Barre and Bowls: A Harmonious Blend of Fitness and Sound Healing

Hey everyone! I'm Lauren, the barre fitness instructor at The Shala. Having transitioned from a career in professional dance, I discovered a newfound passion for teaching barre—a fitness style infused with the grace of ballet and the strength of Pilates.

Simultaneously, I delved into my other passion, music. Exploring its potential for healing and harmony. At The Shala, my classes, especially "Barre and Bowls," aim to fuse the dynamic energy of fitness with the soothing notes of sound baths. Let's explore the mind-body connection, enhance balance, and embrace the joy of movement together. You can listen to Lauren's music on Spotify or on YouTube!

In this blog, I'll take you through the essence of barre fitness, its key components, and why it's not just a workout but a holistic journey towards improved well-being.

What is Barre fitness?

First, for the general definition: Barre is a fusion of Pilates, yoga, ballet and strength training. It’s a full body, dynamic workout emphasizing isometric movements and focusing on strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.

In my classes I emphasize the importance of the mind-body connection, and we will work to strengthen this aspect in all exercises. We will be working multiple muscle groups and limbs at the same time, challenging not only the body, but also the brain. Enhancing our coordination greatly benefits other types of sports, fitness, and really every area of your life.

This will help to build a higher degree of balance and awareness in the body which will also be reflected outwardly in what we attract, how we perceive, and how we navigate turbulence in our lives.

Key components and benefits of barre fitness:

• Muscle Toning

• Improved Posture

• Improved Balance

• Enhanced Flexibility

• Low-Impact Cardio

• Increased core strength

• Accessible to all fitness levels

• Mind-Body Connection

• Body awareness

What to expect from a Barre class with me in Costa Rica

At The (Yoga) Shala in Dominicalito, we will mostly be going bare-less!! This means there will be a stronger focus on balance and core strength, and you will be surprised how fast your balance can improve when you challenge yourself in this way. We will, however, use the beams for support in certain exercises.

Most importantly, I strive to bring the elements of joy and curiosity to my classes. I want you to feel the joy of MOVEMENT, how epic it is that we have this body that can do such incredible things.

Yes, it will be challenging, because that is what you signed up for! This is still a ‘fitness’ class, but without the seriousness, and ‘chore’- like mentality.  This class is about coming together in community to become stronger, flexi-er, and even more present and aware in how we stand in the world. As in anything, it may take time to really feel changes. It’s all about persistence and dedication to the craft. The longer you go, the deeper you travel!

No experience is necessary. I will meet you where you are at. Again, expect to be challenged, and trust you will always get a solid, full body and brain workout!

Fun fact:

Researcher Marian Diamond found in the 1980’s that the five key factors crucial to brain development at any age are:

1.     Exercise

2.     Newness

3.     Diet

4.     Love

5.     Challenge

I hope to check off at least 4 areas for you in my classes, so you can have an awesome start (or finish) to your day here in Costa Rica!

Looking forward to meeting you and moving together!

Xo Lauren