nature, we entrain back to the state of homeostasis (balance) much easier. When this happens, people move and breathe with more ease and the thinking mind calms. We then become much more in tune with our bodies and can perceive the sensations and biofeedback from the body much easier.” While all the sessions have been popular, Spiess said she’s noticed that the elephants seem to bring the most relaxation. Zen at the Zoo with Diana Spiess Interview by Ed Conn Written by Karen Gerhardinger Whether seeking tranquility with turtles, easy pose with the elephants or a chance to chill out with polar bears exhibit, Essence Mind*Body Studio’s Zen at the Zoo program at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is the perfect blend of nature, nurture and education. Diana Spiess, Essence founder, is an animal lover who leads the mindfulness and gentle movement classes in spaces set to facilitate a calm, relaxing environment. The classes have been so well received that more have been added this year. “It is so very exciting and many folks come to several of them. They love how the staff sets up the spaces with the animals. I always incorporate energy understanding with the animals we are with for each class,” Spiess said. A typical class begins with an explanation of what to expect, as well as modifi cations for those who need them. During the class, the students face the animals and can stop for pictures any time. “We do a class that is for all levels and I always work to incorporate poses and breathing practices that help anyone to ease tension in the body and to energize with calm as we are practicing in the morning,” she said. After class, students enjoy healthy foods while caretakers share some background on the animals provide behind-the-scenes experiences. During the classes, students also learn to entrain to the animals’ frequencies. It’s a process that happens naturally, she said. “When we are in the presence of anything, we can entrain to it… like feeling grouchy around grouchy people or joyful around joyful people. So, when we are with the animals, we entrain to their frequencies and it leaves us feeling different. I use this process in the practices and teach it each time so that folks can be attentive to how they feel and hopefully use it even after the class in their daily lives,” she said. “Our bodies are made from the elements and any time we are in “ It’s wonderful to see their smiles and to hear how much better they feel and move after the class,” she said. One woman emailed her ahead of time, to explain that she had lost her son a few years ago, and that polar bears were his favorite animals. She was worried that the experience would cause her to break down in tears. “I was honored that she felt secure enough to fi ll us in and still come. During the class, she did not cry but she smiled and laughed often. I chose poses for that class specifi cally to her needs but that also benefi tted all. In that class, one lady spoke out as I was teaching, telling me, ‘This is great! You are so funny!’ I kept the mood light and we all laughed often and the polar bears wrestled as we did class. I think I fl oated all day after that class. I was so honored to have experienced that with her and all there.” While she plans to add more Zen at the Zoo classes, Spiess has also been asked to teach for other small private groups, and has gained more students in her Maumee studio as a result. Opening Essence Mind Body Studio was a heart’s desire that was many years in the making through her education and early years teaching fi tness and wellness beginning in college, Spiess said. The mission has evolved from classes and private training sessions to now include Functional Medicine, sound therapy and teacher and practitioner trainings. Essence offers a variety of modalities for students ranging from children up to those in their 90s, for those with clinical needs and high level athletes. “I have been told so many times through the years that people from many different backgrounds and different fi tness levels feel so welcomed and cared for at Essence,” she said. Spiess’ personal health journey has been extensive and has helped with her own education. “It has allowed me to grow in my empathy for all who are working towards their own balanced health and wellbeing. Whether it was me, my children, or other loved ones, those experiences have shaped my deep understanding of what it takes to work through major health challenges,” Spiess said. Through the Zen at the Zoo and Essence, Spiess said she hopes to help people live their healthiest, most joyful journeys and to realize that caring for their health can be done anywhere. “Many folks don’t believe they can do yoga. It is for everyone no matter what their experience level is. I hope these classes encourage them to keep working wellness care into their daily lives,” she said. For more information on Zen at the Zoo contact: management@essencembs.com Page 8
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