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Click on the teachers name to see their bio: |
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Natalie | Jeanne | Danielle | Megan | Amy | Erika | Valerie | Kourtney | Andrea | Chris | Alex | Regina | Shanti| | Starla | Nicole | Briana | Steve | Rebecca | Devon | Lynn | Jill | Regiane |
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Natalie Mirsky
Founder / Director |
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As a classically trained ballet dancer Natalie Mirsky first utilized Pilates techniques to enhance her own dance training and quickly discovered its superior rehabilitative benefits. She then began formal training in Pilates and was certified in 2001.
Seeing the potential of Pilates for rehabilitation, Ms. Mirsky worked with Physicians and Physical Therapists, helping to heal patients with Pilates techniques adapted for rehabilitation. During that time she was among the first Pilates professionals to work with disc replacement patients during the surgery’s clinical trials.
Gaining recognition in the Los Angeles medical community for her innovative approach to post-op rehabilitation, Ms Mirsky founded BodyWellness in 2004. The reputation of her work grew and BodyWellness began receiving regular referrals from The Spine Institute at St. John’s Medical Center and The Pain Center at Cedars Sinai. In 2006 BodyWellness became an authorized Medicare and health care provider.
As the Founder and Managing Director of BodyWellness, Natalie achieved the vision of combining traditional Physical Therapy with the unique benefits of Joseph Pilates exercises. This combination proved to be successful in bringing patients and clients to new levels of healing and strength.
Today the focus of BodyWellness is to gather the different styles of Pilates under one roof and to make those styles accessible to a broader clientele, utilizing the style most appropriate to the client’s needs. BodyWellness offers everything from Classical Pilates to rehabilitative forms based on the Pilates method.
Natalie Mirsky holds a BFA in Dance from CalArts, and is certified in Pilates and GYROTONIC®.
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Jeanne Rosato
Pilates Instructor |
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After completion of the Fitness Instructor Certification program from UCLA Extension and being privately employed for years, Jeanne completed her Pilates Certification with Kim Lee in 1992. In an early partnership with Ron Fletcher, a direct student of Joseph Pilates, Lee was among those initially responsible for promoting Pilates-based “ Contrology ” on the west coast. Some of Jeanne's other Pilates teachers were: Steve Giordano, Siri Dharma Galliano, Jillian Hessle, Colleen Glen, and Beth Clark.
While living on O'ahu, Hawai'i from 1986-1989, Jeanne was a regular on BASIC TRAINING — a television fitness series shot at exotic locations on the island. Jeanne also participated in CONQUER FORT BOYARD— a pilot for a fitness competition television program based on Fort Boyard, off the coast of La Rochelle, France. Jeanne's overall background of athletic experience includes gymnastics and dance training, four years' study of Tae Kwon Do, rock climbing, spinning, weight training, running, hiking, Pilates and racquet games. Jeanne specializes in program design, core conditioning, body sculpting and Pilates, as well as strength and flexibility training.
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Danielle Licht
Pilates Instructor |
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Danielle is a bright and charismatic teacher. She has her Masters in Spiritual Psychology with a concentration in Conscious, Health and Healing. She is the founder of ‘Enlighten', a business facilitating clients in physical practices and inner wellness and radiant health. Danielle is a professional dancer, and has classical training in jazz and ballet. She currently dances in a modern dance company and is pursuing her own choreography projects. Danielle is also a certified Ashtanga, Anusara Yoga teacher and she earned her Pilates certification through Pilates Sports Center. Her Pilates practice is based in both East and West coast techniques, and she caters uniquely to each client. Danielle is enthusiastic to be part of the BodyWellness team, to provide health, fitness and personal empowerment!
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Megan Quinn
Pilates Instructor |
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In 2006, Megan became a Pilates instructor in Santa Barbara, CA, where she has lived since 2005. After taking just one Pilates lesson, immediately understanding and feeling the benefits (not to mention, loving it!) she got certified. Megan is originally from the Chicago area and received her degree in Business Management at the University of Iowa. After taking some time to travel the world, Megan decided not enter the corporate world and decided to pursue a career in the fitness industry. Pilates is the perfect compliment to her active lifestyle giving her the strength and flexibility to enjoy hiking, swimming, cycling, snowboarding and many other physical activities.
Having recently relocated to Santa Monica, Megan plans to continue teaching Pilates and motivating others to improve their posture, increase flexibility and gain the strength and confidence to help with daily activities. Keeping the goals of her clients in mind, she focuses on giving a full body workout in every session.
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Amy Aceto
Pilates Instructor |
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Amy Aceto came to Pilates from a background in fashion design and a passion for swimming. She discovered Pilates while searching for a way to address her lower back and neck pain. In 2009, she decided to become an instructor and became certified at Pilates Sports Center through Pilates Studio City in Studio City, CA. Amy has her own line of swimwear, Amy Elise Swimwear, sold in upscale boutiques. She applies her design experience and her creativity to her Pilates classes... making every class unique, fast-paced, challenging and fun!
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Erika Quinn
Pilates Instructor |
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Erika was first introduced to Pilates through her study of classical ballet and modern dance. Years later, after hanging up her dancing shoes, she began taking Mat classes while living abroad as a way to improve her French language skills. Seeing the positive benefits of this form of mind-body exercise and aching to return to a more physical lifestyle, she became increasingly interested in both perfecting the repertoire and in teaching.
After relocating to Los Angeles in 2007, Erika decided to begin training to become a Pilates instructor and received her full certification through STOTT Pilates. She is passionate about the amazing effects Pilates has on the body and sincerely believes it is great for everyone -- whether you're a seasoned athlete, recovering from an injury or just in need of a little exercise TLC.
Erika holds a BA from Barnard College in Sociology and Dance, an MA in French Cultural Studies from Columbia University, and is a certified Pilates and Spin instructor.
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Valerie Lewis
Spinning® Instructor |
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Valerie is an outdoor endurance cyclist who loves nothing more than long rides with lots of hills! You might see her climbing Latigo Canyon Drive, Topanga Canyon, Mulholland, or Stunt Road, or participating in the "King of the Mountain" and other century rides. Valerie is also a member of the Grand Masters Cycling team. Valerie is here to do what she loves best and keep you inspired as we burn the fat and build the lean muscle we all want. Your ride will be a BODYBLAST!
See you in the studio.
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Kourtney Kaas
Yoga Instructor |
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Kourtney Kaas came to yoga as an actor/dancer with a day job in Corporate America, a very busy brain and a stressed out body. She quickly came to love the freedom and space that arise from the merging of movement, breath and flow. The time spent on her mat and the clarity and peace that followed her home from class began to influence every aspect of her life in a positive way. Her practice allowed her to heal her body, truthfully look at how she was spending time and energy, and slowly helped guide her onto a new path.
Kourtney brings 12 years of yoga practice, 20+ years of dance and movement theatre, Alexander Technique, Reiki and other energetic healing modalities to her teaching. This experience combined with a passion for yoga and her joyful freedom of movement infuse a practice that encourages students to explore the physical practice in a playful way. Fueled by breath, safe and creative sequencing and an eclectic blend of music, her classes are challenging and move fluidly in the direction of surrender and stillness. Kourtney teaches at several studios as well as offering private yoga/energy work and on-site corporate classes. Originally from Minnesota, she holds a BFA in Theatre and Dance from the University of Minnesota and an MFA in Acting from UCLA. She is currently an Ambassador for lululemon athletica.
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Andrea Guardino
Spinning® Instructor |
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As a recognized face in the fitness community, Andrea Guardino's appetite for yoga and spin is infectious. Andrea's playful mixture of challenging classes with her lovable personality is the recipe for a truly inspiring class. A former cheerleader, swimmer and triathlete she now focuses on mind and body. She had participated in many races, century rides and teacher trainings to help you with your body type and temperament. These practices include Vinyasa, Flow, Restorative & Yin Yoga styles. Andrea has studied under yogis such as Rod Stryker, Max Storm, Bryan Kest, Lisa Walford and Jasmine Leib. Having more than 10 years of practice to groups and one-on-one classes, she brings an upbeat energy, offering clear instruction and philosophy that makes for a great combination.
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Chris Reuter
Pilates Instructor |
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Chris Ann was born and raised in Southern California and has been practicing Pilates for more than five years. After seeing the impact and awareness that it has brought to her own body and mind, Chris Ann received a certification from Body Arts and Science International. She is also certified in Pre/Post natal Pilates. Chris Ann strives to help her clients reach their optimal health and fitness goals by meeting their individual needs. Pilates is a passion for her and she believes Pilates is a way of life. Before Chris Ann received her pilates certification she completed her journeyman program at Makeup Designory and has over 8 years of experience as a professional makeup artist in the industry. |
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Alex Newell
Yoga Instructor |
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Alex Newell fell in love with yoga from the moment she stepped foot in her first hot yoga class in early 2007. Before long, she received her 500-hour Yoga Alliance Certification through Sunstone Yoga in Dallas, TX. There, she was a member of the teacher training staff, specializing in teaching advanced anatomy and physiology, in addition to teaching full time. Soon after, she became certified through Power Pilates to teach Pilates mat classes as well. In the fall of 2008, inspired by a thirst to know more about the body and how it works, she began her 9-month internship to become a Muscle Activation Techniques™ Specialist, earning her certification in June 2009. She is constantly expanding her knowledge on the body and its mechanics, through studies into neurophysiology, advanced foot mechanics, and advanced anatomy, and recently began teaching weekend workshops on advanced anatomy and biomechanics as they relate to yoga. Most recently, inspired by a desire to deepen the spiritual side of her practice, she has embarked on a journey towards certification in Anusara Yoga, studying under founder John Friend and senior teachers BJ Galvan, Darren Rhodes, and Christina Sell. By bringing all of these bodies of knowledge together, her unique style of teaching helps guide students into a safe and effective journey through yoga and its many benefits. She looks forward to embarking on this journey with you!
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Regina Wilson
Spinning® Instructor |
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Regina’s roots have grown in Los Angeles for over 10 years. Originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, she now lives in Malibu with her husband and 4 children. She’s taught Spinning for over 5 years since becoming Johnny G certified. Regina believes that integrating exercise into a busy work and family life is a must and that wherever you happen to be on the spectrum of fitness, showing up for your body is key to improving the quality of our physical, mental and spiritual lives. She encourages anyone to try Spinning. “I always say ‘It’s your ride,’ because although it’s a group class, anyone at any fitness level can partake in the class and benefit from staying on the bike and you will get results that can be seen and felt." Regina always challenges her students while guiding them through a safe, effective and fun workout. Regina enjoys a career as a television editor and voice-over artist while remaining gratefully devoted to her family of 6.
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Shanti Kelley
Yoga Instructor |
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Shanti has been practicing yoga for over 17 years with some of the world's
most accomplished senior teachers; studying Ashtanga Vinyasa, Flow Vinyasa, and, most recently, Smartflow with Annie Carpenter. She has been teaching yoga for 12 years, honing a sequencing style based on the Vedic concept of Tapas, or heat, and intelligently incorporating specific alignment
instructions. Her classes are safe, strong, and nurturing. |
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Starla Osborne
Spinning® Instructor |
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Starla comes to BodyWellness with 20+ years of fitness experience. She was personally trained by Johnny G himself, the founder of Spinning. Starla has trained and competed with the best in the industry, including cycling, triathlons, kickboxing, boxing and personal training. She began a second career in 2007, taking her from the fitness industry into the corporate world. Starla's love of teaching has brought her out of retirement to join the team at BodyWellness. Today she is an avid road cyclist both short and long distance. Starla focuses her class on taking the outdoor ride inside!
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Nicole Sherman
Yoga Instructor |
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Nicole Sherman received her yoga teacher certification on the big island of Hawaii, Kona. A dream and life-changing experience, she experienced her practice on the lava rocks, learning to become grounded and in sync with the earth around her. Nicole was diagnosed with scoliosis as a child, so she has learned to focus her practice on proper alignment and posture. She is originally from sunny south Florida and has a degree from Florida Atlantic University in acting, set design and studio art painting. Combining her artistic abilities and passions into one, Nicole has finally created her own yoga t-shirt company called Honu Yoga. She loves teaching and inspiring others to find the strength, peace and spirit within. |
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Briana Masson
Pilates Instructor
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Briana Masson is a certified Pilates instructor and professional dancer who has just moved from New York City to Los Angeles. She has been teaching pilates for over 10 years and has built her business training clients privately on the Upper East and Upper West Sides of Manhattan. Briana's style of teaching is grounded in the classical Pilates method while using her years of experience to help her clients balance their bodies and achieve their physical goals. She trained in Seattle at Balance Within Movement Studio under the guidance of Gail Anderson and Dixie Shulman. The program, based on The Pilates Center of Boulder technique, places an emphasis on anatomy awareness and injury prevention. Briana was invited to teach at Core Body Centre Pilates in Paris as a guest teacher for several months. She attended University of the Arts in Philadelphia receiving a BFA in Dance Education. As a member of Actors' Equity, Briana has performed in numerous regional theatre productions as well as dancing for companies in New York City, Philadelphia and Seattle. With this new chapter of her life just starting in LA, she is excited to see what the future will bring as she continues to build her pilates business. |
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Steve Jones
Yoga Instructor
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Born and raised in England, I started traveling at an early age, arriving in Los Angeles over fifteen years ago. My journey into Yoga began with an extended stay at a Buddhist temple in northern Thailand studying Vipassana meditation. After returning to Los Angeles I literally stumbled upon Power Yoga and my journey continued from there. Wanting to deepen my practice I decided to go to India where I spent almost a year studying the many layers of yoga. During that time I completed a 300 hr teacher training course at Yoga India in Mysore as well as a 200 hr Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy course at the Patanjali School of Yoga in Rishikesh. Wanting to add a western approach to my teaching, I completed another teacher training with Rudy Mettia and Travis Eliot of Power Yoga Santa Monica. My classes are intended to be strong, challenging yet calm and gentle, all at the same time. Focusing on alignment and connecting with our breath to help us find meditation while in motion. |
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Rebecca Bennett
Spinning® Instructor |
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Rebecca is a Madd Dogg certified spinning instructor. Formerly an ice skating and gymnastics coach and national competitor, Rebecca knows what it is to train hard. Having worked with a lot with children, Rebecca tends to design her classes with a lot of imagination so that getting fit becomes a hobby, not a chore. As an out-of-the-box thinker, Rebecca's spinning classes are energetic and unique in that her rides are often scenario simulations, incorporating a fun mix of body and mind challenges. She will lead you on not just rides, but journeys, that will inspire your imagination. The sessions are playful and upbeat , so time will fly by while you test your endurance and strength on all levels. You will come out of her class feeling accomplished and positive. |
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Devon Spencer-Smith
Yoga Instructor |
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Devon Spencer-Smith was introduced to yoga shortly after receiving a BFA in Illustration at Parsons The New School for Design in New York. Upon returning to her native city of Los Angeles, she found herself working as a graphic designer/ illustrator in the fast paced, day-to-day grind of the fashion industry. Devon fell in love with the sense of freedom and clarity of mind she experienced at the end of each class. Yoga helped allow her to let go of the workings of the day and authentically express her creativity in its purest form. Inspired to know more, Devon trained with Yogaworks in Los Angeles where she received her 200-Hour Teaching Certification. Devon’s classes introduce and deepen students' practice through alignment, breath control, strength building exercises and guided meditation. Offering posture modifications and clear instruction, students of all levels can enjoy her classes. She continues to deepen her practice daily and intends to pursue her 500-hour certification in the winter of 2011. |
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Lynn Anderson
Spinning® Instructor |
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Doctor Lynn Anderson holds a Ph. D. in Health and a Doctorate of Naturopathy. She has been teaching health and fitness for over 25 years. She is a certified ACE fitness instructor, certified cycle instructor and a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance. She has developed two specialty classes, Doctor Lynn’s Anti-aging Workout for Everybody and Aero*boga; both available on DVD. She is the author of numerous books on yoga and health as well as a master aromatherapist. She has lectured extensively including The Television and Movie Study, Deepak Chopra Institute and at various fitness and health conventions.
She is the mother of two grown children and the grandmother of two boys. Married, she resides in Westwood California. For more information visit her website www.doctorlynn.com |
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Jill Hansen
Pilates Instructor |
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Growing up in dance and movement, Jill has excellent first hand
knowledge of the body. Pilates has been her secret weapon to
staying in shape and injury free over the past 10 years.
Classically certified in 2006, Jill's career as a Pilates instructor
took off in New York where she taught for many elite Pilates
studios and fitness clubs. Since then she has worked with
hundreds of people bettering their lives through Pilates in New
York, Waikiki and Los Angeles. Jill is recoginzed for her ability to
demonstrate proper Pilates technique and has been a featured
fitness model for many projects including Pilates Style Magazine.
Jill's parallel career as an aerial performer has taken her around
the world performing her aerial act on fabric and most recently
producing her own circus theatrical productions. When she is
not teaching Pilates Jill loves to fly! Her mission is to guide
people to the correct and most intelligent way to move in a fun
and positive way. |
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Regiane Gorski
Yoga Instructor |
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Regiane has studied body and movement since childhood. A previous classical ballet dancer, she found Yoga In the 80's and has practiced ever since.
Born in Sao Paulo Brazil, she has lived in Australia and Maui Hawaii and has currently resided in LA for over a decade.
Regiane is extremely fortunate to have had some of the most amazing Yoga Teachers, including Bryan Kest, Vinnie Marino, Lisa Walford, Shiva Rea and many others.
It is her beloved mentor Annie Carpenter who continues to inspire and
transform her Yoga practice in the most meaningful, sweetest ways. "I am deeply grateful for Annie who has x-ray vision and phenomenal talent, she keeps expanding and somehow I am there to grasp it all, in her presence…"(She has studied with Annie since 2004)
She has completed her Yoga Works 500hr with Annie Carpenter and
Lisa Walford, Shiva's Advanced, Bryan Kest's, etc.
The healing arts are also a big part of Regiane's life. She has studied
with many mentors, shamans, body workers. The anatomy of the body
is an important part of her work and studies. She holds certifications
and licenses as a body worker and in metaphysical studies, also having
as one of her mentors Michael Beckwith.
" I strive for precision in my classes immersed in a delicious flow, I
hope you like to move and explore. Make sure to bring a towel…" |
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