HAPPY HOUR YOGA TREAT OF THE WEEK!!!

Every Friday at Sculpere our Happy Hour Yoga class indulges in a special HEALTHY treat. I mean really healthy~ gluten free, vegan, sugar free, and organic. Made with love and healing energy, these 100% guilt free treats nourish the body, mind, & spirit, and as always, food creates a social environment. Bonding as a community is most important, especially with new and likeminded people. 

Don't miss this weeks happy hour yoga treat of the week!

GLUTEN FREE * VEGAN * SUGAR FREE * ORGANIC
MACADAMIA COCONUT LEMON BARS

Check out these delicious ingredients...

Raw organic macadamia nuts (soaked overnight in a glass container)

Shredded organic coconut

Meyer lemon

Organic coconut butter

Extra virgin organic coconut oil

Organic vanilla extract

Sea salt

Cant wait to go to happy hour yoga tomorrow night!

HAPPY HOUR YOGA TREAT OF THE WEEK!

Every Friday at Sculpere our Happy Hour Yoga class indulges in a special HEALTHY treat. I mean really healthy~ gluten free, vegan, sugar free, and organic. Made with love and healing energy, these 100% guilt free treats nourish the body, mind, & spirit, and as always, food creates a social environment. Bonding as a community is most important, especially with new and likeminded people. 

Don't miss this weeks happy hour yoga treat of the week!

  

Pumpkin Smoothies!!!!

Check out the ORGANIC * GLUTEN FREE * VEGAN * SUGAR FREE ingredients...

Pumpkin Puree
Frozen Banana
Unsweetened Vanilla Hemp Milk
Cinnamon
Cardamom
Nutmeg
Vanilla Extract (Alcohol Free)

LOOK WHO'S SCULPTING!!!

Wow! The talented women at Sculpere never cease to amaze me! Our "Look Who's Sculpting" talent of the week is Miss Katharine Michener~ Roller Figure Skater. 

Here is what she says about her skating experience, and why she loves Sculpere...

I was actually a roller figure skater not and ice skater so it's a little different, but basically the same jumps and spins. I was the same way you were with dance. My friends new my answer to making plans was usually, "I can't I have skating." I miss it a lot, as I'm sure you miss dance. I skated 6 days a week for 10+ years and am really proud I made it to the highest level, world classes and earned a few titles in my competitive years. It's so much easier to stay motivated in a group setting which is the main reason I love your classes. Sculpere offers more creativity and movement that reminds me and my muscle memory of skating. Th classes are challenging and use movements that will make your muscles long and lean. The combination of yoga, ballet, and strength training is amazing and I feel great and a little sore after each class. I was having trouble going from creative and fun skating workouts to straight runs on the treadmill, and your classes are the best solution.

Thank you! 

Katharine Michener
Roller Figure Skater

Thank you so much Kate for being part of the Sculpere community. You are a beautiful girl inside and out. Looking forward to sculpting with you soon.

Xoxo,
Urban Sugar Plum

HAPPY HOUR TREAT of the week!

Every Friday at Sculpere our Happy Hour Yoga class indulges in a special HEALTHY treat. I mean really healthy~ gluten free, vegan, sugar free, and organic. Made with love and healing energy, these 100% guilt free treats nourish the body, mind, & spirit, and as always, food creates a social environment. Bonding as a community is most important, especially with new and likeminded people. 

This week's happy hour yoga treat is APPLE COBBLER... YUM!!!!

100% Organic Ingredients:

Apples fresh picked from a local orchard

Almond Flour

Oatmeal

Walnuts

Cinnamon

Cardamom

Ghee

Coconut Oil

LOOK WHO'S SCULPTING!!!

Sculpere~the workout, has been described as a gem. It is an amazing workout, and unique to all other barre classes, but in my opinion, the women and men who show up to classes are gems, and crystals! The variety of talent of the clientele at the studio has far exceeded my expectations. Sculpere studio has become a safe haven for former dancers, gymnasts, figure skaters, belly dancers, yogis, and even circus performers! All searching for a workout that moves their bodies in a way that is in alignment with their training, and harmonious to their state of mind. 

Look Who's Sculpting!

Heather McLay

Belly Dancer

"I am so happy I found this studio. I love all of the instructors. They are graceful yet strong. They are all very patient, and understand that progress is a process. Finally I found a workout that is more suited to my body, and I don't move like a gorilla the next day. Sculpere has really helped with my general stiffness, body aches, and hip tightness. Cristina has created a very warm and nurturing environment. The classes are very challenging but each time I leave I feel looser, lighter, and inch taller, and like I just had a great big HUG."

Follow www.URBANSUGARPLUM.blogspot.com to see who's sculpting next...

*RESTORE YOUR POWER*

In my experience, each winter my mental, spiritual, and physical powers become seriously depleted. It takes much more effort to focus on and execute a disciplined meditation, diet, and  exercise routine when the temperature is below 30 outside! Dark mornings make it harder to wake up for  meditation sessions. Taking extra time to prepare warm meals with plenty of root vegetables is a must to stay grounded. Just getting out to walk the dog can be a challenging adventure! 

It appears the snow has melted, and Spring is finally abloom, so as nature begins to restore its radiant power, so shall I. 

Power restoration plan:

*Meditate 

*Walk

*Juice

*Clean

*Sing

*Dance

*Asana

NO SUGAR * NO ALCOHOL * NOW WHAT?

                          

Last year I made a major dietary and lifestyle upgrade by ending my relationship with sugar and alcohol. It appears the "life of the party" is over...NOW WHAT?!

Actually, it was more like I was tossed into this new life by cosmic forces because my schedule does not allow me to even tempt the idea of going out on a Friday or Saturday night and I do not miss hangovers at all. I have a fabulous boyfriend that doesn't care to drink either, so why not stay home and cook? I simply prefer to eat at home because there is no sugar, no gluten, no processed foods, no alcohol, and no pressure. There is nothing more gratifying to me than eating 100% organic whole foods made with love. You cant buy that at a restaurant! 

In the beginning I found it extremely challenging  to socialize without drinking or eating out! I basically did nothing for 6 months before I learned how to balance out my social life without caving in to the pressures of the social norm. In my new life, "the life of optimal health", I enjoy cooking for my friends, inviting friends to Sculpere for classes, mani-pedi dates, walking and hiking. I have even warmed up to the occasional dinner outing once in a while. 

Interestingly I have made more friends this year and I have deepened my relationship with a friend who also doesn't care to drink. Ironically NINE of my friends are pregnant right now, so that is really working out for me!!! My idea of fun has changed. Now, I think it would be really fun to retreat to the beach or do a panchakarma (ayurvedic cleanse) for a week or two. Ahhh... doesn't that sound refreshing!

LETTING GO

 

I was born with an innate curiosity about natural health and spirituality which lead me to yoga and the spiritual lifestyle I lead. I love ayurveda, meditation, energy work, and bodywork because I find it works well for me. Recently, as I have been working on other aspects in my life, an other type of work that is not so easy or fun has presented itself to me...Letting Go. I have been experiencing some memories from my very early childhood that I must have been repressing for over 20 years. Children are so innocent and I think that when a child experiences emotional pain for the first time, although it is a normal part of growing up, it can be damaging to their spirit. I keep wondering why this is coming up for me now? The longer I replay the memory in my mind the more I realize, I have allowed this single bad event all those years ago set the tone for certain negative thinking patterns throughout my entire life! So, with much humility and confusion I will now go where many a yogi has gone before and begin the journey of letting go.

Here are my guidelines for "letting go" and I am open to suggestions:

Step 1. You are what you think

You're beautiful * You're smart * You're creative * You're talented * You're powerful * You're hair is amazing*

You deserve the best * You can do anything * You can manifest your dreams  * You are loved *

Step 2. Accept the now

   * The past is gone * There is power in the present * Hope lives in the present *

Step 3. Let it go

*Close your eyes breathe into your belly * Squeeze the memory out of your mind like the last drop of juice in a lemon

 
This method had not been clinically proven, but some time has passed since I put this intention out into the universe and I have to say, I feel better. The memory has begun to fade and I realize that contrasting situation over 20 years ago cannot hold on to me any longer because... I have LET IT GO.

TRANSITION TIME.

 

I just realized I am going through a huge transition!!! My awareness about this pleases me because most of the time you don't realize this is happening until its over! I am 31 years old and I feel this time in my life is a time for more growth, more change and absorption of more knowledge. My body and my mind are going through changes, even my hair, as I experiment with different approaches to diet, healing, and new looks. I can feel and envision my self as a balanced, healthy, wise and powerful woman/mother/wife/teacher/entrepreneur. I am in no rush for these desires to manifest. In some ways I suppose, I already am those things, but my curiosity about the possibilities in this life are so deep, I cant stop digging for more information and more experiences to "sculpt" me into the woman I envision. Sculpere studio is also blossoming into an amazing community of women and men seeking optimal health, connection to source energy, and self awareness.. Their energy keeps me motivated, inspired and excited for the lessons we will learn together on our journey. This realization has reminded me to trust my destiny and enjoy the ride of life.

One of my favorite quotes of all time about attachment and change!

"What was in the morning is not at mid-day; what was at mid-day is not at night, for all things are transitory (anitya). Our body which is the cause of all kinds of human effort is as transitory as the scattering clouds. All our objects of pleasure are changing. Wealth is as transitory as a wave(kallola), youth like a cotton particle blow of in a whirlwind; and opportunities like the fleeting dreams. Why should I be attached to anything when nothing is permanent and everything is changing?"

Sri Yogendra 

I would love to hear some of your stories about transition in your lives.

HAPPY LOVE DAY!!!

I LOVE this piece!

Yoga & Ballet belong together!

Enjoy! 

 

ARNICA IS THE ANSWER

I recently had an injury scare on my left wrist. I thought for sure I had torn something practicing some arm balancing pose. Anyone who knows me knows I do not like going to Doctors. I'd much rather turn to ayurveda for healing. This time I didn't know what to do. It turns out I have a ganglion cyst on my wrist! It happens when synovial fluid leaks out of your joint and creates a sac of fluid outside of the joint. I could actually see it poking out! I was advise to keep it immobile and was given a splint. My boyfriend came over with Arnica gel that night and I was out of pain the next morning! I keep using it at night and still no pain. Amazing! Arnica montana is plant known for its power to calm bruising, inflammation, and soreness. It comes in gels, ointments and also in homeopathic pellets. Arnica is the answer!

                                                                                                   

CONNECT WITH THE WILD.

Living in the city is great for many reason, but I value the luxury of breathing fresh air. I try to get out into nature as often as possible. One of my favorite weekly activities is hiking in the woods. Looking at the beauty of nature is so liberating and feels healing to my spirit. The natural lighting feels like a massage for my eyes. Everywhere I look there is something to smile about. It seems like no matter what season it is, or what time of day, it is always fun and refreshing. Lola loves being able to run free in the woods. Its amazing watching her excitement as she connects with her wild side.

MANTRA OF THE DAY...

A simple reminder because I often forget...

 

 

Xoxo,

Urban Sugar Plum

NATURAL DEODORANTS WORK!

I know many women who still wear regular deodorant. Although proven risks of Aluminum toxicity remain in a scientific/governmental wormhole, I'm not willing to take the risk. 

Risks include:

Seizures, Alzheimer's Disease, Kidney Problems, Breast Cancer, and Bone Formation Disorders.

Aluminum free deodorant should consist of therapeutic-grade essential oils and all natural ingredients. This is much better for your body, since your not overwhelming your lymph nodes with all the toxins present in regular deodorants and antiperspirants. My friends and I have been on an ongoing search for the perfect natural deodorant for years! We have come to the conclusion that there isn't just one for all of us. We are not cookie cutters, every body is different, thankfully there are many options available these days. After many trials and uncomfortable failures, I have found two that work well for me. 

     
Enjoy your search for the best natural deodorant for you!

IN THE STUDIO.

Winter is a great time to learn to listen to your body and be super nice to yourself. It's cold outside, so cardio is that much more exhausting. Focusing more on toning during these cold months is much more enjoyable and efficient, as your body needs more energy to sustain good health in the winter. Staying in a warm studio sounds great to me!

Sculpere has created the answer... Two new classes with fresh, innovative moves created by dancers ~ for everyone. Core Sculpt, taught by our Gina Toscano BFA ,and the newest member of the Sculpere family, former ballerina Barette Vance Widell from the Pennsylvania Ballet who has created our second new class, Bunhead Sculpt. 

 Gina Toscano

 Barette Vance Widell

 

See Result * Stay Warm * Stay Sculpted
SCULPERE

LIGHTER BODY * LIGHTER MIND

I am so excited for this weekend's event, Lighter Body * Lighter Mind yoga workshop weekend with Kelly Smith!  I much enjoyed her afternoon classes when she taught here in Philadelphia for many years. Now she is coming to Sculpere to offer two amazing workshops. Power Yoga and Yoga for Cleansing and Clarity. She has extensive knowledge and training, and I cant wait to soak it all up!!! 

One of the things that I love the most about Sculpere is learning with my students and from my students. I'm looking forward to participating in this weekends workshops as a student among my students.

Kelly Smith

CARROT ~ GINGER SOUP

 

FRESH * SIMPLE * DELICIOUS

Carrot ginger soup is one of my BF's specialties. When he treats me, I never have to worry about calories, or guilt. It is always super fresh, creative, and nutritious. Here is how he does it.

1 bag of organic baby carrots

Fresh organic ginger root

Sea salt

Garam Masala

Filtered water

Boil carrots until soft

Put carrots into blender add filtered water & puree

Grate ginger (about a tablespoon) add to mixture 

Teaspoon of sea salt 

Half teaspoon of garam masala

Blend 

Add more carrots for thicker soup.

Simple & made with love <3<3<3

BALLET GLAMOUR

I am a huge fan a blending creative art forms to create a new beauty.

 Sculpere is a blend of yoga & ballet, here is a blend of ballet and high fashion.

Beautiful & Glamorous in every way.

Do you think more people would watch ballet if the dancers were wearing top designer costumes?

PALO SANTO WOOD

 

The new year is upon us and I am all about cleansing! I have cleaned, reorganized, and refreshed my apartment from head to toe, and when I was ready to cleanse the energy of my home, I decided to switch from my usual sage, frankincense, and myrrh to a mystical and even more powerful incense. Palo Santo wood is related to frankincense and myrrh but comes from the coast of South American and is also found on  the Galapagos Islands.

Palo Santo is traditionally burned in ceremonies by Shamans and Medicine people for it's energetically cleansing and healing properties similar to sage. It smells warm and spicy and its scent raises your vibration in preparation for meditation. It allows for a deeper connection to Source and enhances creativity. I have definitely been enjoying it during my meditations.

Here are some purposes Palo Santo serves :

*To cleanse the aura
*To remedy cold and flu symptoms
*To relieve stress, asthma, anxiety, depression 
*Reduce inflammation 
*Ease emotional pain! 

Palo Santo is my cleansing incense of choice...At least for now.

HONOR THE STILETTO!

Maybe it’s just me, but I get the feeling, in “certain circles” the Stiletto is actually shunned, as if toxic.  Did I miss the day in school when my yoga instructor told me not to wear high heels? I do however remember the day when my yoga instructor spoke about non- judgment.  Unlike many of my yoga instructor colleges, I feel amazing in heels. Maybe it’s because of all the years I stood on my toes as a ballerina? Good style is something to be grateful for, it is a means to express your self and release creative energy, another voice, if you will. 

Here are two women who I admire. They are both deep and spiritual and also chic and fashionable.

Gabrielle Bernstein is a very well known author and a motivational speaker. Is she any less of a “Spirit Junkie” when she’s wearing fabulous outfits? Ummmm no… It just makes her more astonishing. 

Kimberly Wilson is an artist, author and activist from Washington DC, and she is the creative director and founder of Tranquil Space. She is in Eka Pada Kapotasana, (pigeon pose) in heels!

Then there is me... I am a yogi ballerina, and sometimes I where stilettos. I am not any less deep or spiritual or because of my shoes. I am taking a stand for all stylish yogis in the world. Be your most SEXY, be your most AUTHENTIC, do what brings you JOY, and honor the STILETTO!

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world”

 Marylin Monroe

BALLERINA BOOST!

BRAVO, BRAVO, BRAVO... I LOVE ALL OF YOU!

***URBAN HIBERNATION***

Winter is full on here in Philly and I am in major hibernation mode. Cooking, cleaning, & delving into creative home improvement projects are just a few of my hibernation activities this season. Anything to stay off the cold city streets! Having recently rid my home from the toxicity of cable television, my new favorite hibernation delight is curling up in bed with a cup of tea, my Lola, and Netflix! Here is my top 10 list.

1. Romeo & Juliet ( Franco Zeffirelli)

2. The Buddha

3. The Art of Living

4. The Science of Dogs

5. First Position  

6. Vegucated

7. Never Stand Still

8. Into the Universe with Stephen Hawkins

9. The Secret

10. Christmas Classics