Spotlight: Laura Cipullo

It’s no surprise that I immediately clicked with Laura. My life manifesto of “balance” is perfectly reflected in her motto: “Eat Kale AND Cupcakes”

About 3 years ago, friend of mine introduced me to her cousin, Laura Cipullo, who was expanding upon her NYC business by opening a yoga and nutrition studio in a neighboring town. My first visits to Laura’s new “L’ifestyle Lounge” were for a girls’ yoga class for my daughters (which they loved) a private meditation session (which I loved). Her guidance of my breathing and meditating, was both powerful and transformative, and I knew I had stumbled across a truly special discovery.

Laura is a certified, and experienced, yoga instructor and registered dietitian. She is also a four-time best selling author. To illustrate the innovative and empowering work happening at the Lounge, here’s a sampling of the classes offered for EVERYONE (women, men, girls and boys):

• Gentle Yoga (Beginners)

• Vinyasa Flow

• Rock, Sweat & Glow

• Parent/Teen Yoga/Meditation

• Active Stretch

• Tai Chi

• Wise Warriors Yoga for Boys (9-12)

• Ashtanga Primary Series

• EmpowHER (10-14)

• Yoga for Junior Athletes (12-15)

• And MUCH, MUCH more…

In addition to classes, Laura offers private sessions for yoga, meditation and nutrition. I can tell you from personal experience with the latter, that Laura’s wealth of nutritional knowledge and gentle, practical approach will revamp the the way you envision your body and your relationship with food.

And, on an even more personal note, Laura is an integral part of my growth and success over the past year. Laura encouraged me to create my brand and blog, offering her precious time to help me plan and brainstorm. She connected me with people and networks, ultimately resulting in a paid writing job. And, she continues to inspire me daily with her strength (mental and physical) and courage, fighting cancer like a warrior and soldiering on like nobody’s business.

Run, don’t walk to L’ifestyle Lounge. Or at least start with following her at @lifestyleloungenj and @lauracipullo.

MY TOP 3 LAURA LESSONS:

• All foods fit. All bodies fit.

• Practice mindfulness around your hunger level and food choices. This will help you develop a positive experience with food and neutralize judgement.

• Self-care and knowing your body are so very important. Tune in and listen to your body and intuition.