New Class: Om’ Style Pilates at Elemental Om by Kristen Fryer

Over the past couple of years I have wanted to combine the fundamentals of Pilates and The Alexander Technique into a movement class. What I have come to realize as a teacher is that I can never copy someone else’s teaching style without leaving some of my own knowledge out. As much as I like a pure Pilates class or a straight Alexander lesson, I feel incomplete as a teacher without combining the two. These two modalities are so much a part of me that to separate them feels inauthentic. The new class “Om’ Style Pilates” brings The Alexander Technique and Pilates to life in a yoga environment. So, what can you gain from this class? Judging from the feedback I’ve received, a lot. Firstly, we incorporate fundamental Alexander principles that I have only seen taught by Alexander teachers. Mainly, how to stop doing movements that are undesirable. Becoming aware of how you over use your muscles before engaging them in a workout. This is a unique approach that is … Continue reading

Pilates and The Alexander Technique: One Teacher’s Journey to Marry the Two

by Kristen Thomas Fryer ~Fourteen years ago, I was introduced to The Alexander Technique and I experienced my first pain-free night of sleep in 5 years. The Technique, developed by F. M. Alexander, was gentle and seemed effortless and yet it reduced my pain to nothing! I was so impressed with the Technique that my voice teacher said, “I was a plug that finally found a socket.” I wanted to know everything I could and decided to pursue the 1600 hour teacher training program in Cincinnati, Ohio. I had no money, no car, no job, and the course would cost $550/month for the next 3 years of my life. On paper my plan made no sense. My parents had just gone through bankruptcy and there were no loans available for an unaccredited course such as this. I took a leap of faith, moved to the city, and hoped for the best. I got a job at Clifton Natural Foods and used my bike to get around. It wasn’t ideal. … Continue reading