A recovering perfectionist, Nicole of Yoga Theorem recognizes the power of yoga and credits it for transforming her life. Yoga has helped her to realize tendencies about herself and she hopes to help others realize truths about themselves as a result. She’s a big fan of indulging in anything in the cheese family and starts her day with bulletproof coffee. Not sure what that is (or how healthy it really is)? Keep reading to find out!

What is your WHY?

I stay healthy and active so that I can set an example for my family. I grew up in Oklahoma where health didn’t use to be a priority, and as a state, we have some of the worst health outcomes in the nation. I believe that regular exercise and healthy food choices can help eliminate most, if not all, of the health problems that my family and our community struggle with. For me, physical exercise is also the best form of therapy, and staying on top of my health gives me the energy and means to live a long, full, vibrant life.

Why do you teach and how did you come up with the idea for Yoga Theorem?

I’m one of four owners, myself, Abby, Jennifer, and Jessi. We all met through yoga teacher training, and we wanted a studio name and brand that would represent all of our different personalities. We wanted a relaxed, non-intimidating atmosphere where everyone feels welcome to do yoga. We focus on safe, alignment-based yoga for the whole self, not just the physical body. We want our students to not only walk away with a stronger physical body, but decreased stress, and a sense of peace in their lives – just like we’ve found. We’re also all a little nerdy, so the reasoning behind the name itself goes hand in hand with the science that backs the benefits of a consistent yoga and meditation practice.

I teach yoga because it has completely transformed my life. I’m a recovering perfectionist that never used to slow down to take a deep breath. I literally didn’t know how to breathe deeply. When I am feeling extra tense about something, my husband kindly reminds me that it’s because I haven’t been to yoga. Yoga has helped me uncover so much about myself and my tendencies, and I want to help others find that too. My favorite part about teaching is the end of class, Savasana, when you see all of the students start to relax. There is so much of a need for more mindfulness in the crazy, chaotic world we live in.

How did you first get into fitness? 

I grew up playing softball and basketball since I was six years old, so exercise is something that I’ve always enjoyed. However, once I went off to college and had more late night studying and snacking, and a sedentary lifestyle, I knew that something had to change. I got back into fitness during my senior year of college with the free campus classes – Yoga, Zumba etc… and the Insanity DVD workouts. My fitness routine continues to grow and change all the time, and I love the opportunity through StudioHop to keep trying new forms of exercise. 

What’s the best health/wellness advice you’ve ever received that has actually helped?

Stop looking at the scale and counting calories. It’s so liberating not worrying about a number, and it forces you to have more body awareness.

What’s your favorite workout to do when you’re not teaching?

I love kickboxing. Punching bags can be so therapeutic, but when I’m short on time I love a good HIIT full body workout that can easily be done from home.

 

What’s the last song you listened to on Spotify (or iTunes, Pandora, etc.)?  

00000 Million by Bon Iver

Best thing in your fridge right now?

Fresh mangos

Go-to pre or post-workout snack?

For post-workout, a good ole protein shake! I prefer the vegan ones even though I’m not vegan. For pre-workout I like a banana with peanut butter.

Go-to morning beverage(s)?

A friend recently turned me on to bulletproof coffee – black coffee with ghee, MCT oil, and a dash of cinnamon.

Favorite splurge meal/dessert?

Chips and queso, and cheesecake. Basically anything in the cheese family.

Where do you get your health/wellness information? (blog, website, podcast, etc.) 

Towards the end of college, when I first started looking for health guidance, I discovered www.heandsheeatclean.com and it was a complete game changer for me! Nowadays there is so much conflicting information out there I mostly try to listen to my body and do what feels right for me, but I’m also a huge fan of the Whole30 program and Whole30 recipes when I need to reset.

If this wasn’t your job, what would be your job?

I currently work full time at a nonprofit, Infant Crisis Services, where I manage the mobile food and diaper program. Working for a nonprofit is so incredibly rewarding, and I get to be around babies all the time! It’s also a great reminder that health is a privilege not to be taken for granted. I’ve also always joked about quitting my job to become a professional organizer because I LOVE to clean and organize.

Favorite way to unwind after a long day/week?

This time of year, I can usually be found on a patio with my dog Pedro, enjoying margaritas, tacos, and good friends.