Move with Val - Yoga and Movement

A lot of what happens in class starts long before you walk through the studio doors.

After teaching this morning, I stayed behind to play around with the Theraband and test new movement ideas. Every exercise has a purpose, and I love finding ways to make classes both challenging and enjoyable.

There’s always something new to learn, and that’s one of my favorite parts of teaching.

My school invited Molly Grantham as a guest speaker, and her “bet on yourself” message really stayed with me.

These 5 lessons hit me not just in my Pilates journey, but in my life right now:
1. A messy end to something doesn’t ruin the journey you took to get there.
Whether it’s a breakup, a shift in friendships, or in Pilates—wrapping up a client relationship, transitioning between studios, or finishing a tough phase—none of that takes away from how much I’ve grown.
2. People are gonna talk. Don’t jump into the gossip.
I’ve learned to stay grounded and focus on my path. And honestly, some of the biggest support has come from people I didn’t even expect—especially throughout my Pilates training.
3. Windshield, not rearview.
I used to think about whether I should have started earlier, but now I truly believe I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
4. Walk through every single door. Have every coffee. Take the opportunity.
Every class, every observation hour, every chance to teach—I’m saying yes, even when it feels uncomfortable.
5. Build the plane as you fly it.
This one is the hardest for me. I like to have everything perfect. But I’m learning to let go of that, trust the process, and grow as I go.

I’m still becoming the teacher—and person—I’m meant to be.
And I’m choosing to bet on myself every step of the way 🤍

Today was my audition day at The Balance Physical Therapy & Pilates Studio! I’m proud of how it went! There are definitely things to work on, but at least I took the first step.

I’ll be honest—juggling time with all my commitments is no joke, but I’m so grateful for this opportunity and the growth ahead.