The Fruits
We're fortunate to have clients who grow to value an inside-out, mind-body approach to Pilates as much as we do. I've observed that if the seeds are planted (genuine interest) and the soil is nourished (regular practice), one will undoubtedly reap the benefits: deep strength, a healthy outlook, freedom from pain. -Téana
“Pilates is complete coordination of body, mind and spirit.” -Joseph Pilates "I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the Costa Rica retreat. I carry that trip in the front of my mind and think of it almost daily. It was indeed a sort of reset, allowing some small but meaningful spiritual shifts in my life." - Allison, 40 "The Six Petals retreat in Costa Rica re-energized and inspired me. The food was pure and delicious, the rainforest was stunning and Téana's classes were a perfect blend of contemplative practices and great work-outs. I left feeling amazing... except that I didn't want to leave!" - Leanne, 38 "I was surprised because I came to Cortes Island and I couldn't believe how luscious it was. We were in this beautiful space where I had a lakefront view in my room; it was just amazing. I love Cortes Island... I have been completely in awe since I've gotten here." - Marci, 34 "You are excellent at what you do. Thank you for helping me remember that I love Pilates!" - Ashley, 40 “After hearing such rave reviews about Pilates I decided to give it a try. I am so glad I did. Over the past year, Pilates with Téana has helped me become stronger and more flexible. My posture has improved, the asymmetries in my body are evening out, and my form in lifting weights is better. I am now a true believer in the benefits of Pilates.” -Angela, 38 "You would not believe how many surgeries I have NOT had because of Pilates! Téana is the best Pilates teacher I've ever had." - Melani, 62 ON THE AIR & IN THE PRESS: SELF Magazine: "As soon as I met Téana David, Pilates-boss at David Barton Gym and founder of Six Petals Retreats, I was hooked! I'll go on the record to say: no exercise feels better!" - Alyssa Shelasky ∆ Téana ... Talks about herbs and Buddhism with Sahara Rose on her Highest Self Podcast HERE. Sits down with Katie Hess to talk about movement, meditation, and single-herb infusions HERE. Is featured alongside legendary Pilates expert Alycea Ungaro in SELF MAGAZINE talking about Pre-natal Pilates. http://www.self.com/fitness/2015/07/pregnancy-fitness-best-prenatal-workouts/ Tells us about the benefits of a Pilates practice on the BOOYA FITNESS blog. Check out her Booya video too! |
"My back pain is gone. I don't even need massages anymore! This is amazing, thank you." - Natasha, 39
"Whenever I look at my photos of Cortes Island, I want you to know that the time there doing Pilates & being with you was so wonderful for me. Ditto for the week in Costa Rica. Thank you from the bottom of my heart." -Lynn, 62 “I've seen a dramatic difference in my competitive tennis since I started doing Pilates two years ago with Téana. Learning how to isolate my core strength has released tension from my hip flexors and added power and flexibility to my game. My once chronic lower back pain has diminished and I attribute it to Pilates.” – Kirk, 36 "This retreat allows space for each individual to make the week into what they want or need from it. Some structure—daily morning Pilates and meditation sessions, evening yoga, and relaxing, healthful meals on the deck, and much freedom—opportunities to hike, swim in the river next to the lodge, soak in the wood-fired hot tub, receive a massage, ride horses, or just swing in the hammocks and listen to the river and numerous birdsongs and soak in Costa Rica. As a casual practitioner of Pilates and yoga for several years, I enjoyed the opportunity to deepen my relationship to both, but without expectation of a “rigorous” workout. I looked forward to our group meeting every morning on the lovely covered wooden platform by the river." -Amanda, 42 "I have to thank you for helping me breathe again. Your visualizations and the 'kidney breathing' you taught me have been transformative." - Tara, 38 • • • • •
A letter from one of our 2016 Cortes Island guests: To Téana & your wonderful team, It’s now been about six weeks since the Six Petals Retreat on Cortes Island, and I want to thank you, once again, for making it such a precious experience. Each day brought about a new adventure. A few of the highlights are: The accommodations - I had a one-room suite, with floor-to-ceiling windows, overlooking the lake. I was amongst 7 other women and the dinner table overflowed with delicious, tasty meals and warm conversation. The herbal plant walk - You freely shared your knowledge of the herbs that are grown by nature and their healing properties. Thank you for the recipes for the herbal water infusions. I’ve tried the oat straw and red clover, and plan to continue doing this, as well. The day spent with George Sirk exploring Kw’as Lake’s trails - His enthusiasm and willingness to share his expertise was priceless. The forest became “alive” with his tutelage as he pointed out the prolific trees, plants, birds, and vegetation native to the area. Forraging for chanterelle mushrooms was another first-time experience. It was a treat to have them for dinner that evening. Thank you Laura! The “behind the scenes” tour of Linnea Farm - The dedication and passion necessary to keep this farm active was evident, and it reminded all of us how much effort it takes to sustain life, while still honouring what nature gives us. Pilates and Yoga - The individual attention that both you and Meg offered allowed me to try these two modalities for the first time. I will continue to practice, and to that end, have an appointment with a pelvic floor specialist this week to strengthen my core first. I would not have even tried without your TLC. That's it, for now. I do hope our paths cross again in the future. Until then, I wish you peace. Warm regards, Sher Wrest |