n. A specialized structure of the upper leading edge of a bird’s wing that consists of a tuft of short, stiff flight feathers attached to the movable first wing digit corresponding to the thumb and that facilitates flight, landing, and maneuverability at slow speeds.
While easy to overlook, the alula is essential to a modern bird’s aerodynamics. — Tom Walters
Alula Collective is a merging of individuals and modalities to cultivate a healthy, more joyful life. Like nature, life is full of opposing forces working to disrupt our delicately balanced rhythms.
Here at Alula, we’ve got a few techniques that better integrate the polarities of life so that you too can maneuver through life a little more gracefully.
Why yoga?
Because it encompasses so much. The human body is an incredibly powerful thing. Yoga is too. I believe that through the movement of our body and breath, we have the ability to change so much — physically and mentally. I have felt it. I have seen it.
Where did you learn all your yoga things?
My first hatha yoga class was with my mom almost 20 years ago. I ended up back in school for my Masters in Nutrition and Applied Physiology and Registered Dietitian License. Then, I became a personal trainer and studied all sorts of different forms of movement. After many years, I finally did a 200 hour in Vinyasa Yoga. I didn’t really want to teach it, I just wanted to explore it. Then, I found Katonah Yoga (founded by Nevine Michaan) and everything made sense. I have been studying it for the last 8 years and continue to study this as well as other practices that help me understand more about myself and the human collective.
What can we expect from your classes?
We measure the poses and then map them using our neurology as well as our imagination. We practice consciously with a community that supports us, that challenges us, and that changes us. And, sometimes, there’s a little sound therapy at the end.
Why yoga?
Yoga is a rhythmic and intuitive dance partner. It moves with you. It listens to your body and adjusts to both support and confront you. It can heal you physically, and yoga can absolutely heal you mentally. Yoga has supported me for nearly a decade. When I needed physical healing, yoga appeared. When I needed emotional healing yoga remained. I teach in order to help people live better through yoga. I want everyone to experience the same support and healing that I have.
Where did you learn all your yoga things?
After 7 years of practicing Bikram yoga exclusively, I ventured out into the great big vinyasa world. I took a Sacred Geometry Vinyasa workshop with my teacher, Benjamin Sears, and I was hooked. I’m constantly inspired by his ever-evolving methods, work ethic, and teaching style. Studying Katonah yoga has brought insight into my body AND the ability to see into others.
What can we expect from your classes?
In my classes, we use the proportions of the body to help define the shape of the postures and guide meditation. We will spend time in the postures, where we can really focus on the details, and therapeutically address often neglected parts of the body. Through a vinyasa style flow, my classes uncover weaknesses and give you the tools to turn them into strengths. We build strength and increase flexibility while discovering more awareness of purpose and function in our bodies.
Why yoga?
Yoga is the why! The practice has given me so many amazing tools with which to learn and receive new knowledge about myself and the world around me. I hope to share this gift with all of my students.
Where did you learn all your yoga things?
I completed my RYT-200 at a small studio in East Dallas, and have been lucky to learn from some really great teachers. I am just beginning my journey as a teacher, and will forever be learning!
What can we expect from your classes?
A supportive space where, together, we will explore the postures - with a focus on integrating mind, body, and breath. There will be plenty of time in each posture to find your own center, connect with your breath, and realize your own potential.
Why Yoga?
Yoga was a natural path for me after my first few years as a Physical Therapist. It allowed me not only the ability to heal myself, but also the ability to help others learn how to become more self aware and heal their own bodies without the constraints of the medical model I work in with my PT practice. In that way it offers me balance not only in my own life through my practice but in my career too.
Where did you learn all your yoga things?
Originally I trained in a system that was heavily influenced by Tibetan Kung Fu at American Power Yoga. I continued on for years studying the Kung Fu system which includes Tai Chi as well. For the past 6 months I've been very focused on studying the Katonah method with Christy as well as studying the material online and anywhere that I can get my hands on it. With a background in Physical Therapy, I love the healing methods that come from Katonah yoga.
What can we expect from your classes?
Focus on building self awareness with alignment and posture so there is a framework to bring with you to any future class, even if I never see you again. 🙂 I strive to create a safe place for those that join me where you can feel comfortable to be yourself and show your personality while I show mine, authenticity is best.
Why pilates?
When I first became a massge therapist, I was woefully unprepared for the physical nature of the work. I had no consistent movement or exercise practice and was essentially a brain on legs. Needless to say, my first year in the business was painful! Luckily, I met a Pilates Teacher at a gym where I was hired to provide massage and began taking her classes. I noticed a very quick improvement in my back pain and my endurance levels at work through doing what appeared to be the most simple and basic exercises. Over the years I have tried many styles of exercise but I would always come back to Pilates. I love how accessible this method is - no matter your age, size or ability - and that with consistent practice over time a genuine, lasting physical transformation can take place. I’ve experienced it first hand and I’ve seen it in many clients!
Where did you learn all your techniques?
I completed a 500 hour Classical Pilates Teacher Training program through BodyTonic Pilates Gymnasium in Brooklyn. My favorite teacher there is a super energetic Brazilian dancer, so she’s who I’m usually trying to channel when I instruct people.
What can we expect from your classes?
A good workout!
Why yoga?
Yoga is like coming home and going on an adventure all at the same time. For me, it has become an opportunity, invitation, and reminder to question, explore, and practice what it means to be human.
Where did you learn all your yoga things?
Life! I also completed my 200hr. yoga teacher training in Máncora, Perú in 2016, am an NASM certified personal trainer, and have delighted in participating in various workshops, trainings, and retreats. #alwaysastudent
What can we expect from your classes?
Connection. Exploration. Intention. Repetition. We will move energy...with effort and grace. We will consider why we do what we do. We will acknowledge and embrace where we are at. We will honor ourselves and one another as we practice together.