WELCOME TO AUGUST – BY JONALYN
August is here, bringing hot days and the start of a new school year. As schedules begin to shift, I want to share something I’ve been talking about a lot in class lately.
One of the greatest gifts of this practice is its simplicity.
Whether you’re in Bikram Yoga or Inferno Hot Pilates, all you have to do is walk into the room and follow a simple set of instructions. One posture. One exercise. One breath at a time.
The practice doesn’t necessarily get easier. It continues to meet you exactly where you are and gently asks you to take one more step. Some days you’ll feel strong and energized. Other days, simply showing up is the victory.
If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t do my full practice today, so what’s the point?” I’d invite you to ask a different question:
If I can do a little of my practice today, why wouldn’t I?
You don’t have to be at your best to benefit. Just do what you can. Let your body work at its capacity today. Let your mind enjoy the relief of not having to figure everything out for the next hour. Simply follow the instructions, one step at a time.
More often than not, you’ll leave feeling just a little better than when you arrived—and sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.
We can’t wait to see you in the hot room this month.
With gratitude,
Jonalyn
This week’s Student Spotlight features Jason S. His transformation is proof that lasting change doesn’t happen overnight—it happens one habit, one choice, and one day at a time.
“In July 2024, I weighed over 280 pounds and was around 33% body fat.
More importantly, I wasn’t in a good place physically or mentally. My eating habits were poor, I was drinking too much alcohol, and I knew something had to change.
“After my wife and I returned from a trip to Mexico, we made a decision to take control of our health. We didn’t jump into a crash diet or try to change everything overnight. Instead, we focused on building better habits one at a time by eliminating what was hurting us and replacing it with healthier choices.
“Before long, those small changes turned into a lifestyle, and we were hooked.
The weight came off, but even more importantly, my energy, sleep, focus, and overall outlook on life improved.
“Today, I’m 200 pounds and around 10% body fat, but the biggest transformation has been who I’ve become. I’m a better husband, father, friend, and leader because I’ve made my health a priority.
“My routine includes a 4:00 a.m. workout nearly every day, along with weekly Pilates sessions with Cheryl, which have been a game changer for my strength, mobility, recovery, and injury prevention. Looking back, I realize this journey wasn’t fueled by motivation, instead, it was built on discipline.
“Motivation comes and goes, but discipline carried me through vacations, holidays, parties, and the days I didn’t feel like showing up.
As I turn 50 this year, I don’t feel like life is slowing down. I feel stronger, healthier, and more excited than ever about what’s still ahead.”
Thank you, Jason, for sharing your incredible journey with our community and for reminding us that lasting transformation begins with a single step. Your story has ignited a spark in all of us to keep showing up, one habit and one day at a time.
SELF-DEFENSE WORKSHOP
Learn self-defense from someone who spent her career protecting others. Led by retired LAPD Detective III Cheryl Nalls, this highly acclaimed Basic Self-Defense Workshop is back by popular demand.
Join us on Sunday, August 16, from 1:00–3:30 p.m. to learn practical techniques that can help you feel more confident, aware, and prepared.
Limited spots available. $39 per person. Water and snacks provided.