September Yogi of the Month

Maria Caligiuri

September brings in a lot of transition to all of our lives both in routine and in seasons. This September we want to honor one of our grounded yogis who is a true yogi through the season!

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.