CARLY DAMMON (she/her)
Mindful movement is my heart and soul. I started dance classes at the ripe age of two and made dance my whole world until I finished high school. The competitive side of dance burned me out and felt antithetical to dance as a form of art and expression, so I chose not to pursue it in college. I had chronic pain from hyperextending and pushing my body past its limits.
On my journey of slowing down, I found a yoga class at my university. The movements felt intuitive and connected me to the pieces of dance that nourished my body and mind. A few years later, I came across a workout video from the early 2000s that combined yoga, pilates and dance. It felt like a light bulb, or rather an entire chandelier went off in my head. These different movement modalities fused together just felt right in my body.
I made a routine out of this practice and began feeling stronger and healthier. People in my life commented on the physical changes to my appearance, which sparked another light bulb moment - I didn't love weight loss being glorified. As someone recovering from disordered eating and body dysmorphia, I found the aesthetic-based language of the fitness world to be limiting and exclusive. Through treatment for disordered eating, I found Ayurveda and herbalism and fell deeper in love with yoga, pilates, barre, and dance. I wanted to infuse the principles of yoga, mindfulness, and zen into fitness. My journey through movement is ever-evolving and I aim to make fitness more inclusive and accessible for all. I want fitness to feel FUN, empowering, playful and liberating.
I am currently teaching Slow Pilates Flow, Dance Flow, Pilates, Barre, Pilates Barre Fusion and practicing Reiki.
What You Can Expect From My Classes
Curiosity, fluidity and grounded power. And groovy music. My intention is to create a warm and welcoming space for you to feel empowered and free to honor your body's needs. While core focused work is challenging in nature, we'll approach it in a way that feels ~*approachable*~ Think strength meets softness. My style of Pilates is influenced by Classical Pilates and the fluidity of dance, but also incorporates non-traditional dynamic flows. We'll prioritize breath attunement and encourage the adaptation of moves/shapes for each individual's unique needs and desires. Instead of offering modifications, we'll start with an accessible foundation then options to build up the challenge will be offered. We'll conclude with a soothing stretch and savasana, leaving you feeling refreshed and centered.