Kinespirit Gyrotonic and Pilates Studios

Kinespirit is a unique group of wellness studios committed to guiding you to personal fitness goals through the practice of Gyrotonic exercise, Pilates, and Yoga

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Kinespirit Teacher Spotlight: Witches of Eastwick, or rather Riverside: Martha, Kierstin, and Michelle--the Detroit-Wayne State-triad

Hi Ladies!  Tell us a little about your lives in Michigan and how you all ended up in New York.

Michelle: I grew up in Michigan dancing my whole life and eventually made my way to Wayne State to major in Dance.  New York is the hub of the dance world, and after visiting here a few times I was totally in love! I knew I had to move here.

Martha: I was born and raised in Michigan and started dancing when I was 6 years old. I was so passionate about it that I decided to go to school for it. I ended up at Wayne State because the scholarships were unreal, and I always loved Detroit. After school, NYC was basically the only place you could end up. There or Chicago, but Chicago was too close to home. And who doesn't want to live in New York?

Kierstin: I was born and raised in a very small, rural town. My family is very involved in the theatre and I knew from a young age that the arts were definitely going to play a huge role in my career. After deciding I wanted to major in dance, I knew that I didn't want to leave the state. Wayne State was recommended to me by the artistic director of the youth ballet company I was in. After auditioning and getting quite a bit of scholarship money from them, I decided that's where I was going to go. Although the whole town of Marshall was very apprehensive in letting me go to school in Detroit. I craved diversity and opportunity and it was my decision after all ;) and it acted as a great stepping stone for my move to NY! 

And how did Kinespirit end up with all three of you at the same time?!  Did you know each other before moving to the city?

Michelle: Martha was the first. She paved the way!  A few years later Kierstin and I graduated together (Wayne State, same school as Martha) and decided to figure out this New York thing together! About a month after our move Martha reached out to me that Kinespirit was looking for Pilates teachers (when we first moved I was working in Aeropostale Times Square, yikes!).  Only a few months later I mentioned to Emily and Aubrey that my roommate Kierstin was looking for more Pilates hours and finally our troublesome trio was complete!

Martha: We knew each other before moving to NYC. I'm a couple years older so I was a senior when Kierstin was a freshman. To this day I still think Michelle was in school the same time as me but she transferred in after my senior year. I discovered Kinespirit through my STOTT training. I had no idea Chantal was looking for instructors until one of my course Instructor Trainers (I guess) suggested me to Chantal. Chantal sent me an email and I was auditioning later that week. Michelle explains the rest perfectly.

Kierstin: We all met in college. Martha, being the eldest, started teaching here first. Once Michelle and I moved here, Martha got Michelle the job and then once I started looking for teaching jobs, Michelle referred me!

Tell us a little about your training.  You all did the same Stott program in Michigan, yes?

Michelle: Yes all Stott trained.  We had a great mentor/teacher at Wayne State (shout out to Eva Powers!) and she made us all Pilates addicts.  One of the first times I even met Martha was when she was back in Michigan briefly and using the Wayne State dancers to help complete her practice hours. She gave me and Kierstin some tips about the city and got us even more excited for the move.

Martha: We're all STOTT trained. One of our professors, Eva Powers, basically told us we had to get certified. Good advice in hindsight. We've all arrived at our certifications in different ways, mine took quite a while. I did my initial mat and reformer training in Michigan, and my Cadillac, Chair and Barrels course in NYC.

Kierstin: Yes, thanks to our teacher and mentor, Eva Powers. It was nice being trained at school because we got all of our practice hours in on the underclassmen. Since they were dancers, not many obstacles were thrown at us, so it was definitely a transition for me when I began teaching non-dancers.

Even though you all had the same initial training, you still have pretty distinct teaching styles.  Do you have any insight as to why?

Michelle: I think we have pretty distinct personalities which is reflected in that teaching style.  Kierstin is sweet and energetic, Martha is smart and sassy, and I'm...me?

Martha: Like Michelle points out, our personalities are all very different which makes our teaching styles different. We can all describe it different ways but Kierstin is the drill sergeant, Michelle is matter of fact, "you're doing it and you're doing it now," and as Beth Walman has told me, I'm the torturous dominatrix teacher. Haha!

Kierstin: I think our personalities come into play with this one as well as our own personal fitness goals and what we like most to get out of a Pilates session.

What is your favorite aspect of teaching and why?

Michelle: I like getting to know clients.  It's wonderful to impart my knowledge of Pilates and give myself to them each hour.  It's equally fascinating to meet so many different people and learn about their lives, their past and their bodies.  New York is not shy of variety and this gives me endless opportunities to challenge myself as an instructor and to learn more in order to grow.

Martha: I love seeing the "ah-ha" moment in clients. It's something we talk about in dance a lot, but you see it everywhere. That moment where something clicks in your brain and it reflects in your body, that is brilliance. And it really reflects what pilates is all about, and what we often forget, the Mind-Body connection.

Kierstin: I love connecting with clients, learning their story and then seeing them achieve their goals. When they start to notice the benefits of Pilates transforming their bodies, they light up, which ultimately makes me one happy camper :)

What are your lives like outside of Kinespirit and teaching Pilates?  Any overlap there, as well?

Michelle: Kierstin and I share a bedroom so you could say our lives overlap... We're all performers and the dance world is very small so there's a lot of crossover in our lives.  Martha produced a show in the fall that I choreographed in and Kierstin performed in.  For Martha's improv showing at UCB Kierstin and I (and Sofia!) went out to support her. New York is tough and the dance world is tough, so we do our best to find time in the craziness to give each other love and support. That being said we don't get to see each other NEARLY as often as we like, so when we do it's usually non-stop chatter (and usually squeals of excitement from Kierstin).

Martha: It's funny because I kind of led the way in terms of Wayne State alum moving to NYC. Some of my old roommates are here and other people that were great friends in college, and yet, I never really went to school with Kierstin and Michelle, and I see them more than anyone else! They both danced in a show I produced this past fall (Spark Performance Forum - shameless plug - check it out on fb), we see each other at auditions, pass along info on auditions, and try to support each other as much as possible and hang out whenever we can!

Kierstin: Ha! Michelle and I are as overlapped as you could possibly be... We sleep in the same room and share basically everything. Thank god I love her. I love Martha too, but don't get to see her nearly as much as I'd like to!

Do you have any other thoughts you would like to leave us with?

Michelle: In the words of the lovely Ava "Peace, love and narrowing (and one hundreds and downward dogs and massage tables...)"

Martha: #waynestatemafia #DETROIT

Kierstin:  Insert Ava's quote here. I like it a lot ;)

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Kinespirit's Move of the Month: The Columbian Sling Shot

with Kierstin 

Stand to the left side of the machine with your right knee on the upper right corner of the carriage with your toes tucked under, arms by your side.

  Lift your knee off the carriage so that the back leg is straight (back leg never bends!) and tilt your body forward so that your shoulders are in front of your hips (your body is now on an angle and it stays this way throughout the whole exercise).

  Bend your left knee. As you lunge back, arms reach forward by your ears. Make sure your left knee goes directly over your right ankle. If it goes over your toes, then shift your pelvis back further in the lunge.

As you lengthen your front knee, your arms come back by your hips to return to your beginning position.  Repeat on the opposite side.

This exercise is more effective the slower it's done.

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Kinespirit Bodyworker: Jen Furst

Hi Jen!  We're super-excited that you are on our team as a Bodyworker at Kinespirit!

Tell us a little about yourself.  What puzzle pieces fell together to bring you to Bodywork.

When I was in college studying music, I developed a hand injury (I guess from playing the piano so incorrectly!)...  When I went to see the doctors all they would say was, “Take some advil, it's tendinitis."  So it went on for 7 years!  One year, somebody gave me a gift certificate for a massage for my birthday--and when I told the massage therapist about my hand, she worked on my arm.  Lo and behold, after a few sessions, the 7 year injury had mostly gone away. I really wanted to know how she did that.  It took several years for me to eventually end up in massage school--but I did go and here I am.  I am sure that is why my own specialty has to do with injuries and specific deep work!

Give us a little background about massage in general.  Many people believe that it's something you as a gift to yourself to make you feel better, but it's more than that right? 

Ah yes, that is an age-old question!  Is massage more than a luxury?  My answer is an emphatic yes.  Massage is actually an adjunct medical practice that has been hanging around for thousands of years.  It began in China (or so they say--I really think touch is a natural thing to do with an injury and probably is a human instinct), and was brought to the West via a Swedish doctor (hence "Swedish" massage).  There are a ton of different techniques, but all of them center around treatment of the soft tissue via manipulation.  Aside from feeling good, the benefits include: increased circulation to damaged areas, flushing of lymphatic circulation, separation of adhered tissue, scar mobilization, increasing range of motion and joint function.  That list really goes on and on to include physical, mental, emotional benefits.  One thing I really like to remind people is that there is no such thing as a doctor for the soft tissue--you generally get referred to the orthopedist or the physical therapist.  But massage is also there, and we spend all of our days working in the soft tissue that comprises most of the body!!

  How do you feel like massage can complement an active lifestyle?  

Massage has a million benefits--if you are an active person, even if you do not get injured, one of the best things you can do for your training is to get your soft tissue worked on.  By its nature, exercise is contractile: that is to say, you build muscle by tearing it and regrowing it via repetitive contraction.  That's why you get so sore! Massage helps combat the natural soreness and tightness that activity brings by lengthening the tissues, increasing the circulation and increasing range of motion.  One of the best and most subtle things that massage can help do is teach you an awareness of your body, its patterns of tension and release and help you gain more specific control of the body in general.  This is beyond useful because you ARE your body and the more it knows, the better you perform.  

  What types of bodywork are you trained in and what techniques do you bring to the table?

My work is primarily focused around specific, deep tissue Swedish massage.  I take really special care to talk to my clients at the beginning of each session to see where they are that day and design a treatment that meets their needs, taking into account any pains/problems, general health issues, mood that day, general life issues, and so on.  I think most of the treatment depends on listening carefully and assessing what techniques will work at a specific time.  If you hammer away at deep tissue 100% all the time, that really doesn't benefit the body as much as titrating it to the specific concern.  I genuinely think this sets me apart as a therapist and I try to meet each client where they are and without a preconceived notion of "what will work." 

  You also have many talents outside of Bodywork, including performing professionally as an opera singer.  Tell us about your latest performance.

Ha, yes!  I am what we call in the opera world a "lyric soprano."  I just performed the role of Gilda in Rigoletto at the Pierce Opera House outside of Pittsburgh--it was fantastic!  I am also about to perform the role of Giulietta in Tales of Hoffmann at Symphony Space later this month, so it's been a good season for me operatically speaking.  I have been singing since I was a child and wanted to be a professional ever since I can remember.  I majored in Voice Performance in college and even now still study with a private teacher every week--like anything, you have to always be training your body to do what you want it to do.  I want to sing opera, so I practice most days and study with my teacher.  

Do you feel any sort of connection between your work as a singer and as a bodyworker?

Absolutely--in both fields of discipline you learn an awareness of the body and what it can do!  And insofar as music is the art associated with the sense of hearing, I think that massage is the art form associated with our sense of touch.  Both are about giving an experience to the audience that is visceral, meaningful, powerful and physical.  I try to bring musical ideas like phrasing, rhythm and breath into my massage work...and massage ideas like positioning, proprioception, and moving from the core into the singing.  I wanted to weave these parts of my life together and I think I manage that day by day--it's a work in progress, always.

  Are there anything last thoughts that you would like to leave us with?

One of the most important things to me as a massage practitioner is to give my clients what we call "unconditional positive regard."  We are all human animals and there is nothing "wrong" with your body as it is right now.  I wish for every single client to leave my treatment feeling like they were given a positive experience of their own body that they can take and incorporate into their lives.  I know that receiving massage helped me tremendously with self-image and anxiety and other kinds of mind-body issues.  I wish for people to know that massage isn't some hippie-dippy feel-good thing (not that there's anything wrong with that, honestly, because that's fun too)--but really is a powerful and empowering practice.  

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Kinespirit Move of the Month

Mermaid on the short box: Side-bend variation

withPhilippa

BEGIN : Sitting on top of the box with legs in external rotation and the foot closest to foot bar hooked in the foot strap. Other knee is bent as if sitting cross-legged on top of the box.  With a neutral pelvis, and arms stretched out to the sides try to feel as much length in the torso as possible and enjoy the height and spacial awareness that the box provides the body in this position. 

  1.) INHALE : Lean away from the foot bar feeling that no length has been lost in both sides of the torso.  Hip will have to rotate to keep the foot in the strap and will allow the body to really lever out through space energetically pulling away from the foot bar.

  2.)  EXHALE : Side-bend into the 'mermaid stretch' continually pulling the body into a stretch through space towards the floor, between the reformer tracks. Top arm stretches overhead while bottom arm tucks under the knee in front of the body.

  3.)  INHALE : Return the body to the starting seated position, planting the sitz bone closest to the foot bar back on the box by rotating the leg externally.

  4.) EXHALE : Side-bend towards the foot bar with the top arm overhead and bottom arm hugged low to the torso.

5.) INHALE : Right the torso back to vertical in the same seated start position.

6.) EXHALE : Regroup before beginning again.

Repeat 3-5x each side.

  I love this exercise because it gives the body the luxuriously deep stretch that it craves after we spend most our day in a sagittal plane of motion (think horse with blinders).  It also gives the body a great challenge to the obliques and spinal stabilizers. Challenge yourself to find a strong counter tension between head and tail during the movement without allowing any twisting or flexing in the torso.  It feels more difficult at first, but you will actually feel more stretch in the extremities as well as more strength in your core.  Enjoy!

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Kinespirit Pilates Teacher Spotlight: Holly Hilt

Hi Holly!  You are originally from Ohio!  What brought you to NYC and how long have you been here?

I moved to NYC right after I graduated from Mount Holyoke College up in Massachusetts.  To be exact it was July 8th, 2002 just over 11 years ago.  (WOW where has the time gone!!!)  If people remember correctly 2002 was another year economic decline and there were not that many jobs for new graduates.  In order to get into the industry I wanted, I needed to be in the city at a moment’s notice for an interview.  I talked my parents into letting me move here with no job.  Actually, I talked my father into it and he talked my mom into it J

How were you first introduced to Pilates and how long have you been teaching? 

I was first introduced to Pilates in the dance department at MHC.  I took a January term seminar and remember it well.  An instructor from NYC, came up and taught a three hour class each day Monday-Wednesday. A friend of mine and I both signed and were super excited to learn something new that could help us with our dance and overall strength.  The morning after our first class neither of us could get out of bed.  It hurt to walk a few doors down the hall just to take a shower.  Our whole bodies ached from head to toe! We were both like, OMG what have we gotten ourselves into.  Today we are both Pilates instructors J.  I have been teaching for over 6 years, but doing Pilates for going on 15 years.  My first private instructor in NYC was the one that urged me to get certified.

You've used Pilates as a way to rehabilitate injuries.  How have you found it helpful?

Pilates was a godsend when I tore my right rotator cuff a month before heading back to start my sophomore year of college.  During the eight months it took to rehab my shoulder (basically rebuilding the muscle itself without surgery), Pilates helped me keep in shape.  Though I had major difficulty with my shoulder and back, I was still able to do many other exercises.  I work with many clients that have injuries and have come to see them truly understand their bodies more while rehabilitating their injury through Pilates.

Before you started your Pilates career, you used to work down in the Financial District, correct?  What inspired you to make the switch and what changes have you seen in your life because of it?

My past firms were all based in midtown.  After 9/11 many financial firms made the move to midtown.  Changing industries was basically a lifestyle change for me.  There were many months I spent more time in a hotel bed than my own.  I was tired of the travel and really tired of the atmosphere in which I worked.  I learned a lot, met many great people, but was ready to move on.  Pilates was my stress outlet.  I was already working with clients, so the change really was a no brainer for me.  Teaching Pilates has been very rewarding for me.  It is awesome to see clients overcome obstacles and challenges, whether it is new or chronic injuries, illnesses, surgeries or working through pregnancies and coming back afterwards.

In addition to teaching, you are also training for the NYC marathon this year!  How long and what kind of training do you undertake to make it through 26.2 miles?

Yes, that is correct.  I am super excited!  I was supposed to run NYC last year, but of course that did not happen for reasons everyone knows.  Due to an injury from training last year, I chose to work with a private coach and do a 20-week training program.  In the past, I have completed 16-week programs.  My program consists of four days of running, one day of cross training, one day strength training and one day of rest.  It is a lot of work, however it is a wonderful challenge with an awesome rewarding finish at the end.

This isn't you first marathon either.  How man others have you raced?

I have run two other marathons.  My first was Marine Corps Marathon 2011 down in Washington DC.  My little brother, who at the time was an officer in the USCG, was supposed to run it.  Unfortunately, he fell ill to a heart virus.  He really wanted me to have his bib and run it.  ING NYC 2012 was supposed to be my first marathon.  However, after weeks of debating if I can do this I transferred his bib to my name. I ran it in honor of him.  Not only was it an emotional marathon because it was my first, my little brother, who at the time had yet to recover from his heart condition, was there to see me in the first few miles and again at mile 25.5.

My second marathon was this past January, since I was not able to run NYC in November I signed up to run the Miami Marathon.  After battling a knee injury during NYC training, I took a few weeks off and restarted training for Miami.  Let’s just say training in 20 degree weather and running in 80+ is not the most optimal running conditions.  But, I finished and have lots of entertaining stories from that day.  And oh yes, I am doing it again this year…….a glutten for punishment J

How do you like to spend your time outside of all your training?  What sort of hobbies do you have?

Hmmm…..lets see considering my days usually consist of teaching, running and taking Lucy to the dog run!  Oh yea, and sometimes seeing that person I married called my husband J  I really do love to read and have since I was little.  I read books as much as I can.  Traveling is another big thing that I love to do.  My husband and I love to explore new places all the time.

I know you love to talk about Lucy, so go ahead and tell us about your cute little pup :)

Oh yes, I do love to talk about my sweet little nutcase Lucy. Lucy is our two year old Vizlsa.  For those of you that do not know what a Vizsla is, picture a smaller Weimaraner but rust colored, highly energetic and are nick-named Velcro dogs (I never go to the bathroom alone anymore!).  Lucy has crazy amounts of energy.  If I could bottle it up and sell it I would be quite wealthy!  My daily goal is to find her off button, which trust me can be challenging.  She usually runs for 1-1.5hrs a day, more if I have the time and energy.  We wanted a dog that could keep up with our busy and active life style.  Well, we found one but there are days I think she surpasses our activity level!  She is super sweet and LOVES everybody, though at times I wish she was a bit more selective!  Her tail rarely stops wagging.  Her whole back section, legs including, move when she wags and at times almost bends in half!  We call her Miss wiggle butt J

Let's end with one little known fun fact!

Oh dear let me see…….one of my favorite snacks is pretzels and cream cheese.  Got to love the sweet and salty flavor!

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Kinespirit Client Spotlight: Keith Otten

  Hi Keith!  We're so excited to get to know you and your experience with Gyrotonic© a little more.

First of all, how long have you been living in NYC and what brought you here?

I came here after college (Syracuse) in ’84. It seemed, in addition to being the cultural capital of the world, to be a good place to pursue a music career – plus, I had no intention of going back to Ohio…!

I discovered (with some help from Google) that you are a guitar player and that you even have some solo CDs of your own.  This is awesome!  Tell us a little about your music career...  how you got started and where you are planning on going.

I’ve played guitar, fronted bands and played solo for as long as I’ve been in NYC. I’ve self-produced 3 solo discs and am working (slowly!) on a 4th.  I currently play guitar in Ninth House (termed “cemetery and western” by bandleader Mark Sinnis) and do occasional solo acoustic shows. My closest “brush with fame” was probably my stint in Feed, started by former members of the Psychedelic Furs.  I tried for many years to make music my career – while that has not been a realistic possibility for quite some time, I am still driven to write and play.

(more info at www.keithotten.com)

Is music something you do full time, or do you have another job?

That’s a very lovely thought, but no…. I manage data warehousing and data integration for Condé Nast, where I’ve been for 20+ years.

Let's get to know some more about your experience with Gyrotonic at Kinespirit.  How long have you been coming to Kinespirit and what originally brought you here?

That’s easy – I followed Uli here!! I was incredibly fortunate to have encountered her at another studio, and when she came full time to Kinespirit in 2007 I was more than happy to follow.

Gyrotonic can be a difficult thing to describe... how would you put it into words if you were describing it to a friend?

Great question! I usually refer to it as “Pilates except not as linear” or something similar. Since this typically leaves people with no clue what I’m talking about, I could definitely use a better description!

Have you ever ventured into the Pilates studio at Madison Park, or are you strictly a Gyrotonic guy? 

I initially started with Pilates at the encouragement of my chiropractor, maybe 8 years ago. It was Uli who convinced me to try Gyrotonic, and as I recall it took her quite a while! Now I don’t think I would trade a Gyro session for anything else, though I might try Pilates again if the week had 8 days….

You have recently had an injury and are using Gyrotonic as a way to rehabilitate.  Correct? In what ways has Gyrotonic helped you recover?

I did have knee surgery in the spring and Gyrotonic is definitely helping me recover. But more importantly, I have significant back issues and Gyrotonic has helped me immeasurably. It’s more of an ongoing process than a rehabilitation, but I can honestly say my life is significantly better for having found Gyro.

What are your hobbies outside of music and Gyrotonic?

My wife and I are lucky enough to have a little place in Montauk, and in the last couple of years have gotten completely addicted to paddle-boarding. It’s great fun and great exercise!

Tell us one interesting fact about yourself! : )

How about a silly factoid? Before my last move, every apartment I’ve lived in (I count 8) has been on the top floor. All but one was a walk-up, and 3 of them were on the 6th floor. If anyone has wondered why I take the elevator to the 5th floor at Kinespirit, now you know….!

Any last thoughts you would like to leave us with.

I am very, very happy to be at Kinespirit – it is a wonderfully open and welcoming place. I am forever indebted to Uli for introducing me to Gyro in the first place, for introducing me to Kinespirit, and for years of diligent, patient and amazing work. My Gyro may not be pretty now, but you should have seen me before!!!

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Kinespirit Teacher Spotlight on Efe!

  First of all, I hear your hometown is Lagos, Nigeria.  Tell us a little about that.  How did you end up in NYC, and how long have you been here?

 Yes, I was born in Lagos, Nigeria.  Lagos is a big city in Nigeria which is in West Africa. My parents were diplomats for the Nigerian Embassy, so we traveled a lot. I guess you can say we were like army brats. I ended up in New York because I wanted to be an artist and go to college some day and this seemed to be a good option. I have been here too long, over 8 years.. Lol. Let’s just say I am a New Yorker.

How were you first introduced to GYROTONIC® and what has your journey with the technique been like?  What have you gained from making Gyrotonic a part of your life?

I was introduced to Gyrotonic by AMT Billy Macagnone. I use to work as a waiter at his father's restaurant, and he asked me if I was a mover. I told him I danced contemporary modern, and he told me to come try a gyrotonic class. That was it.

Journeying in Gyrotonic has been amazing, like with everything in life it is a process. For me a joyful process at best because I love what I do. I love to help people achieve their goals as well as heal bodies. I love moving my body and seeing it transform before my very eyes. It makes me a believer of the work and the creative process.

I have gained a deeper appreciation and understanding of the human body. I have gained gratitude for all the different forms of exercise that help individuals learn their bodies.

How long have you been teaching, and what is one of your most memorable moments of teaching?

I have been teaching just about 3 years but I have been doing the work longer. My most memorable moment was when I taught this lady who broke down crying half way into the session saying she had never felt her body be so opened before. She said she felt so free and she did not know she could be that way. She really enjoyed the session and I enjoyed working with her

I see that you have also completed the Application for Dancers.  Does this mean you are a dancer yourself?  If so, give us a little insight into Efe, the dancer, and who you work with in the city!

Yes I have completed that course and would probably do it again. Yes I am a dancer. I trained at the New School University, Westchester Community College, and the Alvin Ailey Independent Program. I have danced with a few modern dance companies in the city and I have stayed with Michael Mao Dance Company the longest. I still work with him from time to time, but as of now I am trying to explore different things for myself as an artist.

Are there any other certifications that you have that we might not know about?

For this year, I have Jumping Stretch Board Certification, Leg Extension Unit Certification, Applications for Dancers Certification, Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis Level 1 Certification.  I continue to study under Erika Hasan when she is in town and under Hilary Cartwright, who teaches Yoga for Dancers. I also took a workshop with Dr. Gotz Lehle on craniomanibular, scoliosis and fascia tissue.

And you're married!  Congratulations!  Have you been married long and does your husband do Gyrotonic as well?

Thank you, July 2 will make one year of our marriage. I do some Gyrokinesis and Bodywork with my husband at home. He would like to do more Gyrotonic but as a Vegan raw food chef, it’s kind of hard for him to have a lot of flexible time.

Tell us about what you like to do in your spare time.

I like to spend my spare time reading, practicing yoga, biking and dancin

And what's one fun fact that we may not know!

I love to laugh. When I was a child I got in a lot of trouble because I would laugh when I wasn’t supposed to. I am more likely to giggle when I am not supposed t)

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Kinespirit Client Spotlight: Barbara Rellstab

    Hi Barbara! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in New York? I was born and raised in Zurich, Switzerland and have been living in the City for the past 16 years.

  How long have you been coming to Kinespirit? Hm, let me think... I have known about Kinespirit for evvvver. I briefly taught Gyrotonic® here as an independent teacher maybe 6 years ago.  Only recently have I made Kinespirit my Gyro heaven again.

  What was your first experience with Gyrotonic? How did you come to fall in love with it?

I was new in the City and wanted to take a Yoga class that a friend of mine was teaching at the Movement Salon.  Immediately, I noticed the medieval-looking machines in the back of the studio and wanted to try it right then and there. From the very first moment I sat on that Pulley Tower, I knew that Gyro was the answer to all my movement questions and cravings. I had studied Yoga, Feldenkrais, various dance techniques and Pilates before (I was also a swimmer in younger years...) Gyrotonic offered the perfect combination of it all, and I knew right away that I had found a lifelong companion.  Gyro has helped me stay healthy (and sane....) during a physically demanding 2.5yr run as Tytania at the "Donkey Show," has supported me to stay soft and supple in sad times, and keeps me grounded now as I work with small children every day.

  How many days per week do you practice Gyro?

I am only able to come once or twice a week to the studio (that's what motherhood and owning your own business does to you...), but I do about 30 minutes of scrubbing and Gyrokinesis® in the morning when I wake up. Cannot seem to sit still for Meditation. ;-).

  You have a few certifications in Gyrotonic, correct? What has your training process been like? Yes, I am a certified Gyrotonic teacher and have taken the Gyrokinesis teacher training, but unfortunately never got certified. The process of the teacher training in both cases was very intense. I hit various walls (mind-related, of course) and had to move through either a small injury or illness to work through it. I wish I had more time to dedicate to intense training with one of the blessed Master Trainers. Right now I hover at the surface. But that alone is wonderful as it keeps me healthy and balanced.

  How does Gyrotonic fit into your daily life? How do you see it carry over into your world once you leave Kinespirit? Spiraling is part of my life and when I get to practice, I feel that I move through my days with a lovely rhythm that comes from within. Gyrotonic will always be a part of my life and I hope I will always live close to a studio so that I can be a part of the community.

  Do any of your friends do Gyrotonic?

Interestingly, no. I recommend it to my friends all the time, but it is a private thing for me to do. When I was teaching full time, many of the teachers were my friends.

  You own a school, correct? Tell us about it!

I own a German Immersion Day Care, and a German Language program for children between the ages of 6 months and 9 years.  It is this interesting combination of the few past lives that I have lead back home and here in the City: Singing, acting, teaching and doing business.  It also allows me to be around my son when he is not in Pre-K, which very important to me as a single mom.

  Also, tell us about your son... Any Gyro for him in the near future? :) Oliver is a wonderful 4-year old who loves to be on this planet. From the moment he was born, I could not stop looking at his movements as they resembled so much of what we are trying to re-learn in Gyrokinesis! He definitely is a mover, especially daring on his bike and scooter. He watches me doing Gyrokinesis in the morning and tells me what I am doing wrong. And the funny part is that I get upset at him!  Who will collaborate with me in the development of Children's Gyro?

  What other activities do you enjoy? I love to go Samba and Salsa dancing. Not superbly accomplished in either, but the music moves me deeply. And my friends are very important to me too. That network that inspires and helps through the good and not so good times.  I could not do it all without them!

  Tell us something fun about yourself!

Oh, boy, is this a dating website questionnaire? I am so looking forward to spending a good part of the summer on Fire Island where we share a house with another family. Come visit!

[kinespirit-blog]

Kinespirit Teacher Spotlight: Frances Baca

Hi Frances!!! Hi!!

  How long have you worked for Kinespirit?  I've been working at Kinespirit for two and a half years, but I was a client first for about two years.  Shout out to ULI! 

  Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in NYC? I am originally from Berkeley, California. <3I moved to New York the day after graduating from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, eight years ago. I've been told I'm officially a New Yorker now; I'll always be a Cali girl at heart.

  You are both a Pilates teacher and a Gyrotonic® teacher. Tell us your journey. Which came first and how did you end up becoming a teacher of both?

I had taken Pilates Mat classes during the summer growing up as a part of my dance training. Fitness in general has always been a pastime of mine. I took ballet, karate and gymnastics, plus I played school team sports and was a competitive swimmer. I was a bit of an insomniac as a kid so if I couldn't sleep I would do pushups, sit-ups and rearrange all the solid wood furniture in my room until I got tired and then would climb back into bed.  

  Pilates was offered every semester at UArts and eventually I took it because I was (am) obsessed with this idea of a "dancers" body. Pilates it is widely accepted as a means to create and maintain that physique. My teacher was a student of Romana's, whom I quote for calling out during the most painful moments, "Isn't that delicious!" God I hated that... But she's right, that moment of pain that will result in achieving that toned body you've always wanted really is "delicious." 

  My first GYROKINESIS® experience was also in college. My modern teacher, Jennifer Binford, I believe was getting certified and on occasion would teach Gyro instead of Graham technique. I really liked it, but I had no clue what it could really do for me. I didn't see it as a training method, just something nice that you do every now and again. After I moved to the city my friend, who was getting certified, convinced my mom that I should do the training, but I didn't see how I could make a living teaching it. I started working at David Barton Gym (where I met my husband, see below) as a front desk and scheduler. Part of the benefit for me was free training sessions. I started thinking about a Pilates certification; about a year later I had finished my courses and have been teaching ever since. (Another shout out to Uli, whom taught some of the Pilates courses I took!)

  A few times I was led through a GYROTONIC workout by a co-worker. I didn't really know what I was doing, but I liked it. I had to keep Gyro on the back burner while I focused on being the best Pilates instructor I could be, but always knew I wanted to try it again. I did some researching and came across Kinespirit, recognized some friendly faces, and thought the "Intro pack" was too good to pass up. It was love at first wave; I began to take privates weekly. Kinespirit and Gyrotonic came to represent something special that I did, somewhere special, that was just about me. I was very reluctant to change that. It took two years but eventually Jen Daly and Uli convinced me to go through the training and later join the K'Spirit team. I went through the Gyrotonic training first, Gyrokinesis was soon to follow. I have no regrets, except I should have listened to my mom all those years ago.

  Is it easy to flip back and forth between teaching both modalities? Most of the time it's fine for me to flip back and forth, but if I'm tired... that’s another story. (Just kidding!) No, the biggest road block for me is if someone wants me to decide whether they should do Pilates or Gyro. (***Warning!! cheese-ball moment: only you can decide what's best for you! And HONESTLY, that is the one direction that I'm ALWAYS going to guide towards ;-)

  What has your process been like as a teacher? What is the greatest lesson you have learned from your career so far? I never thought I would teach. I don't really consider myself someone with either the patience or knowledge to be successful teaching. But I love to move and explore the human body's capabilities, and sharing that with my clients is amazing. When someone, after numerous sessions, "all of a sudden" is strong enough or coordinated enough to do something they couldn't before, I get to share in the excitement. I have also enjoyed getting to know people from all over the world, with various types of jobs, lifestyles and personalities. Overall I've learned to let go of some of the extremely high expectations I have for myself, and that the formula to achieving anything is simple: 1) you have to really want it, but allow for changes along the way. 2) Enjoy the process; be where you are today and squash frustration by celebrating all the little milestones along the way. Eventually you'll  laugh about those moments. 3)Take a chance, the worst thing that can happen is that it doesn't work. Just don't put all your eggs in that basket. 4) Probably the most important: You need your support system. People whom are a positive influence in your life. Who believe in you, regardless of your goals want to you to be happy. All the other stuff will fall into place.

  You just got married! How is married life? Jose is in the fitness industry as well, correct? What does he do exactly? We just celebrated our second anniversary! It is wonderful. I am so humbled by José's presence in my life, and I feel fortunate to find such a beautiful soul to share my life with. 

  We met at the gym where we worked together. Fun fact, when we first met, I didn't think he spoke English because he didn't say "hi" to me for weeks. José's a fantastic personal trainer with a specialty in Boxing. He supported me throughout all my certifications. He has inspired me daily along the way. I wouldn't be the person, or the type of trainer I am,  without him.

  A few things everyone always wants to know about us:

He has tried every modality that I teach, and prefers Gyro over pilates. However he sees the value in both and recommends many of his clients take up either. 

Yes we do workout together, but we don't do it regularly.

My favorite session with him is kickboxing. We haven't done it in a long time, but it was something we both enjoyed. There is something about being able to put on the gloves and practice throwing combinations at your spouse that really fun for us. We are both competitive, so it’s like a little bout, martial artist vs. boxer. Ding ding! 

We run together too, sometimes on the weekends running the 4 mile loop in central park. Yes he likes to watch dance, but like all audiences has a preference for some styles and companies over others.

No he doesn't dance.

Despite our careers we keep our activities pretty low key on the weekends. Most of the time we reserve that time to relax and spend time with one another. However we have been known to participate in the biannual "Run for the Wild" which raises money for the Wildlife Conservation Society as well as obstacle/mud runs.

  What about dance? You choreograph and recently just performed a piece with a few Kinespirit teachers... Tell us about it! Well I moved to New York to pursue a dance career. Up until now my primary focus in dance was on performing. I have always had a hard time with auditions. After I started teaching I had to choose between going to go to an audition, or to build a relationship with my clients and employers that would allow me to go to a last minute audition. Choosing to work, although rewarding and a decision I stand by, also makes getting a dance job extremely difficult. Last summer I realized I could wait until I booked the next gig, or I could take matters into my own hands. I had always wanted to choreograph, but I thought I was going to wait for my performing career to end. I created a small modern dance troupe and hired some of the most beautiful people I know, including K’Spirits Julia Radomyski and Tara Nicolas. Former K'Spirit Julie Hansen also performed with us in our first show! It wasn't my intention to start a company, but the women I work with are phenomenal and we love working together. Doing it this way I can create opportunities for myself and the many talented dancers I know who should be on stage more. It is really empowering to be a dance maker; I have learned so much, gained a lot of confidence, self-worth, and friendships through the process. We most recently performed at the Ailey Citigroup Theater in April. There were many friendly Kinespirit faces in the audience who came to support us; I can't thank them enough for coming! I hope to see all of you at in the lobby after our next show! I really couldn't have done any of it without my seven ladies and José. Their love and support has and continues to fuel the belief I have in our work.

  Also, we hear you are on your way to graduate school in the fall. Tell us about the program and your goals with this next step in your life! I am going to pursue my MFA in Dance at NYU beginning September! I'm super excited! However it is a full time program so unfortunately I will not see all you lovely people on a regular basis. The program focuses on the choreography and performance aspects of dance, which will provide me the opportunity to develop a larger repertory while performing for my peers and the professionals who come to work with us. My long term goal with this degree besides creating dance pieces is to teach in a college or university.  

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Kinespirit Teacher Spotlight: Julia Radomyski

Hello Julia!!! Where are you from and how long have you lived in New York?

Hello!  I am from the mid-west, St. Louis then Chicago.  I have been in New York a little over a year and a half.

  How long have you been working at Kinespirit? Almost as long as I have lived here. I started working at the desk then started to teach more! 

  How did you first learn about Gyrotonic? What was your first experience with Gyrotonic? And your reaction? I first did Gyrotonic when I was doing a summer dance program at LINES Ballet school in San Francisco   The school is in the same building as San Francisco Gyrotonic and a lot of the dancers in the company do Gyrotonic (maybe all of them not sure).  But it was required as part of the summer program.  I didn't really know what it was at first and the classes that we took were pretty big groups.  Some of the dancers in the program were still quite young and would often skip to take naps or some seem to not be able to focus, but I was really in to it. The classes were more of an introduction and we focused on a principles and how to apply them to dancing which I started to do and it was really cool to see how that changed my dancing.  LINES ballet is known for their beautiful lines (obviously) and they are just really fluid and agile which pairs so nicely with Gyrotonic.  I left feeling like I had discovered a way to improve my dancing and wanted to know more for sure!

  How did you decide to become a Gyrotonic teacher? I was dancing in a company in Chicago and was also working at a bar and I guess like a lot of dancers I was looking for something to do in addition.  Teaching dance was not something that appealed to me for some reason I think I needed something different.  And at the time a lot of people I knew were teaching yoga or Pilates but Gyrotonic just felt like “me.”  And the more trainings I did the more I felt connected to the work and was excited to teach it especially because it was not so heard of.

  What has your journey been like as a teacher thus far? The journey is never ending for sure!  It is great to meet lots of different people who are excited about the work and who are open to learning.  Also, I feel like I learn so much from people I teach!  When learning Gyrotonic there is a progression and I think I tried to stick to that progression a lot when starting to teach.  But I also remember rushing the progression.  I've learned to just listen to people, everyone learns differently, at a different pace, or they need certain things more than other things.  I've also learned to embrace imagery and stick with your gut!

  How has your own personal practice evolved over the years? I try not to do the same things all the time but that can be hard.  I have learned to play around with different ways to do things, different props or a different weight.  Every time I do a training I feel like I go deeper into certain things.  After studying Gyrokinesis more I use it not only to make my body happy but also as a way to calm myself and reinvigorate   At first Gyro changed my body but over time it has even changed me into a better person, I think; more open and calm.

  You recently started studying for you Pilates certification, correct? When are you finished so that we can all start to work with you? Yes I did, I never thought I would.  There are a lot of people I would meet doing Gyrotonic trainings that had done Pilates for years and then they found Gyro and loved it and such.  It is usually not the other way that people become Pilates teachers after Gyrotonic, but here I am.  I think it is something that people need and I appreciate it.  I don't think I will be done until the end of the year???

  We want to know firsthand what you feel is the difference between Gyrotonic and Pilates! What has your reaction been thus far? The first kind of Pilates I did was classical and I didn't find that to be satisfying.  There are a lot of great variations on the classical, 'modern' styles, which is what makes the two different.  Pilates has and will keep evolving from all kinds of people.  Gyrotonic can evolve also but there is only one Gyrotonic.  Pilates can be a lot more specific.  I feel like it is a little more placed, you have to find the right position and then move from there.  It makes me feel really strong and secure. Gyrotonic makes me feel more open and long with more of an inner strength.  I feel I notice the difference even in the teacher trainings.  I feel like a Gyrotonic training is a lot about the experience; you get to move a lot more and practice using your hands.  In Pilates training (the one I am doing at least) we focus a lot of specific alignment and what kinds of people would need certain kinds of exercises.  I find them to be a nice balance!

     What do you do in your down time Julia? Oh boy I feel like I have been so busy lately.  But I try to keep up with dancing.  I like exploring the city when I can, going out to new places, or just in my neighborhood, going to see shows, etc.  I love to cook and bake, I started a food blog a couple of years ago that I have been trying to keep up.  I love food!

  What is your favorite food? Well I don't have one.  I would say blueberries and raspberries.  I also eat a lot of chocolate and popcorn. 

  Tell us about your family! Where does everyone live? Any brothers and sisters?

Yes I have an older brother who lives in Chicago, where my parents also live.  The rest of the family lives in Poland!

  We want a fun fact! Tell us something quirky about yourself!!! I make my own kombucha and I am part of a food co-op.

  Great stuff here Julia!! We appreciate all that you do at the studios and can’t wait to watch you to continue to grow and evolve as a teacher!!! SPIRAL ON!!!

[kinespirit-blog]

Kinespirit Client Spotlight: Carla Bianchi

Hi Carla! How long have you been coming to Kinespirit @ Madison Park? Has it been 6 years? Not sure....

  How did you find out about Kinespirit? I have been a client of Chantal’s since about 2002... I followed her to Kinespirit.

    You do both Pilates and Gyrotonic, correct? Who do you work with? Yes, I do both Pilates and Gyro. I work with Uli and Chantal.

    What do you love about Pilates? Pilates reminds me of the Bar work in ballet class. Your alignment, the foot work, finding your balance, the articulation of movement. Love all that...The stretching and strengthening in the exercises...feels great.

    What do you love about Gyrotonic? Gyro. I love the challenge of keeping that core strength and really trying to move fully and freely. Being open and trusting my body can go there.

    Your husband and daughter are K'Spirits as well? Did you convince them to come to Kinespirit or was it the other way around? My husband and daughter are both clients of Uli...

I introduced them to Kinespirit.  They Love it....       

    Do any of your friends do Gyrotonic or Pilates? Yes, I have friends who do both.  

    What is your favorite pass time? Reading, cooking, watching the Yankees and the Knicks, walking, wandering through the city.....   

    What is your favorite thing to do with your family? The family loves to gather together at the beach.

  Where is your favorite travel or destination spot? My favorite destination is our home on Fire Island. Once we open the house for the season you don't want to miss any time being there. We have great friends who live there. It's where our children have grown up. Can't wait to get there and don't want to leave...... 

  Thank you Carla! We hope you and your family continue to enjoy arching and curling @ Kinespirit!!! 

[kinespirit-blog]

Kinespirit Teacher Spotlight: Alexis

Hellloooo Alexis!! Where are you from originally? I'm originally from Dallas, Texas.  But left pretty early (high school) to live in Northern Michigan for dance (Interlochen Arts Academy)… and I’ve traveled around quite a bit since then.

  How long have you been teaching Pilates at Kinespirit? Well... time has certainly flown by... I guess I have to think about that.  Since August of 2011 -- coming up on two years! 

  What lead you to Pilates? You became certified when you were super young, no? I was young! The folks in my training group were in their 30's and 40's, so 18 felt...  youthful! Though now I see more and more young people taking on the certification process.   I sustained an injury during my last year at Interlochen Arts Academy that extended through my time at Boston Conservatory.  The surgery took me away from rigorously training for about a year.  I was first introduced to Pilates during various summer dance training programs but a fellow dancer introduced me to Anneliese (now an IT here at the NYC STOTT® Pilates certifying center) who was teaching at the STOTT certifying center in Dallas, close to my mom's house.  She poured a lot of time and energy into me pre- and post- surgery.  The knowledge I had gained made my choices much more clear as a dancer.  I was also shocked to find that a return to ballet class was not impossible.  I was strong in a way I had never experienced before, and there was an ease in which I could move through things.  I was more aligned and spent less energy trying to find my alignment while dancing.  Through my alignment and rehabilitation work with Anneliese, I physically felt the STOTT Pilates method to be a very intelligent source of material that I wanted to know more deeply.  She encouraged me to start the matwork training and originally I took it on to have a much deeper understand of the work for myself.  I got hooked and once I started that training, I went through all the levels and equipment modules in one swoop, apprenticed at the studio, and ended up a Full Level 1 and 2 instructor, including injury and special populations, before I left Dallas again.     

  Why do you think Pilates is such a great modality? It's just so intelligent and studied.  It's one-part programming, one-part execution, and one-part alignment and restoration of a neutral and optimally functioning body.  It allows space for both a deep bodily and intellectual understanding.    

  In your experience, how has Pilates made the greatest impact in your client's lives? Pilates impacts different people in different ways.  For some people, the impact is direct -- Pilates is the saving grace in spinal situations such as herniations and slipped disks, facilitating a fully functioning and pain-free body as the end-result.  For others, the effect is more of a sneaky shift.  Pilates is the type of movement that can be tolerated through certain illnesses or personal situations.  By simply allowing people to access their bodies, Pilates serves as such a grounding force, facilitating the ability to make stronger and more confident decisions while in emotionally difficult places.  The impact is incomparable from person to person, and I can only speak from experience on the other end... having been truly impacted by the method.

  HOWEVER, I see so much impact on the pregnant ladies!  Over the past couple of years I've been fortunate to have a strand of pregnant ladies that I have worked with from beginning until end, and then post-baby.  Those pregnant bodies do so much shifting  in just 9 months, and I can really see the work take to their bodies within only an hour’s time.  Just three weeks ago, I had a lady in her third trimester come into the studio SO sick to her stomach and feeling just terrible.  By the end, she was so happy that she came because she wasn't feeling sick at all and felt like the rest of the day was given back to her.  By the end she was also moving around in the studio like a woman totally in control of her body. That's huge. 

  How has Pilates changed over the course of when you started training to now? The science of exercise just continues to grow and with that so does the method of Pilates.  Of course the method is also growing in two ways.  One way not so great, with those quick courses popping up that can certify you, your uncle, and anyone else to become an instructor in less than 5 minutes.  And, amazing marketing can make just about anything look like a million bucks.   But even the scam-y marketing has raised the awareness of the general population.  My 93-year old Gramma used to tell people that I was teaching Karate-s (the martial art), when I first started, but the TV has set her straight. Ha!  And second, with all of the haggling in the courtroom on the term "Pilates," what we now have is also an ever-growing contemporary approach to Pilates. I generally find the growth of the contemporary approach to be more and more scientifically intelligent.  Someone or some group is doing more research to further our understanding and create even more appropriate exercises, I find that really exciting.

  Word has it that you started doing some GYROTONIC®! How has that been? Oh you must have been misinformed.  Did Uli tell you that?

  How have you found Gyrotonic to be different from Pilates? Just kidding! :)  Yes, when I first came to the studio, Jen and Chantal asked if I had ever done Gyro and my answer was something like... "Oh like one session when I was dancing in Amsterdam..." And Jen was like "Oh that's cool... you'll do it" and then she just moved on to the next topic.  And I was thinking... "hmm... how can she be so sure?"  But I'm a fairly pre-meditated person so I watched through the window for a long time, until I think just about everyone around me was about to pop with "just try it already!"  So finally I dove in with a private session. And fast-forward... It really does resonate with me... Allison Plamondon (awesome Madison Park admin!) and I have a little party with Uli every Wednesday.  

I find both Gyro and Pilates to be neutralizing and complimentary in many ways.  And there are some ways in which they do overlap.  I find Gyro gives me more permissiveness to think and act on a more energetic level and experience movement from that end.  It is such a powerful stream for the body.  I also feel like I am able to access my fascial patterns more directly through some of the Gyro exercises.  And even though the more contemporary approaches to Pilates are taking the work into more 3-D actions, the base-work is still more linear.  Gyro is, at it's root, quite 3-D.  Often when involved in other aethletic forms like dance or sports there isn’t a whole lot of time to think about placement, sometimes you really just have to feel your way through it.  Gyro is great for assistance in that respect. I can also feel that my body really wants and yearns for all of the twisting and rotating that Gyrotonic offers.  And just when I think I've twisted and rotated in as many ways as humanly possible…Uli, I think enjoys, blowing my mind AGAIN!

    What else do you do besides teach at Kinespirit? What is your outside of the studio life like? Well, I dance! Last year I had a couple of creative residencies that were incredible processes to experience artistically.   And currently I am immersed in the creation of a new work.  I'm working alongside some really incredible artists and people and I feel like I never have enough time with the work or with them.  So that entire process pretty much takes up my out-of-studio life.  I also see quite a lot of dance.  NYC is such a resource that hosts a very huge community of creative artists and their works. 

  What is your favorite pastime? Honestly my favorite pastime is doing very little because I always do so much. It is having a good coffee with brunch (love brunch, I could have it 3 times a day) and reading some poetry.  Or, having a laid-back hang with friends.  My cat and I also like our sun spots.

  You have amazing style :) What is your inspiration?? Wow! Really?  You know... I buy very little.  I'm kind of selective about adding pieces and the ones I add I keep for a long time in the collection.  I look for fabrics that feel delicious and clothes that make me feel really great.  And to me, the most important part of a garment is the fit. We have so many yucky weather days in NYC that I have to counter it somehow... so my clothes have to feel good.  Also, my mom has amazing style.  I still raid her closet when I go back to Texas and end up with some vintage Ralph Lauren or something.  Word has it I was a pretty stylin' kid when she dressed me.  If it were up to me, I'd still be wearing the red and green (with bells) Christmas outfit I wore every day in Kindergarten for 2 months until my mom found out from my Nanny! 

  Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.

Well... I had to ask a friend for help. 

1 - I have a background as an Anthropologist

2 - I used to compete as an International Latin Ballroom dancer and yes, my dress was see-through and my skin had to be body-builder brown. 

  We want to know about your cat. Enlighten us. Geertz (prounced: g-EAR-tz) turned 7 this past Wednesday.  He's amazing but getting a little whiny these days.  I'm not really sure what to do about that… he might be getting influenced by the loudly-barking dogs downstairs.  He really loves french fries and edamame (I think he thinks they are bugs) so for his b-day we got him french fries from the local fried chicken place.  He only ate one though -- he's very mannerly.  And recently, he learned how to stretch his hamstrings.  Really! Using his front legs!

  Thanks Alexis! Kinespirit is privileged to have such an amazing teacher and person on our staff. We look forward to more wonderfulness in the Pilates department, and best of luck on your Gyro pursuits! SPIRAL ON!

[kinespirit-blog]

KINESPIRIT "Move Beyond of the Week"

Pilates “Up Stretch”

Set-Up: Footbar up, 2 yellow springs or 1 yellow and 1 green spring.

Starting Position: Heels of hands are on the footbar, fingers and thumbs facing the same direction, arms are slightly bent with elbows angled back. Feet are against the shoulders rests in a high half-toe position, spine is flexed (rounded), with a head to tail connection.  

1. Inhale: Extend the hips to press the carriage out as far as flexion can be maintained. Once this position is hit, keep the carriage out and lengthen through the spine from tail to head into a dart position. 

2. Exhale: Maintain the dart position and from the shoulder joint, bring the shoulders over the hands and start to return the carriage.

3. Flex the spine, initiating from head, pull the feet underneath the pelvis to return the carriage complete.

Try to complete 5 repetitions! 

Helpful hints: Think of your body as if it is making half a circle.

Extra Challenge: Higher spring weight makes Up Stretch more challenging for the upper body. Lighter springs make this exercise more challenging for the abdominals.       

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Kinespirit Client Spotlight: Shaari Gross-Cohen

HELLLOOO Shaari! Where are you from originally? How long have you lived in New York?

I am originally from Boca Raton, FL. Moved to LA after college in Chicago, and moved to NYC almost 7 years ago to open up a fashion showroom.

  Tell us how you found Kinespirit! I found Kinespirit through DJ Gray. I used to take Pilates and GYROTONIC® with DJ when I first moved to NY. Stopped the practice for awhile to focus more on cardio, and when I found out I was pregnant, I immediately called DJ to get back into it.

  Originally you began with Pilates, correct? Why did you decide to make the move to Gyrotonic? DJ had me transition to Gyro about 6 years ago as she really loves the practice and thought it would be good for me. I am very high intensity active person and Gyro is so centering and calming. The first time I ever did Gyro (and again when I got back into it pregnant), I left and started to cry. Not because I was sad!! I cried because it just brought so much tension and anxiety to the surface. It is very therapeutic.

  Do you ever envision yourself doing both, or have you become a Gyrotonic convert completely? I love the strength training associated with Pilates, so when I have the baby I see myself going back to Pilates as well. Pilates didn’t feel as good on my body pregnant as Gyro does.

  You are pregnant! How far along are you? I am 30 weeks!! Due end of May!

  Very exciting! Let us know the role Gyrotonic has played in your pregnancy thus far. Gyro has done wonders for the aches and pains associated with pregnancy. It just feels right and I always leave my sessions with the amazing Abbe feeling a lot lighter!

  Do you plan to continue Gyrotonic or Pilates after your pregnancy? Yes, hopefully if time and money permit, BOTH!

  You also just received a pre-natal massage at Kinespirit by the wonderful Jen Kosky. How was it, and how did it differ from a "normal" massage? It was great! I have gotten quite a few pre-natal massages at fancy spas and they barely touch me!! It is like a very light body rub! Who wants that? ESPECIALLY when I am carrying around a heavy basketball in my mid-region. Jen was no frills and just got in there and worked out my aches and pains. She knows what she is doing so isn't scared of getting in there and getting out the tension. She knows the places on a pregnant body to avoid but also the safe regions and she really helped my pain a lot!! Can’t wait for the next one!!

  Tell us about your career! I own a fashion showroom called Focus Showroom New York. I represent contemporary designers and act as the liaison between designers and retailers.

  What part of the city do you live in, and do you have any other children, or is this your first?

I live with my cute husband on the Upper West Side and this is our first baby! AND it’s a girl!

  What are your most favorite pass times? I love biking along the Westside Highway when the weather permits. I love spinning and soul cycle but found it did not feel right pregnant so I am on a brief hiatus! I love going to Broadway shows, fun dinners, and I am a HUGE BEACH GIRL so in the summer, I get to the beach as often as possible!!! I also LOOOOVE going back home to Florida.

  What is your favorite thing about living in New York? I love that everything is at your fingertips! You can walk outside your office or apartment and so much is going on!!! ALSO- I met my husband Gideon in NY and he is from Westchester so he is my absolute favorite thing about NY!!!!

                                                               If you could tell the world one message about Gyro, what would it be? TRY IT- I am the most high energy, non-yogi person in the world and I can attest Gyro will rock your world!!! It is such a relaxing and centering practice and can make the most anxious person zen-like.

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kinespirit Teacher Spotlight: Abbe Ouziel

Hi Abbe! How long have you been teaching GYROTONIC®? I have been teaching for about 4 and half years.

  How long have you worked at Kinespirit? I started out as workstudy in April 2009 and slowly started taking on clients. I switched over to just teaching at the end of 2009/ beginning of 2010.

  Where are you from? I am from Teaneck, NJ... a suburb 15 miles away from Manhattan.

  How did you first discover Gyrotonic, and what was your journey with the work and becoming a teacher? I first discovered Gyrotonic as a senior in high school. I was dancing at a studio in my hometown that was run by a former principal dancer of Dance Theater of Harlem. Leslie Ann Cardona, another former DTH dancer and Gyrotonic Instructor was subbing a ballet class at the studio. I was struggling with an ongoing ankle injury and she told me to come into the city to train with her. She didn't even tell me what it was, but I had been to PT for a while and knew that surgery was a strong possibility... I was open for anything that would help! I fell in love with the work instantly, and continued to train at a studio on the Upper West Side while I was getting my BFA in dance through the Ailey/Fordham BFA program. I ended up needing surgery on my ankle but Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis allowed me to get back on my feet in no time and kept me moving when I couldn't dance. My last year at Ailey, I decided it would be a good idea to get certified because I loved the work and wanted to have a job that would be a good fit for my lifestyle... but more importantly, I wanted to share this work with other people. I am so grateful I made that decision.

  How does Gyrotonic translate into your everyday life? I don't know what I would do without it! My body gets mad at me if I've gone a day or two without getting on a tower or doing some Gyrokinesis. It's also taught me that every single day brings something new and different because I've never once sat down to do Arch and Curl and had the same experience.

  How has the work evolved for you over the years? Well, when I first started doing Gyrotonic I was 16 and now, 10 years later, things are different! What I love about this work is that it has remained a constant in my life no matter how much things have changed. What has evolved is my status from student to teacher, which has been an extremely rewarding experience and thankfully being a certified instructor means that you are constantly learning more and more.

  Let us know a funny and/or inspiring teaching story. Teaching my mom was both funny and inspiring! She is a nurse and most of her career was spent in Labor and Delivery, so she's witnessed first-hand just how incredible the human body is. Her work has always inspired me to be curious and in awe of our physical capability. It was wonderful to share this work with her and show her just how much she is capable of.

  We want to know about your passion for acting, screenwriting, and theatre! Tell us more about this awesome world of yours outside the studio! I am not dancing as much these days, although I have started taking class again. I have switched gears to acting and, more importantly, screenwriting. I spent a year in an acting conservatory after college and loved it. Through auditioning and working on other people’s projects, I found that I had a real desire to make my own work.

  What is a fun short term goal you have with these pursuits? I have set a goal for myself to finish at least 2 short screenplays by this summer. I have some friends who are filmmakers and know a lot more than me! I'd like to get a team together to shoot one of my scripts this summer or fall.

  What about a long term goal? I would be so lucky to continue to create... maybe a feature length project, teach, and spend time with the people I love!

  We also understand that you are a bit of a music aficionado! Tell us about your favorite types of music and how music plays into your life! I can't live without music! I lean towards classic or alternative rock... Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, The Beatles, WIlco, REM, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Smashing Pumpkins...the list goes on! I have always been a fan (of instruments), but never had time to learn how to play an instrument since I grew up dancing. But now I'm learning guitar! I've been studying for about a year and have started writing some songs myself... it’s just fun! My boyfriend is a drummer and in school right now for music production. Luckily I live with someone who is just as obsessed and is OK with concert posters everywhere.

  What are your parting words about Gyrotonic? Gyrotonic has changed my life in a lot of ways and I have seen the ways in which it has changed the lives of the people I've had the pleasure of working with. I think it's a wonderful way for people to get in touch with their bodies and the unique ways in which they move. There is always something new to learn about yourself through movement, and Gyrotonic is a great way to search for some of the things you haven't yet discovered.

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kinespirit Client Spotlight: Jeanne Safer

  Hi Jeanne! Who do you work with and how long have you been coming to kinespirit @ madison park? I’ve known and worked with Chantal for about 8 years, and followed her everywhere! I’ve been coming to kinespirit @ madison park since she has been there.   Have you ever done Pilates, or do you just stick to GYROTONIC? Yes, I was initially attracted to Pilates for its rigor and intensity, and studied it for several years with Chantal and colleagues of hers, but I have been doing Gyro exclusively with her for quite a few years now. Its three-dimensionality seduced me.   How did you find out about Gyrotonic, and how did you find out about kinespirit in particular? I first learned about Gyrotonic when it was new to New York and (Gyrotonic was) still called White Cloud. I was curious about the beautiful, originally handmade apparatus and the fluidity of the movement. Chantal introduced me to this technique, and I’ve worked with her everywhere she has taught. Kinespirit is by far the best movement environment I have ever seen, and there is nothing more challenging, satisfying and esthetic than Gyro.   Do you do enjoy any other physical activities aside from Gyrotonic? I am a serious devotee of Total Immersion Swimming, which is essentially Gyro in the water, and vice versa. I’ve made swim videos for women over 50 with my coach that can be seen on YouTube. My gyro practice and my swimming constantly inform each other. (Watch one of Jeanne's awesome videos here! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=La1xK6EzLwI)   Tell us how your practice has changed over the years? What are you currently focusing on in your sessions? Gyro is such a profound and sophisticated form of movement that I feel I am only just beginning to appreciate its essence. At this point, I focus less on learning the (often daunting) choreography, and more on the inner experience.   What is your favorite thing about Gyrotonic? It uses your whole self.   How long have you been a New Yorker? I moved to New York for graduate school in 1969, and cannot conceive of living anywhere else.   Tell us about your home life! Husband, kids, grandkids, pets? :) I have been married to Richard Brookhiser, a political journalist and historian, for 32 years, and we are on opposite sides of the political spectrum—which we’ve written about extensively, since people often wonder how we do it. We are childless by choice.

Tell us about your career. I’m a PhD psychologist, I’ve been a psychotherapist in private practice for 40 years, and I’ve written 5 books on “Taboo Topics”—the things people think about but never discuss publicly. I have a special interest in people who grow up with dysfunctional or disabled siblings. My most recent book is "Cain’s Legacy: Liberating Siblings from a Lifetime of Rage, Shame, Secrecy, and Regret." My radio and TV appearances are on my website, JeanneSaferPhD.com. I’ve actually written about my experience with Gyrotonic and Chantal. Here is an excerpt from my book "Death Benefits" about something that occurred at kinespirit @ madison park. It is the climax of the autobiographical chapter of that book: "As I stood up at the end of my exercise session today, something unexpected happened. My trainer had put a two-and-a-half-pound weight on my head, as she often does, to help me find my natural balance. It’s harder than it looks and always feels shaky and slightly scary at first, as though the disc could fall off and land on my foot At that moment, I had a visual and sensory experience that started me: I felt that I was surrounded by cushions of living light, soft and resilient. They were all around me. They kept me in place without any effort: I only had to give in and let myself be held by them. There was my father, and my friends, and my husband, and under it all was my mother, flawed but real. At last, I knew I was supported, physically supported, by love. I teetered slightly as I tried to find true equilibrium, seeking a sense of standing erect but at ease, without locking and straining, trusting and feeling suspended in their midst. Their distilled love was all around me, palpable like flesh, keeping me upright, even though I wavered. Whether I could stay standing was no longer a question…There was no unfillable deficit any more. I had enough; I never had to steel myself again."   What do you do in your spare time? Favorite hobbies, interests, pass times, etc? My husband and I have a cabin in the Catskills with an herb garden—and an indoor current swimming pool for my other passion.   How do you think we can get more people interested in practicing Gyrotonic? Do any of your friends practice Gyrotonic? I encourage all my patients to explore Gyrotonics, and some of them have become devotees. I think the best way to encourage people is to let them know that you don’t have to be a professional dancer to experience deep joy in movement.   What a simply fascinating journey you took us on Jeanne. We are honored to have you as a K'Spirit... truly. NOW SPIRAL ON!

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Kinespirit Teacher Spotlight: Michelle Cady

Hi Michelle! Where are you from originally, and how long have you lived in New York City? Originally from Livonia, MI (a suburb of Detroit) and I moved to NYC last September!

  Do you teach Pilates or GYROTONIC®, and how long have you worked at Kinespirit? I teach Pilates and I've been working at Kinespirit since October 2012.

  How did you happen to become a Pilates instructor? What lead you to the work? Pilates was a huge part of my dance training, especially in undergrad. After realizing how much it helped my alignment and strength, I became really interested. It also brought awareness to posture issues I was completely unaware of before.

  Tell us about training to become a Pilates instructor. How long does it take, and what is the progression like? There's a variety of levels and equipment you can train on which you can either do back to back or spread out. I did my initial training in Mat and Reformer in a few months, and after that I've been spreading out the rest of my courses. I just finished my Cadillac Chair and Barrel courses and I'm planning on finishing my Level II training (this means advanced levels) in the spring and eventually training in Injuries and Special Populations.

  What is your favorite thing about teaching Pilates? Do you have any especially interesting or inspiring teaching stories as of late? My favorite thing is giving clients the tools to make lifelong changes to their bodies. I've had a lot of clients with posture issues and the changes they've made through Pilates has given them relief from back pain, neck and shoulder issues etc. One funny story was when I first moved here and I saw my first NYC cockroach (I SWEAR they are not that big in Michigan), I freaked out and involuntarily screamed. I was lucky enough to be teaching someone less squeamish than me who killed it, but I felt so embarrassed after!

  Have you tried GYROTONIC? Yes, once and it was amazing! Hoping to learn more about it.

  Tell us about life outside of Kinespirit! What other hobbies, pass times, or activities are you involved in? In addition to Pilates, I'm a dancer and I dance with John J. Zullo/Raw Movement as of last November. Other than Pilates and taking dance classes, I like to explore the city a lot. I'm still new to it and I find something interesting almost every day. I love to travel and try new restaurants (which works out well since I'm not much of a cook). Once in a while I like to stay home and read a book (I'm a HUGE bookworm and have always been one).

  Do you have any brothers, sisters, or pets? One older brother and one older sister. We are all spread out over the country, with my sister in California, my brother in Texas, and my parents in Michigan. Unfortunately, my two dogs are also in Michigan, but I couldn't leave my parents without any company!

  Tell us more about YOU! What are some short term (or long term!) goals with Pilates and life in New York? In the long term I'm interested in exploring the idea of becoming a Pilates Instructor trainer, ideally travelling across the country and abroad to do training workshops. I'm also considering exploring more of Gyrotonic to see if that's a movement style I would be interested in instructing. Short term I'm just finding my niche in the city and reminding myself to take it one day at a time, and not try to plan out the rest of my life all at once.

  We want to know something weird/funny/interesting about Michelle! When I was 18, I won a free trip to London. It was my favorite place in the world, and now I actually want to move there someday! When I was younger and had really blonde hair people used to always tell me I looked like Britney Spears. As I got older and my hair darkened they stopped saying it, and now I get Kiera Knightley and Natalie Portman. Clearly I am meant to be some sort of celebrity impersonator.