But like many people, I have a hard time getting active when its cold out.
Between the months of December and March, I tend to go into workout hibernation.
Id just rather stay in my apartment andNetflixand chill (literally) than swing a kettlebell.
Christian Miles
At the beginning of the event, there was a shortyogaclass in the downstairs studio.
The yoga class at Athleta was soothing but still challenging, thanks to our instructor, Pilin Anice.
From the moment I met her, Anice was a ray of sunshine on an otherwise dreary winter day.
Christian Miles
After hearing the words Afro flow, I was instantly intrigued.
After one class, Anice was hooked.
She signed up for instructor training.
Christian Miles
Now, she’s been teaching the class for almost seven years.
The first show Id ever seen was Firebird, a performance Ill never forget.
We signed up for a class, not knowing what, exactly, we were getting ourselves into.
Christian Miles
After walking through the historic doors of Alvin Ailey, I instantly swelled with pride for myAfrican-Americanculture.
Anice started the class by telling us that her practice was rooted in love and compassion.
Then we continued with a vinyasa yoga flow, which included poses like Downward Facing Dog and Cobra.
Christian Miles
It was very relaxing.
After pushing all of our mats aside, there was plenty of room left in the spacious studio todance.
Even the smallest movements felt more intense with the heavy, pounding beat.
Christian Miles
It felt damn good.
After everyone was seated, she asked us to say a word that described our experience in the moment.
I said, peace.
Christian Miles
I felt all of that, and then some.
Anice says she witnesses this often among African-American students in her class.
For that reason, our classes attract everyone, which is awesome!
But I think African-Americans especially feel acultural connectionto the class.
Part of that could come from the fact that its taught by a woman of color, she says.
