Meet our April Yogi of the Month, Ayumi!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I have been practicing hot yoga for 3 years. Other than yoga, I like swimming, skiing and riding on bicycles.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

When we moved from Tokyo to New York 2 years ago, it was absolutely essential for me to find a new studio. Thanks to my husband who is also a Yogi now, he searched the new neiborhood and found YogaSpark !

I immediately became addicted, and already completed over 600 classes at YogaSpark.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I am thankful to all my teachers. All classes are fun and challenging. I also love the heat and the sweat.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Concentration.

I try to concentrate on my breathe and empty my head when practicing.

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

80s and Taylor Swift

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

We have the same quote in Japanese, and I like to challenge myself.

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

Warrior series. It makes me feel powerful and strong.

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you.

I am a Disney fan, and love Disney Cruise.

Meet Our March Yogi of the Month, Shirley!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I started practicing yoga about 7 years ago. A spin instructor i liked also taught yoga so i decided to try it - i had no idea it was hot power yoga - i thought i would die that first class! I also spin and ride real bikes, swim, hike and walk.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I was going to a different studio before the pandemic. When things opened up again i decided to try Spark as i had often walked by the studio. And here i am.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

It makes me feel cleansed, calm and strong all at once

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Life saving. I came to yoga during a time in my life of significant personal trauma and tragedy and it was the one place i could stop my head spin, the one place i could find peace in all the chaos.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

I have many favorite quotes but i am going to share something Christina B read out loud at the end of one of her Friday morning classes - it really resonated with me and i lean on it often
A monk decides to meditate alone, away from his monastery. He takes his boat out to the middle of the lake, moors it there, closes his eyes and begins his meditation. After a few hours of undisturbed silence, he suddenly feels the bump of another boat colliding with his own. With his eyes still closed, he senses his anger rising, and by the time he opens his eyes, he is ready to scream at the boatman who dared disturb his meditation. But when he opens his eyes, he sees it is an empty boat that had probably got untethered and floated to the middle of the lake. At that moment, the monk achieves self-realization, and understands that the anger is within him; it merely needs the bump of an external object to provoke it out of him. From then on, whenever he came across someone who irritated him or provoked him to anger, he reminded himself ‘’The other person is merely an empty boat. The anger is within me……”

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

I used to be great at balancing (which made me very proud of myself) and with the soft floor at Spark i seem to often have trouble with balances now so i keep working on that

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

I have lived on three continents and traveled to many countries we can no longer go to for safety and security reason

Meet Our February Yogi of the Month, Lana!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I have practiced yoga for 15-20 years. I also like tennis and jogging.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
It was so long ago! I believe I heard another Central School mom was opening a Hot Yoga Studio in town. I am a big "support local" believer, so I tried it out and was immediately hooked!

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
I love how my body feels during and after. I need to sweat to feel like I have worked out and this definitely fits the bill.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
Necessary!

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
Anything Radiohead, also love the instrumental versions of songs, like the U2 "with our without you" classical violin version that Jenny Ray played today!

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
"Funny, he never has a 2nd cup of coffee at home" - Airplane!

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
Dancer's pose, really anything that challenges my balance.

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you!
I have twin girls that will be turning 13 in May and a CavapooShon (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel/Poodle/Bichon Frise mix) named Cozette (Cozy) that is the love of my life, just kidding Derek!

Meet our January yogi of the month, Mark!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I started practicing yoga when I retired in 2013. I play racketball, work out on an elliptical I bought during the pandemic, and enjoy biking (including a Citibike to YogaSpark!).

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I walked by one day six years ago and decided to check it out. Nikki and Julia were welcoming, the facility looked great, and I liked the vibe.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

In addition to all the regular physical and mental benefits of yoga, I love the heat and the sweat.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Life-enhancing.

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

So hard to pick one, as I have many playlists from various yoga instructors, but how about “We are the World” by Carmen de Silva, which my first instructor often played.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

“Estoy feliz, soy feliz” I am quoting myself as this is my sankalpa when I do Yoga Nidra (which I first did at a retreat in Spain), and it essentially means “I am happy now, I am a happy person.”

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

After 10 years of practice, I can finally do a reasonable crow pose (but not always). I also love rolling up vertebrae-by-vertabrae from a forward fold to a position with arms extended overhead (although many instructors do not do it slowly enough for me to fully enjoy the experience).

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

Factoid # 1: I was struck by lightning when I was 18.
Factoid #2: In 2019, I spent four months traveling throughout South America with my son, including a yoga retreat in the Sacred Valley in Peru. I am now planning a trip this winter with my daughter that includes a yoga retreat in the Amazon in Peru.

Meet Our December Yogi of the Month, Debbie!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I actually started practicing yoga when Lauren opened the studio! 10 years ago? YogaSpark has literally changed my life since then. I also like to walk and play tennis.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
When the studio first opened a friend asked if I wanted to try and after one class I was hooked.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
I love practicing hot power yoga because it is an intense workout and yet simultaneously restorative. I also love hot yoga because it's the only time I am able to spend an entire hour not thinking about anything else. In addition to obvious benefits like strength and flexibility, I love practicing yoga mostly because it has changed how I live my life off the mat; it has taught me to focus on my breath and to practice presence, acceptance, and gratitude.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
Therapeutic

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
I don't really have a favorite song to flow to as I'm usually focused on surviving the flow! That said, a little Beyonce or Earth, Wind & Fire for core work is always helpful! (thanks Kaitlin ;)

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
Side Crow

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you
I was born in Africa

Meet Our November Yogi of the Month, Sarah!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I've practiced yoga for a little under a year - YogaSpark was actually my first studio yoga and hot yoga class. I also love running, tennis and a good post-yoga walk by the water!

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I was looking to try something new. I ended up loving YogaSpark right from the first class - the instructors are so welcoming, the flows are always unique and the cold tea tree towel at the end is the best!

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I love that it's both physically and mentally challenging, yet restorative at the same time.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Balance - literally balancing in poses during practice and figuratively a balance of peace, empowerment and strength

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

The music is one of my favorite things at YogaSpark - my current two favorites are flowing to Tokyo Sunrise by LP and cooling down with Sweet Nothing Piano Version.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

"Be afraid and do it anyway"

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

I'm trying to get my crow and flying warrior down!

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you.

I love love love watermelon and cucumbers - you'll never catch my fridge without one or the other.

Meet Our October Yogi of the Month, Tricia!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I started practicing yoga 20 years ago. Once I started having children I took a break but am so happy to be back at it. The only exercise I do besides yoga is walking my 90 pound Rottweiler.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
My friend Eryn mentioned the studio was having a week promotion and I had been wanting to get back into yoga. Once the week was up I was hooked.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
How strong it makes me. Mentally and physically.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
Serenity

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
Dance the night.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
Everything happens for a reason

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
Half moon

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you
I love scary movies

Meet our September Yogi of the Month, Bryan!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I practiced Yoga for about 3 years over 10 years ago. When I moved to NY from Vancouvr in 2011 Istarted a 10 year hiatus because I could not find a studio I gelled with. One time (at a studio that will not be named) I was told to find another studio that was less advanced becuse I was disturbing the flow of the class. I'm the only person I know who has been cut from yoga class!

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I wanted to get back into yoga while I was taking time off work last year. I was happy to find hot flow yoga with a low key vibe again!

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I like the challenge of practicing the positions in the heat. I really like when the class flies by in the blink of an eye. Yoga also keeps me in good shape for skiing and has saved me from skiing injuries.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Empowering and rejuvenating.

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

I'm the worst at song names.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

"The bill always came" which is from the Sun Also Rises. I always take the quote to mean be good to others as you travel through life.

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

I'm trying to get better at flying warrior.

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

I love skiing.

Cathy's dedication, strength, and energy inspires us all here at YogaSark! Read her full interview and get to know this wonderful Yogi.

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do? I practiced yoga on and off six years ago including lyengar yoga which I loved for deep stretching. Walks, strength training, and soul cycle are some of my other go to exercises.
Q: What brought you to YogaSpark? My dear friend Veronica and I enjoy exploring different workouts together. We practiced yoga previously and she invited me to join her at Yoga Spark. I had never tried hot yoga, but I went in with any open mind. To my surprise I loved it. The sweating, the music, the energy was so powerful and addictive in a spiritual way. The staff and all the teachers are so committed and passionate, and no matter what level of yoga, you feel that you are part of this beautiful, supportive community. The cold tea tree towel is perfect for the cool down. I have not stopped coming!
Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga? I absolutely love that Yoga is meditative. Yoga makes me focus, listen, and stay in the moment. I pay more attention to my body not only for great workouts but also for a healthy mind. The hot room provides a space that brings a sense of calm and peace while moving with mindful breathing as I explore each pose. What I do on the mat also helps what I do in life off the mat. I have noticed that I do feel lighter, more balanced, and have clarity. It improves all aspects of my life. My family tells me I’m radiating energy and glowing since hot yoga.
Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you? FOCUS – I focus on my mind, body and breathing. I focus on positive thoughts and improving myself on and off the mat.
Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to? The yoga instructors teach their flows to dynamic and inspirational playlists. Too many favorite songs, but if pressed I would say right now, I’m enjoying flowing to Doja Cat’s song, Attention. It’s funky and soulful like hot power yoga.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote? “I accept, love, and forgive myself. I am brave, powerful, and beautiful”. I heard this phrase in a Yoga Spark class and it really resonated with me. I repeat it often. It’s become a personal mantra.
Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now? The crow pose is my favorite right now. When I started hot yoga a few months ago, I could not imagine my feet ever coming off the ground in crow pose. Now I feel all parts of my body getting stronger and working to lift me up and yes, I finally got my toes off the ground.
Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you: I Love dancing Salsa especially with my family!

Delia is a 20 year yogi, an entrepreneur, a Cassie playlist stan, and an absolute light within the YogaSpark community! Read her full interview and get to know this beautiful yogi.

Q: How long have you practised yoga, and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I have practiced yoga for over 20 years. I walk, take an occasional Soul Cycle class or ride a Peloton bike.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I tried many classes in the neighborhood, but YogaSpark felt right for me since it has consistently been a kind and welcoming place. It's the teachers and experience at YogaSpark that have made me highly motivated to practice regularly.

Q: What do you love about practising hot power yoga?

How clearly I can think after class and how power yoga has built up my confidence to try new poses and challenge my body.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Focus

Q: What's your current favourite song to flow to?

I don't have one favorite song, but I do LOVE a Cassie Mills playlist ;)

Q: Do you have a favourite quote?

Happiness is not exuberant or noisy, like pleasure or joy; it's silent, tranquil, and gentle; it's a feeling of satisfaction inside that begins with self-love.

— Isabel Allende

Q: What yoga pose do you love practising right now?

Headstand

Q: Tell us one non-yoga factoid about you

I am an entrepreneur. My business partner and I are building a platform called Forty Fifty, a midlife legacy project.

Meet our June Yogi of the Month, Melissa!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do? I found yoga on Mother's Day in 2018 but only started truly practicing yoga in 2019. Beyond yoga I enjoy running and strength training.
Q: What brought you to YogaSpark? I found YogaSpark when I was on the hunt for some me time. I had my three kids in three years and needed to take some time out for myself a few times a week.
Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga? It's this YogaSpark community! In the beginning of my practice I would show up and simply go through the motions but there is truly something special about the YogaSpark hot room. I love the energy, the people, the teachers and the commitment it lights up in me to be the best version of myself.
Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you? Self-Care
Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to? I mean music is a good portion of why we come to YogaSpark so I can't say one but any Leon Bridges song.
Q: Do you have a favorite quote? What makes you different or weird, that's your strength.
Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now? I love a dramatic entrance into warrior 2
Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you. Many moons ago I played Belle at Disney world

Meet our May Yogi of the Month, Jaclyn!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I’ve dabbled in yoga for 16 years but also love HITT workouts, boxing, barre, and a good old fashioned long walk.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

My friend encouraged me to try hot yoga four months ago and I’ve been hooked ever since. I checked out a lot of studios but YogaSpark was love at first class!

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

Hot yoga is as much a mental workout as it is a physical workout.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Equanimity: calmness in the midst of pressure.

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

Hard to pick just one…soul music is my favorite genre. Cassie’s playlists are always on point…if you haven’t taken one of her classes, it’s a must!

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

“How you do anything is how you do everything.”

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

I’m working on my crow pose, and then side crow. Send any tips my way!

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

I love crafting and am teaching myself how to sew and embroider!

Louisa has been practicing yoga for nearly 30 years and is now recovering from a recent ACL injury that has taken her practice off the mat and into her every day life

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I've been practicing yoga for about 27 years! GASP. I mainly like to do yoga. And I enjoy long walks with friends too!

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
I like practicing all forms of Yoga. Yoga spark attracted me because of the incredibly loyal, fun and vivacious community.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
I think the feeling when you lay down in savasana after a hot power yoga class is up there with any "amazing" feeling you can have in this life. It's not a feeling you can buy or take something to feel. You have to earn by giving everything in class, and it's transformative. I love that feeling.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
Divine

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
I'm not good at picking music...I leave that to the pros!

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
Yes! A speech that I read when I did my first yoga teacher training (See here)
https://uh.edu/~hwagan/pnl/mandela.pdf

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
These days...with a torn ACL...Downward dog is INCREDIBLE. Getting my leg to fully straighten and feeling the strength of my quads. It's amazing how a pose I took for granted is now like medicine to heal my body!

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you
My favorite food is french fries. I order them almost every time I have the chance!!!

Meet our March Yogi of the Month, Dong!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I started practicing yoga regularly in 2006 - cannot believe it has been 17 years. I run twice a week and like exercises with my kids for fun- hiking, swimming, etc

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

When our family moved to downtown in 2019, I passed by the studio everyday. After took my one-week intro trial, I know I’ve found my tribe. I love the welcoming community and the instructors I am proud to call friends now.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I love the hot yoga glow you get from practicing – exercises in the heated room helps with increased blood circulation and indeed makes you spark.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

A moving meditation. As the sign at the studio states, “Hot body, Cool mind.”

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

I don’t really have one favorite song- I like the various playlists curated by our instructors.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

It’s not about being good at something, it’s about being good to yourself.

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

Wheel pose is the one I am working on now. And my forever favorite pose is Savasana

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you.

I love to cook and try new recipes - cooking is my in-home meditation. If you have a good recipe, please share with me.

Meet Jeffrey, our February 2023 Yogi of the Month!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I tried yoga for the first time about 10 years ago, paused for 7 years and then started again about 3 years ago. I ski as often as I can, and play tennis, paddle, golf, and ride the Peloton.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I was complaining about my back to a friend who told me I needed to go with him to YogaSpark. One guest pass later and I was hooked.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

It challenges both my body and mind. I love the way both feel after practicing.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Restorative fuel for the body.

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

There are so many I like. Some that relax, some that motivate and some that I want to sign along with. The song that does all this for me the few times I’ve heard it in a class is “Can’t you See” by the Marshall Tucker Band.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

Not sure I have a favorite, but one I like a lot is: “Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.”

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

Savasana with a cold tea tree soaked towel on my forehead!

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

I once skied over 200 days in a 12 month period.

Meet Maddie, our January 2023 Yogi of the Month!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I got into it in college, about 15 years ago. I walk a lot, around the city and with my dog. I also like barre and Pilates on occasion.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
It was the first studio In my neighborhood to reopen following covid and I was dying to get back to in person classes. After a few days I knew this was the right studio for me to join permanently.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
I love that there are many benefits in one hour- I get my heart rate up, build strength, stretch out my muscles, get a good sweat and loosening of my body from the heat, have quiet, focused meditative time to recharge, and feel the support of the community. I also love having an exercise practice that I enjoy and look forward to everyday.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
A saving Grace

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
No favorites, all the songs blend together when I'm in the flow but I appreciate how each teacher puts their own spin on the music and each class has a different playlist.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
Too many to choose but I really appreciate the readings some of the teachers share at the end of class.

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
Down dog has been really grounding and good for releasing my back and shoulder tension lately. And something I'm actively practicing with a goal is crow pose.

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you
I'm a proud Texan at heart, living in ny for the past 3 years.

Jill's strong and dedicated practice is an inspiration to us all!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
Oh my goodness I feel old saying this but i have been practicing yoga on and off for a least 20 years but more consistently for the past 5 years. Other than yoga I play a little bit of tennis and do a lot of CrossFit.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
CrossFit actually brought me to YogaSpark. The gym I was at organized something with YogaSpark where their members were able to try a free yoga class. The rest is history.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
Oh Gosh, There are so many things I love about practicing hot yoga but I would say mainly the feeling that I’m healing my body from the inside out. That body buzz at the end of class is what I live for.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
Moving mediation.

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
I have two!! Is that against the rules? It’s between Mt. Everest by Labrinth and Feels Like a Sunday by Elderbrook.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

There are so many amazing quotes out there but this one in particular resonates with me at this time in my life. "You have your way. I have my way. As for the right way, the correct way, and the only way, it does not exist." FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
Right now I’m loving Sun salutation A. I’m really trying to work on my handstand hold so this allows me the freedom to do so. I know technically this is not a “pose” 😝

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

I never finish the last 10% of whatever I am drinking because when I was a kid someone told me the last 10% of what was left of my drink was 90% backwash!!! Have I ruined it for you too?

Heather started practicing with us at the beginning of 2022, and has become a fixture in our midday classes!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I have been practicing yoga for about 15 years now and don’t ever plan to stop! I also love tennis, horseback riding and hiking, but yoga is definitely my go to.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

I was searching the city for a yoga HOME and found Yoga Spark and its beautiful community so welcoming. Not to mention that the teachers are fantastic and the staff are so supportive, THANK YOU!

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I love the intensity of hot yoga as well as the mindful practice. It is truly the best of both worlds: high intensity plus meditation.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Lightning Rod. The practice of yoga takes my mental and physical energy and gives it a focus. It helps to ground and clear my scattered, and sometimes negative thoughts, so that I have the freedom and mental space to choose gentler and kinder thoughts. Yoga makes me a better human being.

Q: What's your current favorite song(s) to flow to?

It is hard for me to pick just one song. I am a sucker for “Something Just Like This” by the Chainsmokers/Coldplay, “Titanium” by David Guetta and anything by Prince. Oh, and when I am cooling down, “The Book of Love” by Peter Gabriel.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” ― Albert Einstein

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

Right now, I am fascinated with Bound Half Moon. I am not stable in the pose yet, but for those few seconds when I am in it, I feel like I am flying.

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

I enjoy baking and make a mean oatmeal chocolate chip cookie.

Pamela is oh-so-close to hitting her 100th class at YogaSpark! After a long (18 year) history of practicing, we're so proud to be her yoga home.

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

I've practiced yoga for at least 18 years. I go to the gym and enjoy lifting weights, I also enjoy African Dance for years.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

My friend, Chiharu Yiens encouraged me for a couple of months to come to Yoga Spark. She knows me well and knew I would love it......She knew I would enjoy the HEAT, the different teachers with varying degrees of practice, levels and styles.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I find hot yoga empowering, it allows you to go beyond your limits. It's also detoxifying, afterwards there is a great lifted sensation that last through out the day.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Exhilarating

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?

Mary J. Blige.......JUST FINE!

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

My own that I live by.....it's not what it looks like...it's what it feels like (that's all that matters).
I say it all the time to new people....
Also...just stay in the room

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

Love Triangle!

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

Love to encourage people

Meet Our September Yogi of the Month, Yasmin!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
I’ve practiced on and off for years. I remember taking my first non bikram yoga class and loved it. I also love going for walks by the pier and rumble boxing.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
We had recently moved to the area, I saw the sign outside and tried the one week trial and was hooked ever since.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
I love the feeling of releasing toxins both mentally and physically.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
Therapeutic

Q: What's your current favorite song to flow to?
So many, I love old school R&B. However I can flow to biggie smalls

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
‘There is no such thing as a work-life balance. It is all life. The balance has to be within you’ Sadhguru

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?
Warrior 3.

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you
I've probably seen every episode of the golden girls a 100 times.

Meet our July 2022 Yogi of the Month, Brian!

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?

A: One of your former teachers (Brynn Kurlin) and I used to train and share the same coach at Crossfit facility in White Plains (Westchester Fit). I was curious about yoga and I knew she was a teacher at Yoga Spark. I decided to try the 7am class and never looked back. Thanks Brynn!

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

A: I love the feeling of being mentally and physically cleansed after class. For me, there is no better feeling.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

A: Synergy of mind and body.

Q: Do you have a favorite quote?

A:“Comparison is thief of joy”.

Q: What yoga pose do you love practicing right now?

A: Savasana. Being still remains one of the most challenging poses for me. Practicing being present is a lifelong endeavor for me 😉

Q: Tell us one non yoga factoid about you

A: I once hitchhiked my way through Vietnam.

Meet our May yogi of the month, Colleen!

How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like?

I’ve been practicing yoga for about 10+ years. I play in a golf league with some friends at Five Iron. Kundalini yoga and 5Rhythms are also in the mix.

What brought you to Yoga Spark?

I was walking my dog during the pandemic when I first passed by the studio. I stopped in and spoke to the staff at the front desk, and they were so friendly and upbeat. They showed me the studio and it was clean- spotless really. After my first class I was hooked…the heat, the blacklight, the good vibes. One year, 100+ classes later and I still look forward to coming!

What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?

I feel like a different person after class. Everything shifts- mind, body, spirit.

Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

One of my favorite yoga quotes is, “you’re only as young as your spine is flexible”. The goal for me isn’t really about mastering the next arm balance pose, it’s just about keeping the spine and mind flexible.

What is your favorite song to flow to?

Morning Class – Aad Sach 3x, Oslee
Evening class – Mighty & High, Can’t Stop Won’t Stop

Do you have a favorite quote?

I’m a big Abraham Hicks fan so- ‘Be the energy you want to attract.’

What yoga pose do you love to practice right now?

I like tree because it immediately shows me how focused or scattered my mind is.

Tell us one non yoga factoid about you?

I was head coach of the women’s soccer team at American University before going into finance.

Meet our wonderful April Yogi of the Month, Breeanne!

Q: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?
A: I practiced Bikram before YogaSpark, on and off for maybe 5 years but I was never serious about yoga until I came to Spark.

Q: What brought you to YogaSpark?
A: My BFF took me to Provencal [a restaurant nearby] for my birthday. I saw the sign and thought it looked cool. I used to be a runner until May of last year when a bout with sciatica and hip impingement from my arthritis almost paralyzed me. This place saved me.

Q: What do you love about practicing hot power yoga?
A: I love the variety that Spark hot power yoga offers. The yoga teachers each have their own amazing style that is both supportive and intense. I love the "solitary community" of being on that mat with other yogis. The vibe in this place is so inspiring.

Q: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?
A: Symbiosis

Breeanne, we could not agree more that one of the best things about YogaSpark is our solitary community. Yoga is a personal practice, practiced together. Thank you for being part of our world!

Sam Burke is our awesome Yogi of the month for February. Check out more about her yoga journey here!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Sam: I’ve done yoga on and off for the past 12 years, but in the past year I really started to bring it to the next level and go about 2x each week.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark? 

Sam: One of my best friends had gone and loved your studio because of the intense heat, amazing teachers, spacious changing rooms and those cold towels after class.

Nikki: What's your favorite pose to practice right now and why?

Sam: Peaceful Warrior. I love how it stretches and elongates me from head to toe.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you? 

Sam: Opening. Working an office job, the hustle bustle of New York and this cold can really take a toll on the body. Yoga really allows me to open my mind and body to focus on myself and take a break for the everyday.

This January we spot-light a dedicated yogi that is such an important part of our community! Reach more about her yoga journey here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Leslie: I have been practicing yoga for 3 years. Additionally, I do strength training and I ride my horse as much as possible.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Leslie: I was looking for a studio that was hot, athletic yoga with great teachers and no drama. So, a friend recommended YogaSpark. Perfect match!

Nikki: How does yoga add to the rest of your life outside the hot room?

Leslie: So much of what I learn and practice in yoga influences the person I want to be in my life which is healthy, strong, compassionate, thoughtful, free of negativity, and to push myself out of my comfort zone as much as possible.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Leslie: Yoga is self-discovery.

Abby Williams has done several 2700 degree challenges and inspires us to remember that practice and all is coming! Read here about how her yoga practice helps balance out her mind and body.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Abby: I started practicing yoga in college as cross-training for ballet - it was a great way for me to strengthen my muscles while maintaining the flexibility dancing required, and reinforced the kinesthetic awareness that dance teaches. Since I graduated *several* years ago, I've stopped dancing, but yoga has remained a major part of my life. Now when I'm not getting sweaty on a mat, you can find me out for a run along the West Side Highway or up in Central Park.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Abby: I'd let my practice slip while I was training for a race, and was dealing with cranky running joints as a result, so was on the hunt for a studio. I live just a couple blocks away from YogaSpark, so popped in one afternoon to see what the studio was like. I knew it was the spot for me when I learned about the 2700 challenge - it was the perfect way to push myself to recommit. Two challenges later... here we are!

Nikki: You are also a dancer and a runner. As a super active person, how has yoga helped you?

Abby: Yoga is the only reason that I can physically get out of bed in the morning - I love my other activities, but ballet and running are both so high impact and so hard on the body. Yoga helps me keep everything in alignment and work out all the kinks I've created. Yin classes especially save me - and serve as a helpful reminder that not every workout has to be done at 100% capacity.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Abby: Release. Yoga is the only space I enter where I don't have a goal, a to do list, a person to answer to. It's just me and how I feel in that moment, and that is so freeing.

We are overjoyed to spotlight Jaffe Brensilver as our October Yogi of the Month! The dedication, strength, and energy she brings to the studio inspires us all. Read more about her yoga journey here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Jaffe: I have practiced yoga for close to 20 years. I also enjoy boxing workouts (non-contentiously), biking, and walking.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Jaffe: After practicing bikram for most of my yoga career, I decided that I needed another form of yoga to balance the continuity and structure of bikram. I knew I wanted the combination of new postures, flow and music to further explore my scope of practice.

Nikki: As a physical therapist, and lover of movement, you have such vast knowledge of the body. Why do you think having a consistent hot practice can be beneficial?

Jaffe: Heat plays an obvious role in helping to externally heat the body, while also helping to warm the soft tissue structures that assist in vital function. Hot yoga is beneficial for any body that desires to become more functional, by increasing mobility and stability at the muscle and joint level. With that said, I truly believe that the breath is where your internal heat resides and it is vital to any consistent yoga practice. External heat is critical in my own practice, but I believe any continuous yoga practice feeds the human body, mind and soul.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Jaffe: I think yoga is so incredibly beautiful. It has played the most intricate role in me becoming me. I am blessed with the ability to practice every day.

Carol has been a dedicated part of our Tribeca community since our doors opened. She is an annual member and truly inspires us every day! Read more about Carol's yoga journey here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Carol: I was first introduced to pregnancy yoga 21 years ago and did it for a few times and loved it. Then picked it back up about 8 years ago on and off until I found Yoga Spark; and yoga is my only form of exercise.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Carol: My teenage son’s friend told me about it! Raving about the cold tea tree oil at the end class. I was searching for hot yoga and voila!

Nikki: You have such a dedication to your practice. What advice would you give to a newer yogi looking to incorporate yoga into their life?

Carol: Find one essence that you love about yoga, be it breathing, poses, the community, glowing in the dark, the cold tea tree towel ... enjoy that special essence of the day.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Carol: Balance in mind, body and spirit

John Malucci is our inspiring Yogi of the Month for July. He uses his practice as a catalyst to balance the rest of his life. Read more about his yoga journey here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

John: I began practicing yoga last October at YogaSpark in Westchester, and I haven’t looked back since! YogaSpark has been my only yoga practice to date. When I don’t have time to make it to class I’ll fit in some interval training at home or when the weather’s nice you can find me out cycling or playing ultimate frisbee.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

John: A few things brought me to Yoga Spark. First, I was looking for a physical challenge that was relatively low-impact because my day-to-day physical demands for work made it hard to imagine running or lifting as a viable form of everyday exercise. Second, I was looking to improve on one of my weaknesses over the years, which has been my flexibility. Third, the hot studio felt especially great during the bitter cold winter months. Lastly, the Westchester studio happens to be minutes from my house!

Nikki: How does practicing yoga tie into the rest of your life?

John: Practicing yoga ties into my life by allowing me to better strike a balance between service to others and service to myself. My work is fast paced, and I am constantly providing customer service, assisting coworkers, and meeting deadlines. What my practice allows me to do is take an hour each day and physically and mentally take care of myself that way I feel good and I can keep up the good work!

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

John: A catalyst to pursue the other parts my of life.

This time of year we cannot get enough sunshine in our lives which is why we are spotlighting Victoria Lindenmeyer as your June Yogi of the Month! Read more here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Victoria: I just started yoga about 6 weeks ago! Ever since then, it has taken the cake for my favorite form of exercise, however, I do enjoy running and biking when it's sunny out.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Victoria: Honestly, I was having a really hard time at college and with friends, so I needed a place to go and get away for it all. I remembered looking up yoga places nearby and seeing YogaSpark, so I made a quick call to see if they had room in the next class and ran over. The moment I got there, I was surrounded by supportive and loving energy from everyone who works at YogaSpark! I never thought I’d find such an amazing, inspiring, and judgment-free community, let alone one that I could call family!

Nikki: You just finished a 2700 degree challenge (30 days of yoga!). What was the most challenging and most rewarding part of the challenge?

Victoria: The most challenging part is getting out of bed or getting home from work, and finding the motivation to go to the studio, rain or shine. I will say that the moment I put on my workout clothes, I’ve gotten through the hardest part of it all. As far as the most rewarding part, you really can’t beat the photo of your beautiful, sweaty self that gets to go on the Wall of Flame. Walking by that wall and knowing that one day I’ll be up on there too is what really kept me motivated through it all.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Victoria: Mentally, physically, and spiritually freeing

Though we are rolling into a new season we'd like to spot-light a tried and true yogi who truly lights up any space she is in. Carly Hackbarth is our awesome March Yogi of the Month! Read more about her yoga journey here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Carly: I have been practicing yoga consistently for 2.5 years now & I don’t like to do any other forms of exercise.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark and why do you enjoy the practice?

Carly: I came to YogaSpark because I changed jobs. I had a really hard time finding a studio I liked and tried them all out in the area. YogaSpark was the first one I practiced at where I felt connected. I was deeply missing my old yoga studio, but it only took me about 3 classes to fall in love with YogaSpark. What I enjoy about the practice here specifically is the way the instructors teach, providing hands on adjustments and constructively adding to my postures and flow. One of my favorite sayings from one of the instructors whose classes I take regularly is, “Your body, your choice,” which makes me feel empowered and in control of myself. My mindset has always been really individualistic and competitive, but I love people and being in relationship with others. I like how independent yoga is (you + your mat,) but how collective the energy is in the room with everyone else. The vibe is elevated when you vibe together.

Nikki: What do you feel are the benefits of yoga both physically and mentally?

Carly: How much time do you have? (LOL) Yoga is grounding. It is the one hour of peace I get per day. It has brought a sense of awareness into my life that I never had before. I do use it as my exercise because I enjoy it. Nobody has ever had to tell me, “you have to go to yoga,” instead I am telling people, “I want to go to yoga.” Yoga is not only with me on my mat, but Yoga is in my every day. It is applicable outside of the studio; the breath, the practice, the simple thought of just being. Yoga creates possibility.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Carly: Presence.

We are so thrilled to spot-light Rickie Broff this month as our yogi of the month! She certainly sparks-up our February!!! Check out more about her here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Rickie: I’ve been practicing yoga on and off for about 20 years. However, about two years ago I committed to my yoga practice with a lot more regularity and it has really helped me physically and spiritually. I alternate hot yoga with barre class. The combination of the two is a great way to build lean muscle and works for my body. As I get older, I want to be strong without bulking. I also find it helps to take a day off during the week.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Rickie: I love a hot room. Once I started at YogaSpark I was hooked. I love the instructors, they all have different qualities, each with his/her own style. The music gives me that extra push and makes working out fun and light- not as serious. The laid back atmosphere is a bonus.

Nikki: What is your favorite pose to practice and why?

Rickie: I love warrior 2. It makes me feel empowered, confident and like a total bad ass. However, each day I’m on the mat my body feels different. Some days I crave positions that will stretch my hamstrings and other days a good hip opening pose will completely de-stress me.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Rickie: Just breathe. I really try to take this mantra on and off the mat. When I’m feeling anxious, it allows me to think before I react. A yoga teacher once reminded our class that you can’t control other people as much as you want to...so it’s how you receive their behavior and process it that you can move on. I think about this all the time. It relates to breathing though a pose and any situation in life.

These two yogis sure do show us what it means to be the best yoga buddy ever! Read more here.

Jen's Questions:
Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Jen: I've been practicing yoga for maybe 5 years now? I started by tagging along with my twin sister to some of the Iyengar classes she goes to. I was so excited to see YogaSpark open in our neighborhood! I also love to run. I've found that the work that we do on breathing really helps me on runs. Yoga and running are great to do together because without yoga my muscles get too tight and unbalanced.

Nikki: What’s your favorite pose, and why?

Jen: I guess it depends on my mood. When I'm doing it right, I really love downward dog. I can feel the strength and energy really well in that pose. But I also love trying to do poses that are tough for me like half moon and other balancing poses. And of course I love child's pose.

Brad's Questions:
Nikki: What do you like most about practicing hot yoga?

Brad: I like how complete a workout it is. It's great for flexibility, cardio and strength (especially core strength). Its also is very meditative and relaxing. To me its a very rewarding and enjoyable way to stay healthy.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Brad: I would have to say surprising...and by that I mean that if you told me two years ago I would be going to yoga regularly I would have been shocked. However when YogaSpark opened I tried it, and really liked it, and now it's my main, and favorite, form of exercise.

Joint Questions:
Nikki: What brought y’all to YogaSpark? Did you take your first class together or individually?

Jen & Brad: This is Jen. We live in the neighborhood and used to live directly above YogaSpark. I took the first class. I scoped it out and then told Brad to come!

Nikki: We all need a good yoga-buddy. How does having your partner being your constant yoga buddy help your practice?

Jen & Brad: It definitely is more fun and motivating to go together. And while we often laugh about things during the class--like me pouring sweat and/or us falling out of poses, I think we appreciate feeling on the same page after practice.

This November we have the pleasure of spot-lighting Meredith Berman! We are truly inspired by this yogi and hope you will be too. Read more here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Meredith: I took my first yoga class about 20 years ago and I have been practicing yoga on and off ever since —with the last four years committing to a (almost) daily practice. I’m a bit of a workout junkie — I love the high from running, the peacefulness of swimming, the beauty of hiking and the excitement of exploring NYC while walking my dog.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Meredith: The heat --I love to sweat! Coming down to YogaSpark gets me out of my neighborhood — I enjoy the change of scenery and community.

Nikki: You just completed a 30 day challenge. Congrats! What did you enjoy most about the month?

Meredith: The subway! No, really, the thrill of committing to something and the feeling of accomplishment when completed.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Meredith: Two words ok? — Discovery and surrender.

For October we spotlight this strong mama, Gaby Balcarecel, as our Hot Yogi of the Month. She has been a huge part of our community, including being a part of the Karma Yoga Program. We couldn't be happier to share more of her story and yoga journey this month! Read more about her yoga journey here!!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Gaby: I tried Yoga for the first time 10 year since ago during my first pregnancy with my Son Anthony, I took Pre-natal Yoga classes and I can remember it being my favorite part of the day. I knew back then that Yoga brought something special to my life. I will try everything once, I have to be honest though you won’t find me working out at the gym very often but I do walk EVERYWHERE.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Gaby: Once both of my children were in school full time I finally had more free time to focus on myself , I thought doing the Karma program was such a great idea.

Nikki: What is the area of your life you feel like yoga has touched the most outside the hot room and why?

Gaby: The past 5 years have not been easy for myself and my family, we have had a lot of loss. Yoga has helped me to let go of things that I never thought I would have been able to before. It has opened my eyes to another part of myself that I didn’t know was there and I am very proud of that, its made me stronger not just physically but mentally and emotionally and the benefits of that spill over on to my family every day. I am extremely grateful.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Gaby: Keystone: Yoga has given me a sense of fulfillment and stability that I didn’t even realize was missing. Like the keystone in an arch it is the center that keeps me grounded.

Kendra always shows up with a smile on her face and brings an open and dedicated energy to the studio both on and off her mat! Read more about her yoga journey here!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Kendra: I've been practicing yoga for about 4 years. I decided to explore various studios around NYC after years of doing exclusively high impact boot camps and running. I still love a good boot camp, but I need to go to yoga at least 2-3 times per week to avoid injury and center myself.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Kendra: I walked by the YogaSpark TriBeCa location for a month or two before finally stepping inside. I had been practicing hot yoga with a single studio for more than a year and the style was starting to get stale. I was craving a hot class with great music and teachers who were free to express their individual style. I found that at YogaSpark and I haven't looked back since.

Nikki: You just got married, congrats! How did yoga fit into your life as you prepped for your wedding? How does it feel to come back to your practice after such a big life event?

Kendra: Thank you! Yoga played a massive role in prepping me for the wedding because I was able to sweat out so many of the frustrations that come along with planning a wedding in Italy. I found myself in class easily 5x per week, and did a special flow with my girlfriends during my bachelorette in upstate NY. I actually landed in NYC from Italy on a Friday afternoon a week after my wedding, and flowed with Christina and Megan on Saturday and Sunday. I even brought my brother and sister in law for their first ever yoga class! They loved it!

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Kendra: Acceptance- I used to think that I was "bad" at yoga because I wasn't naturally flexible. I always had an excuse for why I didn't need it. However, over the last few years I have found peace with my individual yogi journey. I'm learning to accept where I am on any given day, even if that means taking child's pose during Annie's Sunday morning sweatfest. I'm a work in progress and proud of how far I've come.

We are so excited to spotlight Teresa Chirinos as our August 2018 Hot Yogi of the Month! She is a dedicated Westchester yogi and brings such a wonderful attitude to the community and onto her mat! Check out more about Teresa's yoga journey here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Teresa: I have practiced yoga for 4 months. And I like to do spinning from time to time.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Teresa: I heard about it from a friend, Nicole Sheindlin. I saw how healthy and how flexible she looked and I believed that it was because of yoga. When she told me about it, I liked that it was close to my home and my work. And I also liked how it sounded because it was hot yoga, and I heard that doing yoga in a hot temperature helps the muscles be more flexible.

Nikki: How has your yoga practice affected your daily life?

Teresa: OMG, I recover a lot of my flexibility, I feel faster and less tired. I feel that yoga has also helped with the soreness that comes from my daily routine. It is something fun that I get to share with my family and friends, bragging about the new poses I have learned or never expected I could do! With yoga I discovered how amazing the human body is, how it needs maintenance, and I have found a new appreciation for my body. But the most important thing is the internal peace that I feel after each session, I feel how the body and mind are harmonized, it feels cleansing.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Teresa: Harmony between body, soul and mind.

Kelsey has been a part of the Karma Yoga Program, just came out of her 200hr Teacher Training and is now doing the Mentorship Program at YogaSpark! Check out more about her story here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Kelsey: I've practiced yoga for 5 amazing years - it's basically the only form of exercise I do regularly (unless you count running to catch the 2 train).

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Kelsey: I was intrigued by the blacklight experience, lived in the neighborhood and turned out to know a few of the teachers from my old hot yoga studio. It was meant to be! <3

Nikki: You are on your way to Med School, just finished your 200hr Yoga Training, and are currently doing a Mentorship at YogaSpark. Can you write a little about why yoga is such an important part of your personal and professional journey?

Kelsey: I wouldn't be where I am today without yoga. As a pre-medical student, it's easy to find yourself taking multiple-hour marathons in the library. On top of the studying the material, working with patients can be taxing! Yoga is my escape from work to reconnect with my mind, my body and my breath. Basically anytime I bring myself to the mat, I figure out something new about myself and my tendencies (physically AND mentally). When you're in the heat and folding your body into all of these shapes, it's the most self-reflective experience.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Kelsey: JOY!

For our June Hot Yogi of the Month we spot-light a yogi that has been with us pretty much since the beginning, Nicole Hoffman! Read more here.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Nicole: I took my first yoga class my freshman year in college, which was 30 years ago and have been practicing since! I also like to walk on a treadmill in the winter and walk outside in the summer.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Nicole: I was traveling to Northern Westchester to a hot class and 4 years ago a friend mentioned that a new hot studio had opened in Mamaroneck. It was love at first class for me which Lauren the owner happened to be teaching.

Nikki: You have been practicing with us for several years now. What would you say has been the biggest long-term benefit of having a consistent practice?

Nicole: For me the biggest benefit is that from practicing the repetition of poses, comes the release of tension and the building of strength, which promotes happiness, peace, and a sense of contentment.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Nicole: I have a word and a phrase that come to mind… The word would be Grace. The phrase would come from one of the amazing YogaSpark teachers who after a particularly uplifting class recently said, “Now go out and spread the love, it will come back to you tenfold.”

Just as the sun starts shining a bit warmer, we are excited to spot-light Annelise Nussbacher as our May Hot Yogi of the Month! Read more about her yoga journey.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Annelise: I’ve practiced yoga for two months, but it feels much longer. I try to come every weekday, before class. As for other exercise, I’ve been a bit of a collector. I did Zumba one summer, with my mom. I did CrossFit one fall. Etc. But nothing stuck until I started to practice yoga.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Annelise: Google. Just kidding! Though, I did find YogaSpark on Google. I came to YogaSpark because I needed a way out of my head, and what better way to do that than by getting in touch with my body and with my breath?

Nikki: You are currently in school and are in the middle of prepping to apply for Grad School. How has your practice become a part of your very busy, awesome life?

Annelise: Yoga is like my chance to check out for an hour each day, and check in on myself. Between classwork, my thesis, graduation, moving out of the dorms and into my first NYC apartment (Yay!), and applications for Grad School, it's so easy to become overwhelmed. But when I come back to my mat, it’s like none of that exists. It’s just me, and my breath, and some awesome yogis. If I can make it through Matt’s forearm planks, I can make it through graduation!

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Annelise: Lean in. Whatever it is—the pose, the heat, the discomfort—just lean into it. That’s how you get through, and that goes for more than just yoga.

April brings us this much closer to warmer weather so it seemed appropriate to spot-light the sunshine-y Stephanie Maldacker as the Hot Yogi of the Month! Read more on Stephanie's journey!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Stephanie: I've practiced yoga for about four years but really got into it after my first class at YogaSpark two years ago. If I'm not practicing yoga, I'll either be running outdoors or in some type of HIIT class with my team #thesweatlfe

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Stephanie: Lululemon. Working for a company that is so rooted in community, I felt like I needed to explore what yoga in a studio would be like as opposed to my home practice. I was SO nervous to take my first class and now I'm so grateful that I did because YogaSpark is my second home!

Nikki: You have such a beautiful practice. Do you have a favorite pose? And if so, why?

Stephanie: Aw, thank you! My favorite pose definitely varies from practice to practice. I love any warrior sequence and working my way into the fullest expression of the pose through binding, arm balancing or inverting. I love seeing the progress that can happen when you allow your breath to do the work!

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Stephanie: In my experience yoga is a learning process. When I'm on the mat, I learn about myself, my body and my purpose. It's my time to understand how to not take myself so seriously, and go with the flow!

Our Tribeca crew is fierce and our March Yogi of the Month is no exception! Linda Sannesman has brought her vibrant, strong, and positive energy with her since day one and we can't get enough of her!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Linda: Before I found YogaSpark last spring, I didn’t really enjoy yoga that much. I thought it was too slow, too spiritual, not very dynamic, and with little workout effect. Then YogaSpark happened. It’s fun, fast, hot, playful, challenging and 100% sweat-dripping. I see rapid progress and improvements. Hot yoga has made me stronger, leaner, more flexible and more self-aware. As a health influencer, I work out almost every day. My job includes testing health trends and new studios, and reviewing workouts. I like to get a good mix of exercises every week, my favorites are hot yoga, pilates, barre, spinning and swimming.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Linda: I was curious to try this new neighborhood studio. I’m so glad I did. This place has got me hooked. The classes always give new challenges as all the instructors have their unique style, so it never gets boring. And! YogaSpark seems to attract my kind of tribe, it’s a strong community of positive, happy, healthy people!

Nikki: You are very active in your community both and an influencer and, of course, as a mom! How has YogaSpark fit into your fun, busy life?

Linda: Hot Yoga has become an important part of my morning routine. After taking the kids to school I head to YogaSpark. It’s 100% me-time, challenging myself and my limitations, always ending up with a smile, ready for a new day.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Linda: HotYoga is my fix. Battling my own strength and flexibility in the dark heat, does great stuff for my health and happiness.

We are in the thick of our winter season and getting our projects rolling for the new year. What better time to spotlight a yogi who inspires dedication, fun, and high energy!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Rachel: I discovered yoga about 13 years ago and was immediately hooked. I also love to take barre classes. I get my cardio workouts from running and the stairmaster.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Rachel: I practiced yoga regularly when I lived in Manhattan but took a break when I moved to Westchester in ‘08, mostly because couldn’t find a rigorous vinyasa class near me here in Larchmont. I initially came to YogaSpark to support Lauren (the owner and my very good friend) but I come back religiously because I love it! It’s a great workout and the studio has such a feel good vibe!

Nikki: You’re also a runner. How do you find that doing yoga has impacted your running and visa versa?

Rachel: Running and yoga provide such a balance for me. I crave cardio and get that from running, but I also need the stretch and core strength which I get from yoga.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Rachel: Energetic

Whether he's bringing his wit to our Tribeca 6:30a classes or stopping by to say hi, Don has rocked it out since day one!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Don: About 3 years, but only regularly since March of this year when I started YogaSpark-ing. In addition to YogaSpark, I do strength training and boxing. I found that YogaSpark is the perfect complement to my other activities. My first thought was that it would be good for my “active rest” days but to my pleasant surprise I quickly realized this was one serious workout!

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Don: I had trained with Julia at a prior gym and through social media I knew she was doing this hot yoga up in Westchester. When I saw that Julia was back in the neighborhood I popped into YogaSpark since I work in Tribeca! The rest is the stuff of legend.

Nikki: You like to practice early in the day. What do you enjoy about a morning practice and how does it affect your day?

Don: All the best yogis practice in the morning. Nothing better than getting up and being in final savasana before everyone else is even awake! Fantastic way to start the day with the work done and the mind clear and refreshed.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Don: Killer.

Lisa has been a part of our community for years now and we couldn't be happier to share more of her story this month!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Lisa: I’ve been practicing yoga on and off since college, and for years I ran 25-30 miles a week. Now it’s 100% hot yoga - and trying to get in my 10,000 steps a day!

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Lisa: I was transitioning out of working full-time and felt a huge void in my life. My friend did the 30 Day Challenge at Yoga Spark. I’d done yoga. But hot yoga? For 30 days? I didn’t think I could do it, but it was exactly the kind of physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual experience I was craving. Yoga Spark helped me put structure back into my day, and feel centered and powerful once again.

Nikki: You have been practicing and YogaSpark for awhile and we love it! What do you love about your practice at YS and how has it affected your life?

Lisa: Where do I start? I love the bold red, black and white Yoga Spark aesthetic, the unpretentious vibe and the warmth and encouragement of the teachers. The grace and commitment of my fellow yogis continues to inspire me, and every time I step into the heat of the studio I feel my worries literally melt away. But I think it was the ice-cold tea tree oil towels that sealed the deal.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Lisa: It is hard to pick one. The dictionary defines LIFE FORCE as “the force or influence that gives something its vitality or strength - the spirit or energy that animates living creatures; the soul.” There you go - Life force. xoxo

This October we are spotlighting Liam Robb O’Hagan who comes to his mat with dedication, an open mind and a long-neglected body. He has recently published a blog about his experiences in the yoga world (read more below) and inspires us all!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Liam: I seriously took up yoga in March. I had dabbled in it before, but I’ve reached the age where I feel I need to look after myself better. I’d been doing a lot of running and the first signs of plantar fasciitis were creeping up on me. I decided I needed to do some more stretching and yoga seemed like it would achieve that and give me some other benefits. Six months later, the plantar fasciitis is under control, and I ran/hiked a half marathon up Pikes Peak in Colorado in August. Training for that was like training for a marathon so I feel yoga has kept me in some sort of exercise equilibrium.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Liam: My friend recommended it. I liked the idea of getting a good sweat up. It’s the reason my father preferred tennis to golf and I get the benefits of yoga while feeling like I’ve had a real workout. Thanks to the Mind-Body Online app, I’ve taken yoga classes in New Zealand and Colorado, but I like coming home to the heated room and the scented cold towel

Nikki: What inspired you to write a blog post about your yoga experience and what have you learned from bringing this kind of awareness to your practice?

Liam: Umm. My blog post is quite self-deprecating. The theme is essentially if you can’t win at yoga why do I feel like a loser? It probably does not project the positive energy that one would normally associate with yoga, but hopefully people find it amusing and maybe some other tight middle-aged will be inspired to give it a go. As for awareness, all I’m really aware of when I practice is that I’m stiff, sweaty and my breath is out of control. The spiritual dimension is not apparent yet.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Liam: Each class is like unwinding a 10-mile hike or run

New season = New Yogi of the Month! Read more about how Maria lights up her mat through the seasons.

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Maria: I’ve dabbled in it a few times years ago, but didn’t end up getting into it consistently until last year. This November the 13th will be my one year yoga-versary! I also like to take Zumba classes, have taken aerial yoga and want to begin exploring Pilates as well.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Maria: My friend Lauren is the reason I found YogaSpark. She told me how amazing it feels and with the motivational help of the 2700 degree monthly challenges the studio offers I was able to keep a consistent yoga routine and discovered that Lauren was right! Besides the physical benefits the studio brings me, my favorite is when we’re in Savasana and that cold tea tree oil towel falls on my forehead; that’s when I know, mentally and physically, that I made myself better than I was just 60 minutes earlier.

Nikki: What is your favorite part about practicing in the heat? Do you feel the heat brings a different element for you?

Maria: Absolutely! I’ve been to other yoga studios that are also amazing and bring a more spiritual element to the practice, but for me there is something kickass about the heat. I feel I’m able to be more flexible and it gives me a sensation of empowerment. It’s amazing what our sweat glands can do for us! I never thought being drenched in sweat could feel so good.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Maria: Yoga is the element in my daily life that keeps me centered and sane.

Tanya has been with YogaSpark for many years and her pure joy and kindness has us SO excited to spotlight her for the month of August! Thanks Tanya for brining your yoga to the studio!!!!

August Yogi Of the Month:
In August we want to celebrate one of our tried and true yogis, Tanya Priesser! She brings such a positive light with her onto her mat and is such a huge part of our community!
Read more about her below:

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Tanya: I started practicing about 11 years ago before my daughter was born with Bikram. In addition to yoga I stand up paddleboard regularly, weight train and I like to indoor rock climb with my daughter now.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Tanya: The candlelight class! When I read about the candlelight class approximately 4 years and that it was power yoga with fun music, I was immediately intrigued and after the first class I was hooked.

Nikki: You have been practicing with us for awhile now. What is your favorite part of the hot practice and do you find it affects your daily life?

Tanya: My favorite part is the energy that it generates both physically and mentally. There is nothing as revitalizing as practicing at Yoga Spark- it's incredible! The balance of the physical rigor while in class, the enjoyment that comes from the music and the energy of the teachers and then the sense of accomplishment and peace afterwards is unlike anything i have ever felt.
Yoga spark has become a sanctuary for me and I have personally grown from being a part of the yoga spark community. I feel physically and mentally stronger with an embodied sense of peace and grace. Yoga has helped me to become a graceful warrior.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Tanya: The quieter you become the more you hear and learn.

In April we honor one of our SweatJunkies that has not only been practicing with us forEVA... but is also a part of our KarmaCrew! Gina Greco!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Gina: I’ve been actively practicing yoga for 18 months. I love Running and strength training. Most recently getting into Acroyoga.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark all those years ago?

Gina: Of course the talk around town!!! And also felt I needed to spark my daily routine up a bit!! While trying to calm my mind as well.

Nikki: Why did you get involved in the Karma Program and how has it affected you and your practice?

Gina: Well, I did the first week unlimited- addicted after the first class. Came back 4 more times within that week. I was intrigued by the philosophy of YogaSpark. I wanted to learn more than just the physical practice. Such an amazing vibe from all the teachers and other karmas. It was definitely what I needed and wanted in my life.

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Gina: Throughout my yoga journey one word that has been a constant for me is ownness.
For that 1 hour on my mat I belong to myself. There's a lot of vulnerability, risk and oddly a sense of safety that comes with that territory.
It's an amazing feeling when you've nailed a pose. You take that risk, you feel vulnerable and once you realize you're in it and you're inhaling and exhaling safety sets in with that yoga breath.
It's just sparking awesome!!!

We thought it was time to honor an awesome TriBeCa yogi, Randi Sidikaro!

Nikki: How long have you practiced yoga and what other forms of exercise do you like to do?

Randi: Not very long! I practiced yoga about 7 years ago, after my daughter was born but I stopped practicing for many years and did other types of workouts. I also do boxing and kickboxing, strength training and cardio.

Nikki: What brought you to YogaSpark?

Randi: I watched the YogaSpark studio being built from my window across the street. I had to try it - I just didn't know it was going to be HOT. Initially, I was intimidated but now I LOVE IT!

Nikki: Can you give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Randi: My yoga practice is a time for stillness. Each practice is a journey for me and I am forced to let everything go and focus on living in that moment.

In honor of Valentine’s day we are sparking it up with our first, EVER, couple Yogi of the Month: Lauren Chernick & Aaron Fischman.

Nikki: When did each of you start practicing at YogaSpark? Was it at the same time or different and who brought who to the studio?

Lauren: I started at YogaSpark first. A friend of mine got really into hot yoga in the city so I started to look around for a place here in Westchester. That is how I found YogaSpark and introduced it to Aaron soonafter.

Nikki: What is your favorite part about coming to yoga together?

Aaron: It is a great opportunity to exercise together which is something we very rarely get to do. Plus, despite the fact that we both go at are own pace, we are both on the same level afterwards, in both body and mind.

Lauren: For starters, it is a break from our kids. But, more than that, I love to see Aaron really engaged in his practice and stretching himself both physically and mentally. He is so much happier afterwards. We both are. Most of the time we do not get to YogaSpark together--but we make it a priority that Aaron gets there at least once a weekend. I think part of being a "Yoga Couple" is making time to make it happen, even when activities, work, and even sleep seems to say otherwise.

Nikki: Can you each give a word or phrase that describes yoga to you?

Aaron: Energizing

Lauren: Calming

And our hot yogi of the month is Heather Smith! She's super cool and we love having her on the mat... happy December yogis!

Nikki: When did you start practicing at YogaSpark and how did it affect your practice?

Heather: I only started practicing at YogaSpark around 3 months ago, when my youngest child began school. I really wanted to use the time I finally had for myself to build my level of fitness, and YogaSpark combines the benefits of yoga (flexibility and equanimity) with a dynamic physicality that keeps me feeling challenged.

Nikki: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?

Heather: I'm not sure that I can pick a yoga pose that is my favorite, but I do love what I consider the “culmination” pose in every class. I love it when we spend an hour building the heat and flexibility required to make a shape with our bodies that would have been impossible just 60 minutes before.

Nikki: If you could describe yoga in one word what would it be and why?

Heather: Progress. I love how, in practicing yoga, there’s always more. You can challenge yourself every day to do more, and do it better. There is a sense of accomplishment in finding you can easily do something you struggled with before, and in yoga there are so many of these “small victories”.

Summer is still hot and so is our amazing hot yogi of the month! Rachel just finished her 2700 challenge and rocked it out! We are so proud to have her as a part of our community!

As we roll into changing seasons we honor a yogi who has challenged herself to the 2700 degree challenge this past month. Elise has been on her mat day in and day out and her smile and awesome tattoo brings us so much joy!

October hot yogi of the month is Sara Marty! She's super sweet and definitely someone you wanna meet.

Meet Ian, our November hot yogi of the month! He's absolutely awesome... check out more about him

Nikki: When did you start practicing at YogaSpark and how did it affect your practice?
Ian: I have been practicing at YogaSpark for a couple of years but made a stronger commitment back in May of this year to make yoga a regular part of my life.

Nikki: What is your favorite yoga pose and why?
Ian: Savasana of course! More seriously, High Lunge because my hip flexors are chronically tight and that pose gets right in there and is a nice balancing challenge. Also, Crow as this was a position I never thought I
could do until I was able to start doing it recently.

Nikki: If you could describe yoga in one word what would it be and why?
Ian: Fusion because Yoga fuses strength training, stretching, meditation and mindfulness (and a lot of sweating).