HILLARY SURIEL
Yoga Instructor
CREDS
Yoga Teacher Trainings:
200-Hour YTT | Yoga Vida, NYC
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Education:
M.A. International Business and Politics | NYU, NYC
B.A. Business Administration and International Relations | City College of New York
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a bit about Hillary
Hillary has been practicing yoga for over 10 years and teaching in the Bronx for over 3. Her teaching style is rooted in the foundations of anatomy, alignment, and the mechanics of movement (think: why do my knees splay out when I try to backbend?!) Hillary teaches with a focus on accessible, open-level instruction while providing direct and concise cues, creative and challenging transitions, and a deep respect for the fundamentals. Every class offers insight to help you understand how the body uses movement to navigate space whether you are on the mat, at your desk, or running to catch the bus. Arrive to class prepared to check your ego, build strong foundations, and move with intention.
four to the core: instructor Q&A
How did your yoga journey start, and what does it look like today?
I began practicing yoga at a studio local to my university because I needed to fill a large gap in my schedule, and drop-ins were $5 (if you can believe it!!!!) I found myself drawn again and again to one particular teacher, whose voice and style resonated so deeply with me. With time, I came to understand how vast is the overlap between what happens on and off the mat - how moving our bodies with care and intention can facilitate practically every single aspect of our daily lives. I developed a respect and love for the practice that I don’t believe I had assigned to anything else before. What started as a pastime, has become one of the most integral parts of my daily life.
What’s something outside of yoga that inspires your practice?
Being a wife and a mother has allowed me to broaden my perspective on what it means to extend grace, navigate through the unknown, and lead with compassion.
What do you hope students take away from your classes?
A greater sense of awareness for how the decisions you make off your mat affect those you can make while on your mat and vice versa.
In three words, how would you describe the vibe of your classes?
Methodical. Insightful. Inclusive.
