for tourist attractions
- Laundry services

- Transportation costs which are outside of the tour activities
- Any activities or items not mentioned in the itinerary
Please note: All meals served will be vegetarian. If you wish to eat meat, poultry, eggs, fish or drink alcohol this expense will not be covered by the tour.

Cost per person 12 Days, 11 Nights:

Double Occupancy: 2,550

Single Occupancy: 3,250

$500 deposit to hold your spot. For a more detailed itinerary please email: shira@soulflyte.com

Student Spotlight: Cristina Konior

This month our student spotlight is Crissy Konior. She's been coming to Soul Flyte since January and is about to hit her 100th visit! She's getting stronger in every class and is such a pleasure to be around! See her interview below:

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?

My amazing friend Jenni told me about soulflyte back in the Fall while we were in Puerto Rico. I was intrigued because she was doing all these crazy yoga poses in our hotel room and on the beach and I was like "where'd you learn that?"

What’s something you can't live without? 

This is a tough one, if I had to pick one thing I'd have to say music, because no matter what kind of mood I'm in, I can listen to music and either chill myself out or get energized. That was kind of deep. I also think I'd throw a fit if Chapstick didn't exist.

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 

While out to dinner on New Year's Eve, my friends Jenni (who told me about SF) and Melissa told me to try it as my New Year's Resolution. We all signed up for a Restorative Class together later that week and I can honestly say I've actually kept my resolution this year!!

What’s your favorite time of day?

I am certainly NOT a morning person, but I'd say late afternoon or evening depending on the time of year.

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?
I have a few! I love Chandelier, and recently I've learned this super fun flying comet, star swinging combo in Flying Fitness. 

What’s the best meal you've eaten? 
Anything related to Pizza or Tacos.

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?
Challenging myself everyday in class to push myself harder, seeing myself getting stronger, and of course, the awesome flygirls and Instructors I've met in class.

Would you recommend it to others? 

Absolutely

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: 

No matter where I've been there's no place like NYC.

What's your favorite book? Movie?

Don't laugh, my favorite movie is Twister, yes the one from 1997. My favorite book, I would have to say is Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson.

What's the craziest thing you've ever done? 

Run into a burning building (I was a volunteer firefighter for a few years).

Anything else you want to share?

If you've been thinking about trying Soulflyte and haven't yet, it's definitely worth it, for so many reasons you can't even imagine.

Your Dream Body - Redefine Your Goals: by Kim Jordan

Your “dream body”—the word “dream” suggests aspiration, motivation, and ambition; A dream is something pleasurable, which brings joy. Yet why does the idea of one’s “dream body” conjure up so much negativity? Self-improvement is a positive thing, and is something we work on throughout our lives. Yet all too often, we lose touch with reality, aiming for immediate perfection that simply cannot be achieved. We become so wrapped up in aesthetic goals that we emphasize the wrong things, neglecting what truly matters. We fail to acknowledge the progress we have made, and instead concentrate on what we have not done—or in this case, what we do not look like. We dread the onset of gorgeous, warm weather because of something so silly as how we look. How can we fix this? How can we healthily achieve our dream bodies for summer, and most importantly, year round? Should the goal really be to look good in a bikini, or should being healthy, happy, and confident be the goal? Can we have both? Of course. But it requires a shift in focus.

Firstly, we need to think about the idea of the “dream body” more holistically. A dream body would function the way it should, not fight against you—it would feel revitalized in the morning, maintain a healthy weight without struggle, and feel strong and capable, allowing us to do the things we love. A dream body would be energetic, vibrant, and effortlessly beautiful because it is healthy (Notice no mention here of six-pack abs or a thigh gap). Secondly, we need to stop focusing on outward appearance, and instead focus on health. Why? Well first of all, what’s the point in looking the way you want to look, but feeling like crap? And secondly, internal health precedes and creates vibrant external self. Our bodies are programmed to be healthy and resilient—we simply need to give them what is necessary to make this happen every day: nourishment (good food), activity (exercise and movement), and stress-management (quality sleep and time to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate). It’s that simple.

Give your body what it needs to be healthy, and you will achieve your dream body. Let your outward appearance be a reflection of inward health and vitality by keeping the following in mind: 

1)    Get rid of the idea of “diet” as a short-term, restrictive plan. Instead, think of it as its true definition: the way you eat… or even better, my favorite: “habitual nourishment.”

2)    Eat a variety of real wholesome food, not just edible “products.” The less man-manipulated a food, the more nutrition present. The more nutrition your body gets, the better it can function (more on that in Part II!)

3)    Listen to your body. When you’re hungry, eat. When you’re not, don’t. Your body knows what you need.

4)    Learn the difference between hunger and cravings. True hunger is a sign from your body that it needs fuel. Cravings are specific—you need a certain food and you need it now.

5)    Focus on quality over quantity. Stop restricting the amount of food you eat; instead, think of food as your means of nourishing your body.

6)    Return to the tradition of meal-time: Sit down to eat actual meals, prepared by someone who put time and effort into creating that meal, and focus on enjoying your food and your company!

7)    Banish negativity and restriction. Think of what you are giving to your body instead of thinking about what you’re taking away. And remember to treat yourself once in a while and enjoy it!

8)    Move, often. Be active simply because it benefits you as a person—not just physically, but also emotionally, spiritually, and even socially!

Is it wrong to have aesthetic goals? Absolutely not. But focusing only on the end result, without emphasis on the journey to get there isn’t only less than healthy, but it isn’t very fun, nor successful most of the time. Your “dream body” will never be your dream body unless you feel great in it. So instead of obsessing over a number on the scale or certain dress size, let’s turn the focus to creating the right internal environments, and let our bodies be an outward, vibrant manifestation of our health. Instead of depriving ourselves to reach a desired physical appearance, let’s instead give positive attention to nourishing our bodies and giving them what they need! Instead of hating our bodies, nitpicking our physical imperfections, and punishing ourselves, let’s pay more attention to our strengths, work on our weaknesses, and love our bodies for all they do—regardless of how they may or may not look. The rest—whatever physical goal you have for yourself-- will take care of itself once the internal stuff is worked out. I promise.

---

Meet the author:  Kim Jordan is a health educator, nutritionist, and co-owner of Hippie Healing, currently completing her Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) certification. Sharing her passions for real food, functional fitness, and natural products, Kim aims to prove to others that we are meant to thrive, and that the lifestyle we choose to lead is the foundation to achieving our full potential. Her goal is to help others uncover the root causes of their health challenges, and use food as a tool to become their happiest, healthiest selves. She sees clients one-on-one, and teaches nutrition workshops throughout the area. For more information, visit http://www.eatingtothrive.net/ and follow her on Instagram @kim.jordan.

If you’re interested in more personalized nutrition guidance, contact Kim at KJordan.wellness@gmail.com 

Student Spotlight: Samantha Rivera

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?

I discovered Soul Flyte through an online search for AntiGravity yoga in Rockland County. I don’t know what led me to choose Soul Flyte over the other studios listed in the search results, but I am so glad I did!

What’s something you can't live without? 

I would have to say my pets, specifically my two cats. They have been with me through my hardest times, and they still love me.  (As long as I feed them on time.)

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 

I have been wanting to try AntiGravity yoga for a while, and the range of classes available sounded exciting. 

What’s your favorite time of day?

Noon is by far my favorite, especially on a gorgeous sunny day!

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?

 I feel like I'm constantly changing my mind on this one, but at the moment it's the Harrison Handstand.

What’s the best meal you've eaten? 

My dad’s homemade manicotti with his incredible pasta sauce

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?

I've met such incredible people by coming to Soul Flyte.  The instructors and fellow students have an awesome range of personalities that add a great vibe to each class.

Would you recommend it to others? 

I already have!

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: 

Canterbury, England. I hope to go back some day!

What's your favorite book? Movie?

My favorite book is Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk.  My favorite movie is actually a bizarre tie between “Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay” and “Unbroken”.

What's the craziest thing you've ever done? 

Do my college years in general count as an answer? I'm going with that.

Anything else you want to share?

Becoming a student at Soul Flyte has seriously changed my life for the better. I have scoliosis and an autoimmune disorder (yay, genetics!); both of which were so bad that I was in constant pain, inactive, and just plain miserable. I feel like a different person now, thanks to the physical and mental aspects of practicing AntiGravity yoga with Shira, Leigh, and Emyli as my instructors.  (Hopefully I'll get to have a class with Jenevieve, Robyn and Ruth someday soon!) I'm healthier than I have ever been before, and I am so thankful that I made Soul Flyte part of my life!

Newest Instructor: Robyn Corujo

We couldn't be more excited to welcome Robyn into the Soul Flyte team! She's got some incredible spunk that's contagious and has anyone who comes into contact with her laughing and working their butt off! Check out her classes, she officially starts the second week of April! Check out her interview:

How did you get into fitness: I got into fitness completely by accident. I was taking Cardio Kickboxing classes at a Karate studio and the owner said to me, "You're really good at this. You should think about teaching!" And I was like, "Um... ok, sure!" And so I did :)

What’s your background? I am a certified Group Fitness Instructor through the Aerobics And Fitness Association Of America and I also have specialty certifications in Turbo Kick, PiYo, TRX Suspension Training and Booty Barre. I am also an actress by trade so I really enjoy the theatrical aspects of being a Group Fitness Instructor. In a lot of ways, it's like performing. 

Why AntiGravity®? AntiGravity is so different and out of the box and because of that, it's right up my alley. I also enjoy the many health benefits of the practice.  It's good for the body as well as the mind.

Any comments to your future students? We are all capable of so much more than we even realize. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new. You never know where it can lead.

Mother Ganga, The River

In my travels to India this month – I had the joy and honor of bathing in the Ganges River. At the foothills of the Himalayas lies this beautiful, light green, freezing cold river that is said to be holy by Hindus from all around the world. People come from near and far to bathe in its sacred waters. I had the privilege of seeing it everyday for 5 days and I even purchased mala beads (meditation beads) that I dipped in the river. As I washed the malas in the river, I chanted positive affirmations to charge them – making them even more powerful.

This experience was beautiful and I wouldn't have passed it up for anything. I feel grateful and honored to have had this opportunity and I can't wait to go back!

If you would like to have a piece of the Ganga, come to the studio and purchase your own mala beads today! See you soon.

Lunar Magic by Jenevieve

As the snow continues to, once again, come down, I can't help but feel the excitement of warmer weather around the corner. This month's "Worm" moon, (that was full at 1:05pm today) symbolizes the ground thawing and earthworm casts reappearing thus inviting the return of robins and... spring! The magic of the moon is a beautiful thing, creating the ebb and flow of the oceans and tides and much more. All life forms have cycles of birth, growth, death, and renewal that mirror the lunar cycles.

Month after month women's menstrual cycles mimic the moon cycle "coincidentally" lasting 28 days. If you are like me, you tend to feel a little crazier around the full moon. When the moonlight is at it's fullest we tend to be more prone to accidents and injuries, so it's a good idea to take it slow and be gentle with ourselves and others. The full moon, by nature, rules feminine aspects such as our emotional self, allowing us to shed layers that are no longer serving us. Finally! moving forward into spring, It's good to try and release any part of you that feels heavy or is not benefiting you anymore.

In honor of today's lunar magic, try to become aware of the energy that's building and transform it positively. 

Written by Jenevieve Louise, Soul Flyte Staff

Newest Instructor: Leigh LaBrake!

We are beyond excited to welcome the lovely Leigh LaBrake into our teaching community. She will be starting to teach in March, so please look for her name and check out her classes soon! To start, she'll be teaching Soul Flow on Wednesday's at 4pm and Fundamentals on Sunday's at 4pm. Check out our interview with her below:

 How did you get into AG yoga and fitness:

I had seen other people trying it, and when I learned there was a place in Nyack, Soul Flyte, I had to try it. I went just hoping to have fun, but ended up finding that it helped my chronic back pain. I left with my back feeling absolutely wonderful. Knowing that I had a blast and that it was having such a positive effect, I kept trying out different classes at Soul Flyte. I was hooked!

What’s your background?

I grew up playing softball, field hockey, and skiing/snowboarding. While in grad school for Art Education, I found roller derby and shortly after CrossFit. I am a high school art teacher, a certified Level 1 and CrossFit Kids trainer, a 200 Hour RYT and now an AntiGravity trained instructor! I love staying active and finding new ways to keep my body moving.

 Why AntiGravity®?

I love practicing inversions, but having the zero compression that AntiGravity provides allows my spine to really decompress. I love the feeling of flying and being suspended in the air. The variety of ways to use the hammock, the poses, and the benefits you receive from adding an AntiGravity practice has been incredible for my body and my peace of mind.

 Any comments to your future students?

Trust yourself and the hammock and have the courage to try something new, because you will more often than not surprise yourself. Come "hang" out!

Meditate, Just Do It

To me, meditation is my quiet time. Once I made the commitment to sit every single day, a shift was made in my mind and body. We’re all busy, we all have hectic schedules – kids, work, school, family, pets, babies and the list continues on. Even though those things do exist, it doesn’t give you the excuse not to take 15 minutes for yourself every single day to breathe, to listen and to feel. You will need to be flexible with your practice, maybe it isn’t the same routine every single day because circumstances do come up, but there’s always 15 minutes in another part of your day. To quiet and focus your mind is to create peace inside but also outside. It effects every part of your day with yourself and others, just by sitting for a few minutes. Even if your mind is wandering the whole time, at least you sat. The more you practice, the easier it will be for your mind to get quieter.

There are all different types of meditation practices – this Sunday we have Anna Antaneis coming to offer guided meditation. She’s absolutely fabulous at what she does and I know you’ll learn a ton about how you can practice this at home. I highly suggest that you come to class on Sunday at 4pm. You can signup HERE.

Meditation has made a huge impact in my life and I know it can effect yours too. Let this be your chance to make a positive change.

“Meditation is not a way of making your mind quiet. It is a way of entering into the quiet that is already there, buried under the 50,000 thoughts the average person thinks every day.” – Deepak Chopra

Student Spotlight: Jenni Salomon

This month our student spotlight of the month is Jenni Salomon. Jenni has been coming to the studio since the beginning of October. The strength, confidence and excitement she shares each time she shows up to class is just the best. When she nails a pose, she's excited and always ready for more. We interviewed her below, check it out: 

How did you find out about Soul Flyte?
The Facebook. 

What’s something you can't live without? 
My calendar, not on my phone - its old school.  I'd probably get fired and not have any friends if I couldn't keep track of my schedule. 

What brought you to try your first class at SF? 
My car :)

What’s your favorite time of day?
Evening. 

Do you have a favorite pose at SF?
Handstands! 

What’s the best meal you've eaten? 
The cheese plate at The Hop in Beacon, NY. Super local cheeses and Matt, (the chef) makes this mustard seed "caviar" that is served with it and it’s off the hook. 

Favorite thing about coming to Soul Flyte?
I feel so strong! (And my Instagram has become way more interesting too!) 

Would you recommend it to others? 
I have!!

Favorite/best place you've traveled to: 
Africa

What's your favorite book? Movie?
The Little Prince.  Its a children's book. 
Cool Runnings - the Disney movie about the Jamaican bobsled team. 

What's the craziest thing you've ever done? 
Delivered someone else's baby.  Seriously, it’s an insane and amazing experience.  

Anything else you want to share?
This place and its people are awesome and I’m constantly excited and grateful to be a part of it!

Soul Flyte is Hiring!

So you want to be an instructor at Soul Flyte? Now’s the chance! We’re looking for passionate, positive, service-oriented, hard-working, enthusiastic, caring and soulful yoga and fitness enthusiasts. It’s a plus if you’re already certified to teach yoga, dance, or other fitness classes.

Soul Flyte is revolutionizing Nyack by bringing AntiGravity yoga and fitness to town, connecting the mind, body and soul. If you’ve been to our classes you already know how fantastic you feel during and afterwards. We’re a unique, boutique studio with A LOT of soul and we’re growing quickly. Instructors are crucial to our vibe and we NEED more powerful and motivating leaders to join our team. 

We can’t wait to hear from you! Please email us with your resume and a blurb explaining a bit about you and why you’re interested in teaching AntiGravity® yoga and fitness: shira@soulflyte.com

#Juicingfor30

Hi Folks! We're happy to announce that here at Soul Flyte we’re teaming up with our local massage therapist crew: Nenriki Therapy to commit to a 30-day juice challenge and we want YOU to join us! What does that mean? Well, We know that it’s been a tough holiday season with drinking, eating, sugar, dessert, ETC. because we’re right there with ya. We’ve collectively decided that to get back on our health bandwagon we need to make a commitment – hence our 30-day juice challenge: #juicingfor30

What is it? Every day starting on January 1st-January 31st we’re committing to drinking one fresh pressed juice every single day for 30 days. That means you can buy a juice at your local health food store or juice bar or you can make it at home using a juicer, either way works for us.

This isn’t a juice fast or diet, it’s simply adding in the good stuff into your already healthy diet! What’s a healthy diet, oh please….. you know what’s healthy and what isn’t… not too many carbs, minimize your sugar intake and eat your colors. If everything on your plate is brownish or white in color then you’ve got to start eating more colorfully. Be creative. If you’re eating a bagel for breakfast then drink a fresh juice to wash it down.

Here’s what doesn’t count as juice for this challenge. If it comes in a bottle like apple juice, orange juice, Odwalla juice, Naked juice, etc. – that doesn’t count! We’re talking real vegetables that you watch go into the juicer. Here are some of our favorite juices:

Carrot, beet

Kale, romaine, celery, cucumber, lemon, ginger, green apple

Carrot, apple, ginger

Spinach, cucumber, kale, celery, carrot, lemon

Cucumber, apple

***This challenge is about experimenting with recipes. If we tell you exact numbers it won’t come out right because every vegetable is a different size! Play with it until it tastes good to you.

You can make any juice work - use what you have on hand or buy what you like.  Who’s with us? Let’s commit to feeling our best selves starting January 1st. We’re in, are you? If so, then all you have to do is take a photo of your juice everyday and post it to your social media platform with #juicingfor30

Cheers to YOUR health.

Love,

The Soul Flyte and Nenriki Therapy Teams