Client Spotlight – Helena

I am so excited about writing about this barre beauty. She just gets it. She understands me. She gets me. She understands people. All people. She understands who she is. She understands our studio. She understands the ladies in it. Helena, from the beginning, has been there. She gets it. I’m not just talking, physically gets the concept of Barre, but she really gets the concept of WHY we have this Barre studio. Yes, we work out, we challenge our bodies, but it is so much more than that. It’s about being who you are and finding the strength from within. In class, Helena is strong. She has built that physical strength over time with dedication and hard work. But no need to dwell on her perfect form and strength. I want to talk more about her inner strength. Helena knew right away that our studio is about empowering women. We’ve had multiple conversations on this topic, even if they are short, they mean so much to me. Helena always carries herself as a proud and strong woman, no matter what hardship she faces. She has three amazing girls that she is raising to be “strong”, just like her mother. She brings them to the studio but always is the best role model on on what it means to be kind. I love that conversation we had, Helena, about being kind, and that one conversation sticks out to me. We spoke a lot about being a good person and thinking about other people’s feelings. In this world, there are so many things that are misconstrued and taken the wrong way with texts, social media and lack of real face to face conversation. Now, being kind can even be taken the wrong way. The beauty of our studio, that Helena reminds us all, is that we are face to face, working on ourselves, and making conversation with real women, is the way we really should be. I love that Helena reminds me time and time again, on why we have Barre + Beyond. Thank you Helena for being so strong always and for expressing love and kindness always. Thank you for reminding me time and time again, why we are here. You are an unbelievable role model for your family, for your girls, for all women and people. Thank you for truly always being kind, going above and beyond in your generosity for others and being you. To learn more about Helena’s journey here and what she wants to tell you, read here;

When did you first start coming to Barre + Beyond ( Mind Over Matter Method Barre Classes)?
 I started coming to M.O.M.s in the spring of 2014, just a few months after the studio opened.

What got you “hooked” on Mind Over Matter Method Classes? 

I became hooked when I realized that although I had chosen running as my “go to” workout and ran consistently there were so many muscles I had not been using . 

Have you seen changes in your physique? 

I have definitely seen a change in my physique . Not only have I developed a lot more upper body strength but my posture is better because my core is so strong . 

How often do you take class?

I try to take classes consistently 3 to 4 times per week and sometimes more depending on my schedule .

Have you ever taken a barre class before Barre + Beyond?
No , I was not at all familiar with Barre before I started taking classes at M.O.M.s . In fact I was really nervous and a bit intimidated when I showed up for my first class. 

Do you have any goals set for yourself in class? 

Yes , currently I have a long term goal that I look forward to hitting very soon the ” Forever Club” and on a daily basis, I let my mood determine my goal for the day so sometimes it may be using a heavier weight, doing a set of full body push-ups, or getting lower in a lunge and sometimes it is as simple as setting an intention of gratitude for my workout. Everyday is different . 

What would you tell someone that is hesitant to try a class?

This was by far my favorite question and one I get excited to answer. I would encourage anyone who is hesitant to try one if not all of the classes because there is something for EVERYONE. I mean all ages, strength levels, even people that may be dealing with an injury. I would urge them to not be intimidated because we all cheer each other on and it’s ok to go at your own  speed or take a break a come back stronger. In fact , the instructors would encourage you to do that . They also are very knowledgeable and give great verbal cues to help you engage the specific muscle we are working on to make it a more effective ,safe workout.  

In addition …I would like to add that Orlee and team have created a wonderful environment that I am so proud and grateful to have as a part of my day to day life . She is constantly giving back by participating in various community drives as a drop-off location for donations or raising money for the American Heart Association or Making Strides as well as leading the warm-up for a host of run / walk races all of which show her commitment and passion for health and wellness that she shares at the studio and for anyone who may be thinking “yea but … (fill in the blank )” this studio has such a variety of classes that  would suit anyone at any stage in the game you don’t have to look a certain way or dress a certain way Orlee and her staff are just as welcoming to a 1st timer as they are to a “Forever Club” member and as a result the women that participate in the classes mirror that . These women represent all stages of life from students to retirees . These women root for each other are kind and encouraging .  These women are all BARRE STRONG !

Helena,cheers to you, your accomplishments and for being just an overall amazing person. And yes, Forever club is in your future!

Sharing Barre Love,

Orlee and Team