Free Air Life Colorado

We have ONE SPOT LEFT for the Glow Retreat in Mexico next month! Are you interested? Message me for a special offer!

My hands allow me to feel, to touch, to heal, to create, and minister to [v: help/ serve/ care for] others.

Does my heart not do those same things internally?

Okay, right, so my heart literally pumps blood throughout my body- but hear me out… take your hand, ball it into a fist, and now pump it up and down in the air. Got your blood flowing, SEE? Same thing. JK

Alright, jokes aside, *figuratively* speaking, my heart is:
🫶🏽where my feelings are rooted,
✨ where I’m deeply impacted or emotionally touched,
👐🏽 where my healing is most authentic,
💫 where my passion and creativity is fueled and stirred,
🤟🏽 and where my desire to serve is seeded, nurtured, and grown.

How we live our lives and put forth the figurative or literal “work of our hands” is what allows us to journey between our head and our heart. It bridges our love to our minds; intentions to attentions; thoughts to actions.

As a massage therapist, yoga facilitator, wordsmith and occasional speaker, I press these two palms together and pray that my heart always makes its way to my mind, to my mouth, and into my ministry.

Our hands are an extension of our hearts, and connect the depth of love to our minds.

The hands express
what the heart has long known.

Take a look at your precious hands, or close your eyes and envision your held holy heart.
🙏🏽 May you find eternity hidden there. Amen.

Photo: .photo_collective

“The good news? Well, courage is a skill. And like all skills it can be learned and mastered with practice. Just like you would go to the gym to build your muscles, you can exit your comfort zone to train the brain. And every time you do, every time you take action in the presence of your fears, often disguised as mild mannered doubt, you reclaim the power that your fears have had over you. And as you do, you develop new neural pathways in your brain, and not only that, you develop what psychologists call effect tolerance. That is, you get more comfortable being uncomfortable. You train the brave and you expand your confidence for bigger goals and greater challenges, and broaden your horizons…

“I invite you to consult your inner brave heart. Put your hand on your chest. Breathe in courage, breathe out fear.. and ask yourself: where do you need to be braver in your one and only precious life?“
- Margie Warrell

Care to be brave, to get into your body, breath, and be-ing a bit more?
Join me at 6am tomorrow, Tuesday 11/21 for a 60 minute hot flow at Hot Asana!

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🧘🏽‍♀️:

“From the start Kelsey was an excellent communicator, she answered all my questions and gave her recommendations even when I hadn’t officially booked the experience! I booked her Sunrise Yoga Experience for Nov 10, 2023. It was about 20 degrees and luckily we were able to hold the yoga session inside the house! She was super flexible to my requests and what an amazing experience it was! She easily communicated with my friend as well to help enhance the experience!

She was professional but also very warm and personable, no awkward moments! She did her best to create the perfect vibes for me and my girlfriends! She even made sure we would be able to have pictures with the sunrise! She brought her own equipment and set everything up as well which was great for us travelling from a far!

She’s an excellent yoga instructor/teacher with a soothing voice that allows you to relax and not feel pressured if you can’t do all the poses perfectly. All in all she was amazing and totally worth it! 10/10 would recommend especially if you have a group of ladies wanting to relax and re-center! Thanks for making my bachelorette start off perfectly!!”
- Louisse, November 2023

It is my joy to customize each experience for the particular group & gathering I’m facilitating!

Louisse’s bachelorette party had the best energy & sweetest connections. It was a delight to collaborate with her friend who is a DJ to create a yoga and meditation experience that was perfect for their style. We managed to surprise the bride by arranging for breakfast to be catered in by .nicole.bowden (and her homemade fruit tarts blew my mind).

Near the end of the gathering, I’d asked the friends of the bride to prepare 3 words that they could speak over her as a reminder of who she is and how she’s impacted them… their tenderness, love, and supportive spirits came out in flying colors prettier than the sunrise.

Additionally, Lou mentioned a desire to get some photos taken of her galpals with the sunrise, so I arranged to have join, and she even did a private rooftop photoshoot for them in some of their matching bachelorette get-up.

What a gift to host y’all! Thank you!

Girl, you need to take a good, soft look at yourself.

a soft look.

The words landed on me once while I tread the red earth trails, and a distinct tenderness filled me. Why do you choose to do what you do for others… really?

The answer bubbled up from within as tears found the brim of my eyes. “It’s from a place of compassion for brokenness, a life led by love, and the sparkle of joy you pass on when you smile.”

so why can’t you show that to your own heart?

Yesterday I had five(+) profound interactions that reminded me of who I am and why I pursue the life I choose:
- I lead a sunrise yoga and meditation group for a Bachelorette party, and guided them through a pre-planned sharing circle (unbeknownst to the bride) where the ladies uplifted their dear friend with significant words of how they witness her live her one precious life
- I sipped coffee with a friend who pointed out certain gifts of mine I’d started to fail in recognizing
- I held space for a massage client during an emotional release
- I had two co-workers mention how they are inspired by me chasing my deep-rooted entrepreneurial dreams
- I visited with decade-old friends who hadn’t all gotten together in over a year; I found myself sitting there with a cheeky grin on my face- contemplating all the ways we’ve changed and yet realizing there are parts of us that haven’t altered one freakin bit.

Gosh, sometimes it just feels so good to SEE yourself again.

Perhaps you’re like me. For years your friends told you that you’re far too hard on yourself. They remind you that you never speak to them the way you talk about yourself.

Perhaps it’s time you take a good, soft look in the mirror, dear heart.

Be gracious with yourself,
kind to your mind,
and gentle in your process.

Be mindful with your time,
generous with your love,
and emboldened in your boundaries.

Perhaps, like me, it’s time for you rest amid wandering, to find effort and ease, to establish clarity through the climb. Be well, do good, and look softly towards yourself today. You are loved with an everlasting love.

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"Can't thank you enough, I feel as though the weekend changed the trajectory of my life and my attitude. My work/family/soul thanks you for it. I'm so fueled and I haven't felt that way in a long while! It's one thing to have the retreat but to use it as a tool to move forward is solitude; we did what we were meant to do. You continue to change lives ma'am be you have a gift!”
-Kendra,
past retreat participant

In years past I have encountered some of the most astounding souls.

Since creating Free Air Life Colorado, I’ve heard miraculous stories of resilience, and held space for journeys that have seen failure, collapse of heart and physical body, and remarkably enough: complete rebirth of the spirit.

Through mindfulness hikes and wellness retreats, I’ve not only witnessed the metamorphosis of others as they’ve experienced change, but stood back amazed at the joy of seeing people find their people.

Watching others connect with one another has been a top highlight from over the years… certain people overlap in time and space at JUST the right time for someone to lead by their example of breakthrough, to be inspired by a shared experience, to feel so uniquely seen, heard, known, and loved... free to let go of the agony of bearing an untold story, to welcome support by being heard, and embody courage through speaking out.

In gathering, specifically women, together, my own wounds have received a very special kind of medicine. The healing of my heart and its pain, brought on by an estranged relationship with my mother, past hurts within the dearest sisterhood of friends, falling outs with colleagues or peers… it’s nurtured by hearing of reconciliation, through testimony of firm boundaries, by sharing moments of peace with others who have known chaos.

Facilitating and interacting in workshops, as well as hearing women engage and share after yoga, journal sessions, breathwork, meditation, or just sitting around sharing a nourishing meal together… these women have stirred the coals of their darkest days, seeking out the embers that bring warmth and light to those who need hope the most.

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My dad had a pretty contagious laugh, but he was incredibly stoic.

sto·ic
/ˈstōik/ noun: a person who can endure pain or hardship without showing their feelings or complaining.

My dad’s father was also very matter-of-fact and reserved.

re·served
/rəˈzərvd/ adjective: slow to reveal emotion or opinions.

I have this memory of visiting my grandfather in the nursing home, after my Grandma Maxine had passed away from breast cancer. He’d quickly developed dementia after losing her and died five years to the date of her funeral.

He didn’t always remember us, but this particular time he did- I think I was about 9 or 10.

Obsessed with a new pink dress that had literal fruit baskets printed on it and pleats for the most epic twirls, I remember spinning and dancing in his humble room, no doubt to classical music (as the staff had taped a notecard over the dial as a reminder for newer employees that this was the only radio station for him).

“Kelsey.. is.. colorful,” Grandpa Norm said in his slow, Norwegian accent.

I carried that with me for quite some time, but just like many others, I’ve felt an obligation to dull my vibrancy and passion, my dancing rainbow spirit.

Talk about how the world conditions us to hide or suppress parts of ourselves! Especially regarding two specific men in my life who embodied black-and-white mentality in so many regards.

We’re getting somewhere these days, and encouraged to find authentic self-expression, but for so long we’ve been told by our culture that if we don't fit in, there is something wrong with us.

It is hard work to change those old narratives, but I know that it’s worth it, because every time I develop a bit more self-compassion: this colorful, playful, bright little girl waves at me from behind my brown eyes in the mirror.

This is not to say that I’m less of myself when I’m in the thick of sadness, disappointment or depression… but it is nice to point out that I believed a lot of lies about myself until I learned how to rest in peace while still fully alive.

So keep working at it, and "if you were in a world where you could be your 100% true self, what would you be doing differently?”

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Glow Retreat ✴️ February 19-24
Riviera Maya, Mexico

This offering is for the woman who has spent time seeking her lost spark or permission to turn up a dimmed flame. Maybe it was some distant time ago or you feel in the thick of that confusion even now. This is for you if you are ready to pursue courage & tap into your vulnerability. To radiate… to Glow… to exude Gladness: the subtle strength of contentment and tranquility of acceptance.

If what you’ve read so far has kindled a fire in your heart and/or deep in your core, I would be honored to have you rendezvous with us in the Riviera Maya this winter.

Free Air Life Retreats are always priced with options to room together or have your own private accommodations, and this Oceanside Villa is priced to meet people where they are at in terms of budget, while thinking of all the expenses necessary for an incredible time. Initial savings is $200+ off!!!

☀️ Early Bird Pricing ends & prices increase $200 - November 1st

💫 Past Participant Discount - $100 credit
*this credit is available for those who have attended a yoga class or workshop, (online or in person), a Free Air Life mindfulness hike, Airbnb Experiences, private events, or worked with me as a massage client; one discount of $100 will be applied to your balance

✨Refer a Friend Discount - $100 off (max 3 referrals)
*please note, even if you are not able to attend Glow this February,
I would still like to thank you for suggesting this retreat to your friends and family; that being said, if someone attends the retreat because of your referral, I would like to send you this $100 regardless of your attendance (can be sent Venmo, PayPal, etc.) Thank you!!

Prepare for genuine and heart-healing interactions with like-minded women who are seeking depth in conversation, alignment with their purpose, a nudge to choose playfulness, and encouragement to move towards self-love, self-acceptance, and gladness of soul.

Glow 2024 ✴️ A women’s retreat in the Riviera Maya - February 19-24, 2024

This offering is for the woman who has spent time seeking her lost spark or permission to turn up a dimmed flame. Maybe it was some distant time ago or you feel in the thick of that confusion even now. This is for you if you are ready to pursue courage & tap into your vulnerability. To radiate… to Glow… to exude Gladness: the subtle strength of contentment and tranquility of acceptance.

We will dedicate time to working specifically with the 3rd and 4th chakras, the solar plexus (Manipura) and heart (Anahata), though we will integrate all seven chakras into somatic and inner work throughout the retreat.

Stoking the coals within through bodywork, movement, and mindfulness, we will fire up our inner radiance and innate ability to glow from the inside out.

If what you’ve read so far has kindled a fire in your heart and/or deep in your core, I would be honored to have you rendezvous with us in the Riviera Maya this winter.

Early Bird Pricing Ends November 1
Discover more here:
https://freeairlifecolorado.com/glow-2024

Reach out with any questions 💛

When your backups help you feel barefoot 😍

This hike adventure was one of those lucky/chance things. A lot of parks use permit systems to ensure that our beautiful planet keeps up with all of us who can’t wait to admire it.

We missed out on securing one of the permits offered 48 hours before your requested date, then again at the 7am morning-of release… but I checked the website a handful of times that morning and we locked in two day permits from people who canceled!

It puts into perspective how much it can makes someone’s day when you use the park system well and respect everyone who is attempting to get a peak at these profound places.

I have always been a barefoot babe, loving to feel the earth beneath me whenever I can, but this hike was a 5.26 miles roundtrip 1480ft elevation gain, and definitely called for the real deal with my boots. But taking off my socks and shoes and strolling around with the (this is the Banyan style) was the perfect way to enjoy the summit and the middle lake on the way back down!

Lightweight on my feet, as well as on my pack, which made the hike feel that much better… they’ve become staples for the exploring at hand- or, will I be in the pun-itentiary if I say, at foot?

Takk for i dag, Norge!!

Someone special came to surprise Matthew and I during our time in Oslo. As if celebrating syttende mai (the Norwegian National Holiday) in the city center wasn’t glorious enough, my brother paid a visit to see us (and his beautiful girlfriend).

Filled with love for our friends, this city, and this country. Hipp hipp hurraaaaa 🇳🇴 🍾

Join UpaDowna and Free Air Life for a 1-hour walk, guided Yoga, & Meditation through Garden of the Gods. Participants will take a short group hike to our place of practice while being immersed in nature and the towering red sandstone formations. Kelsey Maxine, Founder of Free Air Life, will guide participants through various yoga movements while incorporating meditation, breathwork, and mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness Hikes in the Garden is a collaboration with the outdoor adventure nonprofit, UpaDowna. UpaDowna’s mission is to provide access to outdoor adventures for all through programs and events that empower individuals, create healthier communities, and foster a respect for the environment. Learn more about Free Air Life and UpaDowna.
• Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and rain gear!
• Tickets are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis.
• No Refunds.
• If you, or someone you are registering for, are under 18, a resident of El Paso County, and were affect by the COVID-19 pandemic you are qualified for free registrations. Please follow this link to register for the program: Community Impact Grant Registration (https://gardenofgods.com/community-impact-grant-from-el-paso-county/)
• If you have any questions about this program, please email [email protected]

April is Earth Month!! There are two opportunities for a creative workshop coming up:

Join me for a flow that integrates Friluftsliv (or "Free Air Life") into the mindbody dance of movement and stillness.

Recommit to finding rhythm and harmony within by channeling the Five Elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether throughout this 75 minute practice. Dynamic postures meet breathwork techniques and reflective pauses to cultivate a compassionate awareness of wellbeing. Class will end with an extended savasana and hands-on relaxation massage.

Engage your senses with heartminded curiosity, trusting that healthy souls in healthy bodies form healthy societies that heal the world. 

Saturday, 22 April: 7-8:15pm at Hot Asana
and
Saturday, 29 April: 4-5:30pm at Kalea

What’s poppin, cherry toppin?

My name is Kelsey Maxine! I’m from a little bit of all over, but have been calling Colorado “home” on & off since 2006.

If you’ve ever read my blogs or skimmed my IG posts, you’ll hopefully see:
🫶🏽 I believe that learning from global voices and cultures which differ from our own will greatly improve the very existence of humanity
🙌🏽 We can find ways to sprinkle that notion into our lifestyles every day, as well as engage our friends/ family/ social networks to become more compassionate global citizens
🙏🏽 In addition to traveling, guiding yoga practices, and leading retreats, I am a licensed neuromuscular therapist ~ so somatic work is a huge part of how I share my experiences and impart lifestyle wellness methods to others
🤲🏽 Mindfulness helps me consciously reflect upon and respectfully apply traditions and philosophies I’ve observed throughout my travels
🤟🏽 I wholeheartedly agree with Vandana Shiva who spoke, “The time for competition has passed, the time for cooperation has come.”

Backpacking and writing consumed my twenties, bringing me to visit 30 countries before my 30th birthday… some of that time I spent living in Norway and learning about my heritage, which is where “Free Air Life” or “friluftsliv” was inspired.

Eventually, at 31, I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication & Women’s & Ethnic Studies. My travels and education find their way into my retreats & hiking and yoga excursions, of which encouraging storytelling and listening to one another is a big part!

A fun life update is: for most of May through August I will be traveling again, so send me a message or connect on my website if you’d like to join virtual offerings! This will allow me to bring some of you with me to Norway, visit the Southwest US desert, and then roadtrip up the West Coast and PNW to Alaska and back to Colorado through the Interior Platform of Canada..

Please know, I am thankful to be acquainted with you; by whatever connection we’ve made in our lives, and I appreciate the work you are doing… both in the world, and within your internal wilderness.

All my love, to you & for the world,
Kels

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Last night was challenging… and simultaneously: joy-inducing. There was quad-burning pain and belly-laughing pleasure.

Actually a lot of my conversations this week revolved around how we can feel more than one emotion at a time.

It can even come to a point where we wish our feelings could TAKE A DANG NUMBER so we could deal with them one at a time. It’s interesting how we can feel invigorated but also exhausted; confused and hopeful; wounded, but still in place of forgiveness. Stretched as well as supported…. in hiding, yet fully known. (read that last one again🙋🏽‍♀️).

We know we are multifaceted humans- why would we think that we could only exist as one expression, emotion, or identity at every evolving point in time.

Today I felt deeply loved, and also very courageous. (peek the post for some powerful quotes).

The world needs you to your individuality to the collective and witness how our gifts make music with one another. Let’s harmonize 💛 There is no fear in love… and eternity is hidden in our hearts.

Thank you to all who joined us for last evening’s Night Hike!!! Thank you for your beautiful guided meditation and reflections on all things Libra and heart-expanding love.

Keep an eye on the link in my bio for upcoming events, or shoot me a DM and I’ll add you to the Free Air Life Colorado email list!

Warmly,
Kelsey Maxine

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Saturday, April 22nd, 7-8:15pm

Join Kelsey this Earth Day for a flow that integrates Friluftsliv (or "Free Air Life") into the mindbody dance of movement and stillness. Recommit to finding rhythm and harmony within by channeling the Five Elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether throughout this 75 minute practice. Dynamic postures meet breathwork techniques and reflective pauses to cultivate a compassionate awareness of wellbeing. Engage your senses with heartminded curiosity, trusting that healthy souls in healthy bodies form healthy societies that heal the world.

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A HELLO VIDEO!!! I would love to connect with you, if you so choose to watch this video or comment/ send an email to [email protected]

Live from Colorado, Kelsey Maxine is an advocate for out-of-the ordinary experiences, as well as everyday routines that help remedy our relationships to self, others, nature, and the Divine. Her work develops mind/body awareness, sparks joy, and grows compassion.

Enjoy this Spring Greeting, New Moon Wishes, and story on the playfulness of Aries as you head into your next adventure!

Visit freeairlifecolorado.com for upcoming classes, retreats, and events.

Spring, Aries, and a little song for you Live from Colorado, Kelsey Maxine is an advocate for out-of-the ordinary experiences, as well as everyday routines that help remedy our relationships to self...

The other day I half-joked that I didn’t find the mountains, the mountains found me…

The same goes for yoga, and my spirituality, and my soul-family…

I’ll tell you right now, when I share themes or life stories on my hikes or in my yoga classes, I might giggle, get weepy, admit failures or curse a little. The truth is, I’m still finding myself a bit, too, right there alongside you.

Come practice with me *in-real-life* in Colorado Springs before we leave for our big trips!!

More on that to come 👣
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Three weeks from tomorrrow, layer up with us for a night hike! In my opinion, I feel like “Full Moon” and “Manitou Springs” are phrases that were meant to be best friends.

Just like in my Airbnb Experiences, I’ll provide a hiking backpack with a yoga mat and blanket, but this time we will utilize embodying breathwork techniques and be treated to an intentionally-themed Libra Full Moon meditation by at the top of the summit.

We will gather at 6pm near Seven Minute Springs Pavilion for some introductions and to provide everyone with some wild & well keepsake gifts, then head up the foothills for a moderately challenging hike. During the climb we will pause to take in the natural beauty, work in some gentle stretches, and (let’s be real here) catch our breath. Once reaching the top of our peak, we’ll use breathwork to sustain our energy and body temperatures, then set up mats and blankets to get cozy and Alyssa will guide us in a heart-expanding meditation combined with energy healing.

Spaces are available with a maximum of 10 participants and can be booked through EventBrite or directly with either Kelsey or Alyssa. We are offering this workshop-style event at a sliding scale of $35-50; a pay what you can option. If booking through EventBrite, there is an additional processing fee.

Reach out with any questions, we would be grateful to enjoy your company as we Summit to the Stars.
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In 2019 my sister and I went to Hawaii to visit a friend for my sister’s birthday…

My sister is a February baby, and the first night in Honolulu we went out to eat.

As we were leaving, I was so annoyed with myself because I didn’t bring a jacket to dinner and the sun had gone down while we were eating.

As we approached the doors and began to leave, I tugged my cardigan a little closer and we exited…

… that was the day I realized I typically wear my shoulders as earrings in the wintertime and my entire body attempts to brace myself for cold weather.

I consciously let my physical frame ease into the warm atmosphere and let my auto-pilot stiffness subside.

Every day I step into the studio, I’m reminded of how good it feels to shake off the chill, become comfortable in my own skin and move with a bit more freedom.

Join me today, or any Wednesday at noon so we can thaw out and flow!

Earlier this year I set a goal to go hiking Saturday Afternoons after I finish work in
Manitou Springs…

Anyone free to join me tomorrow?

“The only way to get change is not through the courts or — heaven forbid — the politicians, but through a change of human consciousness and through a change of heart. Only through the arts — music, poetry, dance, painting, writing — ‘can we really reach each other…’”
~ Leslie Marmon Silko

I believe eternity is hidden in our hearts.

When I tell my students or acquaintances that I believe the inner light is the same within us, it comes from a confidence that a spark of light, life, and eternity dwells within us.

Through compassion for others and seeking that which is beyond *us,* I trust we can learn to make decisions for the greater good of the world. We each see through different paradigms and worldviews, and I get so lit up when I see and guide people to open up about their spiritual, emotional, and other life experiences.

“Reaching each other” starts with us all, in our own worlds and spheres of influence.

Here is a reflection or journal prompt for you: When was the last time you felt stirred, moved, or reached by another? What are your favorite ways of providing connection to others by extending a hand, your light, your joy?

Meet the Facilitator and Founder of Free Air Life Colorado!

Kelsey is a curious and friendly explorer & nature aficionado, a vivacious storyteller, as well as a registered yoga instructor & trauma-informed healer.

An enthusiastic wanderer of the Rocky Mountains and beyond, Kelsey desires to showcase, preserve and impart a long-established love & reverence for the great outdoors. Her company name “Free Air Life” is a tribute to her Norwegian heritage, directly translated from the Scandinavian concept of “Friluftsliv” and blends Nature, Yoga, and Massage Therapies.

Kelsey has been in the hospitality and wellness industry since 2007. Devoting time to intrapersonal work is what led her to the multi-faceted modalities of somatic work. Seeking connection to others and herself, she is a lifelong student of intercultural communication and the holistic approach to body, spirit, breath and mind. She has spent much of her life linking her love for community & passion for writing to a deeper understanding of wellness.

As someone who has gathered sensory and somatic tools for self-development, Kelsey desires for all people to see how applicable and available are tools such as mindfulness, breathwork, and perception through the senses.

Hailing from Pennsylvania’s Appalachian Mountains, Kelsey completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in 2018 at Colorado’s cambio. Yoga Studio, ten years after attending her first hot yoga class in New York City. She earned her 850- hour neuromuscular massage therapist license at the Colorado Institute of Massage Therapy with the September 2021 cohort. Kelsey holds a Bachelors Degree in Communication and Women’s and Ethnic Studies from the University of Colorado and aims to live a life of love and respect for others, herself, and pachamama earth. While living in pockets across the country and world, she was drawn time and again to Colorado Springs, which she now considers her home.

Please introduce yourself, either in the comments or shoot me a DM! I’d love to meet you 🫶🏽