About Me
(Photo Credit: PEONYX studio)
I'm Estie Spivakov, a certified Yoga and Pilates instructor with a diverse background in various dance styles. I'm currently completing my studies at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition, following my passion for health and wellness. My deep understanding of human anatomy, gained throughout the years of my competitive dancing career, as well as my studies in the Kinesiology program at York University, and my several yoga and Pilates teacher certifications, has transformed my approach to movement and fitness. I believe that by becoming more aware of our bodies, our minds, and our breath, we can tap into a deeper level of self-awareness, that ultimately takes us to new and more expansive levels of consciousness. My aim is not only to help students achieve their fitness goals, but also to guide them towards a more meaningful, balanced, and joyful life. I know that through this work, this change is possible, and I'm excited to embark on this transformative journey with you!
My Approach
Building the Foundation
My teaching approach focuses on developing a proper foundation for movement. Some of the pillars of this approach are:
ALIGNMENT
I believe that the foundational step to achieving our fitness goals through any movement style is first and foremost finding the correct alignment of the bones. Once we get the bones to align, the correct muscles are recruited, and we are prepared for safe movement that targets and strengthens the necessary muscles. Moving safely allows us to work with the body, rather than against it, and this, in my experience, has always led to the best long-term results.
BREATHWORK
The breathing techniques we learn in our practice help us communicate to the body and to our nervous system that we are present and safe. This is essential because when we befriend our body and our mind, rather than treat them as the enemy, they respond and react much better to our efforts. This, over time, also allows us to build a positive relationship with ourselves- which is a quality that is of utmost importance in the soul journey. Some of the amazing benefits of breathwork are: improved concentration, increased energy and vitality, ability to live in the present moment, nervous system regulation, and ultimately, improved interpersonal relationships, and an enhanced awareness of ourselves and of the world around us.
Doing the Work
Once we've gotten down the correct alignment and learned how to combine breath with movement, we're ready to get moving. We combine some of the most effective and creative movements from Yoga, Pilates, and other movement forms like weight-training, cardio and dance to get you the results you're looking for. We recommend a variety of class types depending on your current needs and goals:
Feeling fatigued, stressed, recovering from an injury or other health condition, or just in need of some TLC? We recommend to opt for for styles like Yin-Yoga, restorative Yoga, or restorative Pilates to help you feel relaxed, and to facilitate and support your recovery process.
Feeling energized and ready to strengthen, tone, and sweat? In this case, we kick it up a notch and go for sequenced classes that will get those muscles burning and will leave you feeling like you're ready to take on anything that comes your way.
Have questions on which class type would be best suited for your goals? Click below to contact us and we would be happy to help you identify your ideal starting place.
Client Talk
Here is what clients have to say about their experience:
Estie Spivakov
Please get in touch to book a class or a consultation, or leave me a message about any questions you have and I’ll get back to you.
Thornhill / Vaughan, Ontario
+1(647)898-5444