Yogis Uncovered | Meet Ariel
In this edition of Yogis Uncovered, we sit down with our newest instructor, Ariel, to learn about the journey that brought her to the mat. Originally from New Jersey and now calling the desert home, Ariel brings a unique perspective on body confidence, movement, and the art of living authentically.
From her creative roots in the world of cosplay to her professional background as an exotic dancer, Ariel has long embraced the beauty of nudity and artistic expression. For her, yoga is a vital tool for mindfulness, a way to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of calm and a “live and let live” philosophy. In this interview, get to know Ariel, her love for the restorative power of Yin, and how she found freedom in her own skin.
“Yoga has taught me to be more mindful. It’s taught me to practice my breathing if I’m having anxiety.”
My name is Ariel and I’m originally from Jersey.
What was it like growing up in New Jersey?
Growing up in Jersey, it was fun. It had its moments. But the weather was not the best. I don’t miss the cold. I just miss my friends.
Tell us a funny or interesting story from when you were growing up.
Well, one of the things I’ve always been interested in growing up was cosplay. And my first convention was New York Comic-Con. I went by myself and I dressed up. I made the character myself.
How long have you been practicing yoga, and what first inspired you to start?
I’ve been doing yoga probably for like a good year and a half, almost two years. I’ve always loved anything to do with body movement. And when I moved out to Vegas, I started going to this Pilates studio, and they started offering yoga.
What is your favorite type of yoga?
I do like Yin yoga a lot. I feel like the more I’m practicing, the better I’m getting at it. It’s very relaxing. Especially when I’m done with class, I feel so calm. I feel like I want to go to sleep.
What emotional or mental health benefits have you observed from practicing yoga?
The mental benefits of yoga [is that it] makes me feel more calm. I feel like I can face more challenges because of it. And the different stretches I do help me get through the day.
What has yoga taught you?
Yoga has taught me to be more mindful. It’s taught me to practice my breathing if I’m having anxiety. And just taught me how to stretch better.
How did you become comfortable with nudity? Is that something you’ve already achieved, or is it an ongoing process?
I actually don’t mind being naked. I used to be a dancer, an exotic dancer, so being naked in front of people isn’t a big deal. Nudity can also be very artistic. As far as growing up and with nudity, my mom was very conservative and didn’t talk to us about a lot of things. A lot of things I had to learn on my own. When I finally became an exotic dancer, I was living on my own and had my own place and that’s what I decided to do ’cause I’ve always been okay with nudity. It was my family that found me weird.
Are you more of a homebody or do you prefer going out?
It all depends on my mood. Sometimes I like to stay in, but especially if it’s a really fun event going on, I’ll definitely go even if it’s by myself.
What is a motto that you live by?
Live and let live. Because of just who I am as a person overall. I don’t judge anybody for anything unless it’s [harmful].
How can our members find out more about you?
You can find me on Instagram at @aribelle91
*this interview has been edited for brevity and clarity