Here are my Testimonials:
Nurse practitioner finds relief in headaches with "Wall Yoga"
As a Nurse Practitioner I'm well aware of the importance of physical fitness, however a few years ago I herniated a disk in my neck and suffered in constant pain, I tried physical therapy, steroid injections and multiple medications to control the pain and improve range of motion in my neck. Quite honestly Colette's yoga/pilates mat classes have been the most effective treatment. After several months of classes I improved significantly. In her gentle nurturing style Colette continually challenges us to conquer moves and improve our flexibility. My favorite; wall-yoga classes while at first seemed intimidating have proven to be the fastest way to strengthen and tone my shoulders neck and upper arms.
I now recommend yoga to my chronic pain patients.
Sincerely
Patricia RN, MSN, CNP (Certified Nurse Practitioner).
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"The Barry's Method" and my Muscular Dystrophy
When I was diagnosed with Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy, I felt that my time being ambulatory was like sand through an hour glass. As the years passed, my body began failing me, and I would fall unexpectedly and often. I assumed it must mean that my time outside of a wheelchair was creeping up behind me. It felt like I had no control over my body, and it was very, very frustrating. It was then I was introduced to Pilates and yoga. Initially, I laughed at the idea. I thought to myself, "That's something reserved for celebrities and otherwise healthy, strong individuals!" I never thought I would have been able to do it, but I was very wrong. The sliding system allows me to isolate muscles that I hardly use due to overcompensation of other body parts. Since the amount of gravity can be adjusted, I am able to do such things as squatting (something I haven't been able to do in years), pulling, and deep back stretches. These simple, controlled movements have done wonders for me. I'm no longer out of touch with my body. My coordination has improved. I fall a lot less. Living with a disease for which there are no treatments and no cure, this is more than I could have ever asked for. I tried both physical and occupational therapy for some time, and never got these kinds of results.
In addition to feeling more physically stable thanks to the sliding system in Pilates, yoga has been a second, unexpected gift. Stretching and opening up areas of tightness such as my hips, back and shoulders improved my physical and mental well-being. I immediately feel better after a yoga session. It is not unreasonable to say yoga has become my drug of choice. I plan on doing it as long as I am able, and in my heart, I know that doing these simple things for myself will buy me years of mobility. It has also helped me to appreciate what my body can do, rather than yearn for what it cannot. I can't describe the mental peace that brings. If you have any kind of physical disability, I strongly urge you to try Colette's system. I never thought I would be able to do any exercise regime outside of a hospital setting, and here I am, 2 years later, feeling better and stronger. I am forever grateful for finding this. My life is better because of it.
"Meetup Member" Kelsey (Jan, 2006)
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How the Colette's Method helped me with Multiple Sclerosis
I have been very pleased with my results from working with Colette and her sliding system doing Yoga and Pilates. I have MS and suffer from fatigue and heat related symptoms which affect my strength and energy level. I also have difficulty with balance. I am encouraged to exercise by my doctors to treat my MS-related fatigue, but am not supposed to become too overheated since heat can cause symptoms to appear or make the ones I already have feel worse. It is difficult to find a balance between exercise and not overheating. The customized exercise that Colette offers through her program has been great exercise for me. I feel stronger and notice an increase in energy without the strain of becoming too hot and possibly aggravating symptoms.
Jennifer
"Meetup Member" (Jan, 2006)
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Cured my Back
Hopefully, I see you next Sunday for this!! We have our family reunion
tomorrow out of town. Oh, and you have magic, magic fingers. Your
massage killed off the pain in my side. It was unbelievable. You can post
this on your site because people should know about the magic hands of
Colette!!!
Meetup Member (Aug 18, 2006)
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Loved Yoga Class
"Hi Colette, I though the class was fantastic! Like I said before, I've only done Pilates/Yoga at another studio and it was not a very good experience. You were very clear on what our moves were to be, you took the time to make sure we were doing it right, and the atmosphere at your studio cannot be beat! This is definitely something I need in my fitness life, and I'm looking to join your yoga class, too. . trying to get my schedule more organized, and I love that you actually have classes later than 5:00. I will be there soon, and I will be bringing little dog yoga as soon as her brother graduates this week. Can't wait 'til the next Meetup! Plus, I can't believe how close you are to my house!
Talk to you soon,
"Meetup Member" (May 29, 2006)
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How "Wall Yoga" Helped Me
"Wow! Where to I start? A co-worker and I started training with Colette in May. We started with two times a week and quickly bumped it up to three times a week! My results have been amazing! The pilates/yoga sessions have made me stronger and leaner and have also eliminated all of the little aches and pains we think we have to deal with just because we're getting older. I'm quickly gaining flexibility and definition that I haven't had in years...or maybe ever!! I'm approaching 40 and my friends tell me I look better now since I've been training with her then I did in my 20's!! Colette's one on one program is absolutely addicting!! I've insisted that my son start training with her ~ and I think I'm actually beginning to annoy people with my "pilates have changed my life" story!! You have to try this ~ and you won't find anyone better to train with then Colette! Thank you Colette for everything!! You've changed my life!!!"
Meetup Member (July 12, 2006)
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Pilates Reformer & "Wall Yoga" Miracle
You are a Miracle Worker ! Dan and I cannot believe that my pain actually went away during and for many hours after my 1st Pilates session with you.
On a scale of 1 - 10 (10 being the worst pain), by the next morning it was about a ?4? and stayed there during the day, but as day wore on by 5pm, it got up to 8 to 9 (probably because of sitting at my desk at work).
When I got up this morning I was uncomfortable (about 8 - 9) and took Advil. During the day about 6 - 8. I feel that the pain is not as bad as it was before the Pilates session I am looking forward to our future sessions.
I will see you.
Pilates Client (Aug. 24, 2006)
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Finding hope with Pilates & "Wall Yoga"...
It has been five years since I have used any of my muscles. I spent 6 weeks in Ortho rehab, which did wonders. But then it ended, there was nothing left. A doctor suggested that I try meeting with a yoga instructor to further the health of my muscles.
Sadly I was not ready for yoga, however Colette suggested Pilates. To be honest I had never heard of Pilates before that day. But after two weeks of 3 sessions per week, the results are amazing. I am not stopping bullets or jumping buildings, but the strength I have gained already is amazing.
What these two weeks has accomplished more than anything is to give me the ambition and hope to carry on. I can't help but think, "if two weeks has done this what will two months, or two years accomplish?"
A wonderful side effect to the Pilates is the reduction in stress and anxiety. When you look at the side effects and costs of medication vs. Pilates, I'll take the Pilates any day!!
If anyone reading this is wondering if it is worth trying or not, all I can say is start today.
Pilates Client (Sept. 9, 2006)
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"The Barry's Method" & "Wall Yoga" is Healing
You are a miracle worker! I can not, nor can I ever put into words beyond this.......You have saved my life. And now I let others that I served with know what you are doing for me. And that if they too wish to survive they must at all costs, pursue these same endeavors.
It did not take me long to realize that it does not take you long to realize what your students need. Even when we the students don't know.
"Meetup Member" (Dec 10, 2006)
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Able to Keep My Job...
I can't even begin to express my appreciation.
You saved my career asa massage therapist. I
thought I'd have to live with a repetative motion
injury or find a new job, but thanks to you I can
continue the job I love.
Thanks just doesn't seem to cut it.
Meetup Member (Dec. 2006)
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Able to Do Yoga Without Pain
The past three years have been increadibly difficult. Going from intense pain, which was not diagnosed correctly to no pain at all is a dream ! I was so hesitant to try Pilates at first. But, I am so glad that I kep trying.
I was most impressed with your knowledge of the body.
I felt that unlike the doctors, you knew exactly what was wrong. It was such a relief to finally hear "Here's the problem and here's what we are going to do
to correct it !"
I feel that not only did you improve my physical pain, you helped me overcome and accept my emotional feelings.
I thank God everyday for leading me to you.
P.S. It was such a great feeling the other day to put my body into a Yoga position and not have pain !.
Pilates Client (Dec. 2006)
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Walking without a Cane because of Colette's Method ...
Well I got back, and can't wait to get in today!!!!!!!
My cousin is now going to try Pilates. And my Aunt and Uncle who live in Ft. Meyers Florida in an adult community is
going to inquire with the residents about setting up a Pilates group there.
You just can't belive how surprised people are when they see me. Standing upright and no cane they just can't believe their eyes........
See you today at 2PM,
"Meetup Member" (Jan. 22 2007)
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How "Wall Yoga" and "The Barry's Method" Helped Me
I'm so glad you have been a blessing to me. you are so patient and positive. you clearly
explain what you want me to do. you encourage me. you set reachable goals. you tailor
the work to fit me. you give me personal attention to the minute detail. you make me
feel successful when i might otherwise be upset with the weakened condition of my body
these days. you always reward my effort which makes me want to try harder.
you explain why the techniques are important.
you explain the benefits to my body of what we're doing. your facility is beautiful.
on and on and on,
thank you thank you thank you.
namaste
Pilates Client (Jan. 2007)
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Feeling Good !...
I feel good !!! Thanks colette.! The only thing that feels a little sore are my arms. We did some arm
work on thursday and then again on friday . I am looking forward to wed. ! Thanks again .
You are
good !! I like the individual attention we get.
Pilates Client (May. 2007)
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I've been Challenged
When I woke up this morning my upper body (back, shoulders and arms) knew it had been challenged ...
actually I had that "good" workout feeling. I am feeling good right now and appreciate the new moves.
Just keep challenging me ... I need it! :-)
Thanks for following up with me. You are truly a "Special" person and genuine in caring about people.
Personally, you have given me the tools for a better quality of life, so now I need to kick butt and get going.
Thanks so much.
Pilates Client (May. 2007)