Something that inspires me is Joseph Pilates’ philosophy about fitness. He believed that “physical fitness is the first requisite to happiness”. Yes, happiness! And he designed his exercise system of Contrology, aka The Pilates Method, for the “complete coordination of body, mind and spirit”. What a contrast to the fitness industry that wants you to believe that the goal of exercise is limited to weight loss or trying to look like the “hottest” celebrities and fitness influencers. I prefer Joseph Pilates’ holistic approach to fitness because it’s far easier to make exercise a lifestyle habit when your primary goal is to feel good so that you can live your life to the fullest! 

My theme word for 2023 is “fulfilled”. That word makes me pause and remember that I am the one who gets to create my purpose, define my dreams and live in a way that brings me joy.

Summer weather makes me feel like I’m ready to come out of hibernation and live my best life. It makes this introvert wanna be social, explore the city, meet new people and have new experiences. And if I could, I’d spend the majority of my day outside; stationing myself under a tree in Fort Greene park to teach Pilates on Zoom. In between sessions I’d indulge in one of my favorite hobbies; people-watching while making up their backstories. Or revisiting my urge to spin poi again. 

Something I learned about myself in 2021 is that, in some areas of my life, I still operate from a place of unhealthy fear. And when I operate from that space, I make unhealthy choices for myself. Ironically, FEAR is one of my greatest motivators. I’m an aerial artist that’s afraid of heights, for god’s sake!