Active Soul

Taking a moment at the end of a session to tune in and consciously connect to how the body is feeling in its surrounding space.

Noticing the ground underfoot, the feeling of air and sunshine on your skin, the slowing of the breath as you draw the focus inward to explore how your body has responded to movement.

What do you need most today? Do that!

Tada! All babies calm and settled while their mums focus on rebuilding their postpartum strength and fitness.

Our mums and bubs foundation course is a pre-requisite for our other group fitness classes and offers a for new mums in their fourth trimester.

Get in touch to enquire about our next start date or book your antenatal group in at a time and location that suits.

Love the unique benefits to be had from a beach training session!

The soft sand provides an unstable surface, engaging more muscles and improving balance and stability.
The resistance from the sand increases the intensity of your workout, making it more challenging and effective. Not to mention; the beach environment itself that encourages a conscious connection and mindfulness which reduces stress and makes for an awesome experience all round!

We sometimes factor a beach component in to our Sunday Traveling sessions and it is a real favourite in our Super Saturday sessions and retreats away!

Next time you find yourself at the beach; play around with a soft sand run, single leg balance at the waters edge or a set of walking lunges to mix things up!
Then pause for a moment to take it all in; noticing the sounds and sights around you and how you feel in that moment. So good!

** RETREAT AWAY TO BALI WITH ACTIVE SOUL **

We have carefully designed a 7 night Retreat for women which includes a balance of functional fitness workouts along with yoga and time out ‘just for you’!

Whether you’re looking to feel better in your body or break free from everyday stresses, our Bali retreat away will leave you feeling recharged, revitalised and bursting with energy as you enjoy a full program designed to cater specifically to you and your needs.

Embrace the tropical sunshine with a good dose of poolside lounging and laughs with new friends and healthy meals, that will have you glowing inside and out!

Join us from September 24th - 1st October 2024 and enjoy the following inclusions;
- Comfortable airport transfers (*provided on arrival and departure dates)
- Chilled welcome drink and retreat debrief on arrival
- 4 x group workouts that cater to your needs & individual fitness levels
- 4 x Yoga sessions to stretch and strengthen
- 1 x 45min 1:1 personal training session and post-retreat planning session
- 1 x lifestyle workshop
- 1 x day trip of choice (the best of Ubud OR countryside bicycle tour)
- 1 x all inclusive Island excursion (Nusa Lembongan)
- 2 x relaxing 60 min massages
- 1 x authentic Balinese offering workshop
- 1 x private in-house Balinese dining experience
- 2 x meals a day - the 3rd left out deliberately to explore the local cuisine.
- Time out from everyday stresses and space poolside to ‘just be’ and recharge

Contact [email protected] to register your interest.
Spaces strictly limited.

I wish I looked like this doing breaststroke.
Instead; my timing is off, I don’t know when to breath, one leg moves differently to the other and I don’t seem to go anywhere in the pool.

It’s hard. And I don’t want to do it because it’s hard.

Which got me thinking about G.
We’ve had a lot of conversations lately about how hard it is to be 5. Maths is hard. School is hard. Life is hard.. and I don’t get it. Except I do!

When I said to the swim coach that I can’t do breaststroke and it’s hard. She replies.”Keep trying.. it’s good for people to see you struggle!” Not helpful at all, although at that moment a penny dropped!

We become very good as adults at doing the things we are good at and avoiding the things we don’t want to do. And yet we are the first to encourage our kids to try new things and preserve when it’s tough.

I told G about my swimming lesson, how hard breaststroke was and that I didn’t want to go back.
“Keep trying and just do your best Mama” was her reply.

Yep. It’s that simple!
Needless to say I’ll be back in the pool next week with the words of my nearly 6 year old ringing in my ears - showing her I too can do hard things.

Comment below with something you find tough that you preserve with or a moment a little person in your life has held a mirror up for you to reflect! 🤍

Whether you are doing a group fitness class or 1:1 personal training session.. our first session together is a taster!

It provides you with an opportunity to reflect on your goals, explore how your body responds to movement, experience how I train clients and if the fit is right for you.

It will also give me the opportunity to tune in to your needs, observe your movement patterns in various functional exercises and provide you with some tips and tricks for things you can implement straight away yourself.

You’ll leave our session feeling better for having done something good for your body, mind and soul - motivated, inspired with a plan of attack moving forward that aligns with your current goals.

I am fully booked for personal training clients but have space in our group fitness classes. Get in touch to arrange a trial session and be waitlisted for a mid-April start.

We are taking our regular Wednesday morning SwimFit class to a Wednesday night technique focused session with while is shut for maintenance.

While we will certainly miss the gorgeous sunrises that we get over the pool at this time of the year (swipe right), a mid week evening swim will shake of the day and I’m excited at the opportunity to jump into the pool with a coach again also.

Whether you are looking to try something new, perfect a stroke or challenge your cardiovascular fitness.. we have a couple of spaces still available!

Comment below to join us poolside for the next 4 weeks starting tomorrow night Wednesday 28th Feb.

What do you look for in a group fitness class?

Beyond a qualified and experienced trainer, comprehensive programming that caters to individual needs and a welcoming inclusive approach..

Here you’ll also find the space to explore where you are now, & where you’d like to be.

Active Soul offers a holistic approach to your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing.. so much more than a workout!

Love a good banded step!

Target different muscles and add variety to your workout with a few of these step variations that will get the glutes firing and the legs burning!

1. Standard Banded Side Step: Place a resistance band around your legs, just above the knees, and step sideways while maintaining tension on the band. Drop the band to your ankles or even under your feet for an added challenge.

2. Pigeon Toed side step: As above but this internal rotation of the feet will add an unexpected challenge!

3. Monster Walks: Place the band above your knees and assume a half squat position. Keep tension on the band while taking small steps forwards or backwards.

4. Add an incline; choose any of the above steps variations and work your way up hill.

Comment below with your favourite version! 🍑

Our Mums and Bubs Foundation course offers a for Mums returning to exercise post pregnancy and is a great opportunity to prioritise your own wellbeing while connecting with other like minded mums.

This 5 week stand alone course is the perfect way to build your strength and reclaim your fitness post-pregnancy and is a prerequisite for our other classes if you’re a brand new mum.

You’ll learn:
· Essential core breath work
· Key mobilisers and stretches
· Correct movement patterns for everyday exercises
· How to listen to your body to gradually increase the workout intensity
· Exercises adaptions

Join an already scheduled class or arrange for your antenatal group to book in at a time / location that suits. Comment below for more information!

The perfect blend.
Resistance training with a touch of mindfulness thrown in for good measure.

But why should you incorporate these practices into your weekly fitness routine?
A few reminders that are particularly important for women below!

Resistance Training:
- Builds muscle strength and endurance, leading to increased metabolism and calorie burn.
- Promotes bone health and reduces the risk of osteoporosis, especially important for women.
- Boosts confidence and self-esteem through physical empowerment and achievement.

Mindfulness:
- Reduces stress and anxiety by promoting present-moment awareness and relaxation.
- Enhances focus and concentration
- Helps in developing a positive mindset and improving overall mental well-being.
- Encourages self-awareness and self-compassion

This holistic approach to fitness that addresses your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is what Active Soul is all about!

This might be tuning in to energy levels and how your body feels through a warm up, consciously connecting to how your body responds to movement and load in a workout or finding connection through breath and stretching at the end. Give it a go!

Term 1 is well under way and what an amazing start to the year we have had!

Scroll across for a taste of our outdoor fitness class and some of the beautiful local spaces we utilise in our sessions!

We have a ‘bring a friend for a fiver’ promo coming up March 4th- 10th; providing an opportunity for you to trial our group fitness classes for a fraction of the cost.

Click on the link in the bio to register for a trial week or comment ‘tell me more’ and we’ll be in touch.

I found myself with a free morning today!

What a treat to get an early workout in, not to rush school drop off, to have space to walk Bailey, go for a massage and pause for a moment in the sunshine to reflect on all this goodness!

My cup is full.
As we race to the end of year and all the chaos that comes with it; what are you doing to look after yourself and your needs at the moment?

We have a blissful weekend retreat coming up at that still has one available teepee up for grabs BUT Alice and I have also launched a day option for those who are looking to escape for the day but can’t commit to the full weekend.

It’s a 1 hour 10 drive up to Mangawhai from Auckland for an 830am start where you will be greeted with a welcome drink and tour of the retreat grounds before enjoying a restorative yoga class with the gorgeous Francesca from
Following that is our signature style Traveling session along the Mangawhai coastal track with a delicious nutritious lunch enroute provided by and a quick ocean dip for those who are game!
Tap into the left or right brain with your choice workshop back at the retreat centre;
- ‘Carve out space’ with .mconie in an empowering workshop with practical strategies to navigate the lead up to Christmas.
- ‘Get Creative’ with Christie from in a coastal themed painting workshop.
Last but not least, you’ll finish the day with nibbles, a moment of mindfulness and an opprtunity to reflect on your day before heading home at 5pm.

We have limited spaces available on our day retreat ensuring everyone receives a boutique experience that will leave you feeling energised , refreshed and ready for December.

Comment below or get in touch to reserve your spot!

Active Soul has an incredible mix of women prioritising their own fitness, health and wellbeing;

- women returning to exercise safely post pregnancy,
~ women juggling work and family commitments and needing time out for themselves,
- women wanting to train to their cycle in order to see max results
~ women wanting to train around a specific injury safely
- women wanting to model healthy active lifestyles to their families
~ women wanting additional support and accountability in order to achieve their goals,
- women wanting to be fit and fast to run around after their kids,
~ women wanting to counter the effects of menopause,
- women wanting a holistic approach to their fitness and a variety of classes that reflects this
~ women wanting to prioritise their own wellbeing
- women wanting to train safely through pregnancy
~ women wanting to connect with other like minded active souls.

Whatever the reason.
We have it covered!

If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, comment below or get in touch to put your name on our waitlist.

My feet have been up these last two weeks… in New York!

With Active Soul running to the school terms; the holidays provide an opportunity for me to step back and recharge before coming back in fresh for the next 10 week stint.

It goes without saying that active soul clients benefit in much the same way.
As I have been doing, they will have explored different ways of moving over the last couple of weeks to their usual exercise routines giving their body a rest and their mind a reset ensuring they are refreshed and ready for the next block.

I fly back into Auckland on Sunday ready to launch straight back into our last term for 2023 on Monday.
We do have a couple of spaces still available across the timetable - get in touch if you’re looking to mix up your movement as we head towards summer!

*** SPRING SALE ***

Active Soul Merchandise is currently on sale with 30% off available stock online until October 7th.

Our pink designer watercolour range;
- yoga mat
- drink bottle
- journal
Plus our at home training essentials;
- fabric loop bands
- long resistance band kit
- sliders

Enter the code SPRING30 at the checkout (www.activesoul.co.nz/store)
or tag someone with a comment ‘I want… ‘ and hope they pick up the hint!

With your health, fitness and wellbeing at the forefront of our whole weekend retreat; this is an opportunity to feel restored and revitalised as we approach the end of year.

We’ve designed the perfect balance of daily workouts, morning yoga and a stunning coastal walk alongside delicious nutritious food and quality time to relax, explore and connect.

This is a retreat like no other - one not to be missed!

Enjoy workouts that cater specifically to your needs, individual fitness levels and traffic light system to ensure you get what you need from a session every time.

What’s included in your Retreat Away?

🏃🏻‍♀️Daily workouts that cater specifically to your needs & individual fitness levels.
🏄‍♀️A 2 hour surf lesson with qualified surf coaches
🧘‍♀️Hatha Flow Yoga session to stretch and strengthen.
🥗Nourish the body with delicious, nutritious food from with all meals, coffee / tea and snacks provided.
💆🏼‍♀️Relax and enjoy time out from everyday stresses with massage available (at an additional cost) from the incredible

All equipment and gear provided for surfing, workouts and yoga.
Benefit from the exclusive use of the stunning Aotearoa Surf location with shared accomodation options of Glamping Teepee or Ecopods (linen and towels provided)
Next Retreat: Friday 24th November - Sunday 26th November 2023

Shared accomodation options includes; 3 person glamping teepee or twin / 3 person eco pod.
Total cost: $875pp all inclusive

Book by yourself and we'll match your accomodation with other like minded women or organise a group and book together. We'll make it work either way!

Need a weekend retreat away to recharge and reset? Look no further!

Scroll across the photos for a list of inclusions and comment below to reserve your space.

With your health, fitness and wellbeing at the forefront of our whole weekend retreat; this is an opportunity to feel restored and revitalised as we approach the end of year.

We’ve designed the perfect balance of daily workouts, morning yoga and a stunning coastal walk alongside delicious nutritious food and quality time to relax, explore and connect.

This is a retreat like no other - one not to be missed!

Enjoy workouts that cater specifically to your needs, individual fitness levels and traffic light system to ensure you get what you need from a session every time.

What’s included in your Retreat Away?

🏃🏻‍♀️Daily workouts that cater specifically to your needs & individual fitness levels.
🏄‍♀️A 2 hour surf lesson with qualified surf coaches.
🧘‍♀️Hatha Flow Yoga session to stretch and strengthen.
🥗Nourish the body with delicious, nutritious food with all meals, coffee / tea and snacks provided.
💆🏼‍♀️Relax and enjoy time out from everyday stresses with massage available (at an additional cost)

All equipment and gear provided for surfing, workouts and yoga.
Benefit from the exclusive use of the stunning Aotearoa Surf location with shared accomodation options of Glamping Teepee or Ecopods (linen and towels provided)
Next Retreat: Friday 24th November - Sunday 26th November 2023

Early Bird Prices - 3 day/2 night option: $795pp all inclusive // After 17th September: 3 day/2 night option: $875pp all inclusive

Shared accomodation options include; 3 person glamping teepee or twin / 3 person eco pod.

Book by yourself and we'll match your accomodation with other like minded women or organise a group and book together. We'll make it work either way!

Limited spaces available.. tag someone who needs this in their life!

When was the last time you did something for the first time?

It can be daunting putting yourself out of your comfort zone to join a new group, learn a new skill, connect with like minded people you’ve not met before and at we understand that!

Scroll through these photos for some of my favourite active soul opportunities to learn!

1. Swimming drills and sets that include sprint, hypoxic or endurance work.. being ‘swim-fit’ is a different challenge altogether on the cardiovascular system!
2. Considering your physiological load and stage of journey and learning how to move with autonomy, adapting a workout where needed to ensure you finish recharged not depleted.
3. Testing your co-ordination and strength with boxing drills and strength sets.. it’s fun, friendly and fast paced if you want it to be!
4. Understanding your postpartum body and navigating a safe return to exercise with bubs in tow.
5. Stretching, rolling and strengthening the body with a mindful connection between breath and movement.
6. Retreating away for a weekend escape that prioritises your health, fitness and wellbeing.
7. Investing in personal training and working as much on your mindset around exercise and personal wellbeing as we do your fitness goals.

Term 4 starts Monday 8th October with limited spaces across the timetable. Get in touch if you’re ready to learn something new!

Evidence suggests that learning or trying new things creates a sense of achievement, competence and stimulates engagement with the world around us.

There are lots of ways that you can Keep Learning today and every day.

A few ideas to help you keep learning:

- Join a class or group – learn an instrument, join a book club or put on your dancing shoes and learn some new moves. Not only will you learn an impressive new skill, you’ll get to connect with new people too.
- Is there a new skill you’d like to develop or a hobby you’re interested in taking up? Try watching a YouTube video or listening to a podcast to get you started.
- Look up a new recipe and have a go at making it. Get your mates or whānau over to enjoy your creation.
- Do some puzzles! Crosswords, sudoku, riddles are all great ways to exercise the mind.
- Ask your tamariki to teach you about something new they learnt at school today.

When was the last time you did something for the first time?
Comment below!

This community project was a restoration of a mixed media woven art installation I did with 5 year olds at BPS around 10 years ago.

It was originally exhibited at ‘Sculpture on Shore’ and then found its home at Birkenhead Library where it’s been ever since.
Time has faded this much loved rainbow, so last year I asked if I could return it to its former glory with the help of our community.

and their ELC, current and past pupils / teachers and parents from Birkenhead Primary, clients and locals passing by.. all took a moment in time to weave a strip of fabric in place, enquire at the history of the project and marvel at the mana and aroha poured into it over the years from all involved.

Connections were made within our community, laughs were shared as stories were swapped, new friends made and skills learnt from both young and old. It was not the quick restoration I envisaged - it was more, in so many ways!

This Rangitoto is more than a piece of art; it represents connection, inclusion, hope, friendship and all other beautiful things we value as a community.

A sense of feeling connected, loved or belonging with others is strongly associated with better wellbeing and other health outcomes by providing a sense of meaning, safety, support and purpose.

You’ll have your own ways to connect with people in your community.. here’s a few more ideas you could also consider!
- reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Send a message or call for a chat!
- organise a casual dinner with family and friends
- ask family members their ‘highlight of the day’, listen respond and see where the conversation flows to
- pop in and visit a neighbour you know lives on their own; a quick hi and and check in might just make their day!
- have a whanau device free night and bring out the favourite board games instead
- offer support to someone you know that a going through a tough time
- initiate conversation with familiar faces you pass while out walking.

Add your own ways to seek connection to the comments below!

Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins - our amazing feel good hormones!

This can uplift your mood and increase feelings of happiness, reduce stress and anxiety levels, promotes relaxation, enhances mental resilience and sharpens our thinking and boosts creativity.

Being active doesn’t always mean long high intensity cardio workouts - choose movement that you love and makes you feel good!

A few random favourites;
- A walk through any of our local bush tracks or searching out a favourite view
- An impromptu dance party in the lounge to your favourite tunes
- A walk and talk with a good friend
- Having a bit of fun with incidental exercise
- A weekend picnic and cricket game in the park with family and friends
- A family fit fun workout that incorporates the kids

Comment below with some different ways you choose to move in your week!

The gift of community.

A tribe.
A village.
A group of like-minded humans that lean in, support, encourage, empathise and brighten your day.

I am so thankful for mine.
If you haven’t found yours yet.. reach out to share mine!

When we gift selflessly to others - through our time, resources or support, we create a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the people we engage with.

What small gesture could you extend to someone to brighten their day today?

- A smile and ‘good morning’ goes a long way!
- Take a moment to check in on a friend / neighbour
- Donate toys, books or clothes you no longer need to a local charity
- Open the door for someone or let someone go ahead of you
- Let someone know you’re thinking of them with a kind text or note.

We often incorporate a moment of mindfulness into our sessions.

Sometimes it’s as simple as finding connection with breath, movement and noticing how our body responds.

Other times it’s providing permission to pause - sometimes midway through a workout, sometimes right at the end before we have to continue with our busy lives.

Read the moment of mindfulness below and take it into your day in a moment when you need to pause and take notice.

————————————————————

Close your eyes.

Notice the ground underneath, the cool air in your skin, sunshine on your face. Take a long slow breath in and notice how your ribs expand and belly lifts. Exhale and allow your face to soften, shoulders to drop and body relax.

Listen to the sounds around you. Those close by and those further away, noticing each one without judgement and then moving on to the next.

Open your eyes keeping your gaze low. Notice the surface underfoot, the colours, textures and layers before lifting your gaze slowly to take in the bigger picture that awaits.

Take notice.

————————————————————

A fresh week with opportunities to reflect and reset.

Take a step back and observe without judgement, creating space to think, breathe and just be.

A few ways you can take notice;
- head out for a mindful walk
- take 5 in the sunshine noticing what you feel, hear, see, smell, taste.
- unplug the devices
- find connection with breath and movement
- 3 min journal entry
- give yourself permission to pause

Comment below with your favourite ways to find mindfulness or stay present in your day.