Training + Hawai’i Retreat

This is Sarah Hodges here, an appreciative graduate of the Academy’s Mindful Movement Instructor Level 1 training. As I take classes throughout the community these days, I find more and more instructors and coaches whose teaching could really benefit from training in mindfulness. You may be able to relate to this recent experience I had as a student who now expects to be taught mindfully.
Last week, I walked into a floor Pilates class at a local studio, ready for a good workout. I settled onto my mat and gathered the equipment that the other students picked up. Then class began, and to my surprise, the instructor turned the music up several notches louder than her own mic’d voice. I looked around to see if anyone else seemed concerned about not hearing her clearly, but everyone brushed it off. With craned necks and eyes fixed forward, the class quickly shifted into a follow-the-leader experience. The teacher moved on her mat at the front of the room, and the students followed along.

Everything I learned at the Academy helped me recognize how this unintentionally placed students’ bodies at risk. The teacher showed little emphasis on body awareness, clear intention, or continuity of consciousness, all key principles that support safer, more meaningful movement experiences. Beyond injury prevention, these elements invite students into deeper self-discovery and help them leave class feeling energized, connected, and embodied rather than simply tired or disconnected.

As movement instructors, your job is wonderfully important, as you lead clients and students towards greater self-awareness, from the body in. You uplift, guide, and make space for each individual to find success in the session.

For me, immersing myself in the Academy Training gave me tools and perspective that will stick with me for years to come. If you feel called to deepen your skills and connect with other experienced teachers, two upcoming opportunities invite movement instructors to collaborate and develop skills that uplift and expand your movement sessions.

The Academy began as an online platform, and has now expanded with 2 in-person trainings this year. The Hawai’i in-person training in May brings you a space to refine teaching tools and expand your perspective. In August 2026, the Academy will offer its first-ever retreat training, where you can step away from everyday busyness and pause with purpose, while developing alongside like-minded peers committed to evolving their teaching.

Come train with fellow movement instructors at an upcoming in-person Academy training!