Nikita's 30 Days of Flexibility Program & Q&A
Let’s give a big welcome back to Nikita, Echelon Fam! We're absolutely thrilled to have our incredible instructor, Nikita, with us again for an exciting new program on the EchelonFit App: the 30 Days of Flexibility Challenge! Get ready to unlock your body's full potential and embark on a journey of self-discovery and improved well-being.
Nikita has some amazing insights to share about her time in Thailand and the inspiration behind this challenge, so let's dive right into some questions!
Q: What have you been up to since moving back to Thailand?
A: It has already been 8 months since I have moved back to Thailand together with my son Denim and trusted sidekick Ozzy (toy yorkie). We took a long holiday first to get adjusted and spend some quality time together until school started. We spent 6 months on an island called Koh Samui. Denim loved going to school on the island, as it was more laid back and less demanding academically (a lot more outdoor playtime). Also the food is really bomb, he's definitely a little asian. Thailand is a beautiful country and for those who have not been yet, it is definitely a lot different from the US. For example, I had to learn to drive on the left side (as it was colonized by the Brits). Also NO traffic lights on the island (perhaps a few) and somehow accidents hardly happen because people are just too kind. Seriously, it was shocking to me after driving in Miami.
On the island (and currently in Bangkok) I trained Muay Thai almost daily and landed some great collaborations with major brands. This brought me to teach Yoga for Muay Thai fighters on big events and now the next step for me is to actually step into the ring. Yes you heard me, this 39 year old is going against all odds. And since I practice what I preach, you guys know that the best version of you is just around the corner. Limitations only exist in your mind!
Q: What can members expect in your new program?
A: I have created a 30 DAY FLEXIBILITY CHALLENGE program on Fitpass for Echelon. No matter what your thing is; cycling, boxing, running etc. you will hugely benefit from this 30 day program. See it as a complimentary workout as it only requires 10 minutes per day. With 10 minutes per day we can make noticeable improvement for your shoulder mobility, hip flexibility and hamstrings stretches. Throughout this program you will find repetitive movements and postures so we can actually measure your progress. There are three MAIN POSES that will significantly show your improvement by the end of our challenge. This challenge is for EVERYONE. We learn to breath through the movements, connect with our bodies, release tension AND develop a beautiful habit of discipline and showing up for yourself daily. I mean that's a win-win situation!
Q: What is a fun fact or behind the scenes insight on creating this program?
A: This program was filmed in Koh Samui and because the weather (summertime) was so hot (think 92) I got up daily at 6am to find the right moment. You will see the weather is quite bipolar with rain drops in between splits and birds racing by. The classes with Ozzy video bombing I had to redo because he loves to sit right in front of the camera like a boss. I would have kept it if he didn't block the entire view with his black fur.
Q: What are some tips you can share for building and maintaining flexibility?
A: Flexibility doesn’t come overnight. What needs to be expanded in the body, needs to happen also in the mind. There is no separation, especially if you are ready to take yourself to the next level. Having a specific goal in mind (that is measurable) and a clear vision of what that looks like, will boost your training x100. Being mindful of your goal DURING your exercise is a way to workout smarter not harder. Get to know your body. Release tension and false information from your mind.
If you’re looking for guidance, I'll be waiting for you on my mat in beautiful Thailand!
Let's go against all odds and become the best version of you :)
Love & Light,
Nikita
