AURA GARVER

I was raised in the mountains of Northern New Mexico and have been an athlete all my life. I was a champion collegiate High Jumper for the University of New Mexico and went on to compete in volleyball, triathlons, cycling and running as an adult. Helping others become fit and expand their own physical horizons was a natural progression from my own exercise background. I use my extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology to ensure safety and efficacy. I also believe fitness can (and should) be fun and functional. Regardless of whether I am coaching young athletes or guiding mature clients in functional fitness for life, I believe in taking responsibility for our own wellbeing. I believe in moving our bodies with a mindset of curiosity, compassion, and positive reinforcement. If we understand our own inner workings, and feel strong and comfortable in our bodies, we can feel capable and confident in our lives! Feeling good in our skin affects all other aspects of our being. 

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I was initially drawn to yoga in my twenties as a way to balance sports injury and migraines, but fell in love with the full dimensionality of the practice. It not only helps me balance my body in healthy way, but has connected me with peace, presence and mindfulness. I include mantra, pranayama, and meditation in my own daily practice. I am primarily a vinyasa “flow” style teacher. I love using choreography and music to create an experiential class that uplifts your heart. I weave a lot of intention, metaphor, and story into my classes. It's always been important to me to teach yoga in a way that feels accessible, welcoming and comfortable for a wide range of people.  My classes are infused with humor, reassurance and creativity because I believe we can take our yoga seriously, but ourselves lightly.  

 

I absolutely love offering fitness, meditation and yoga retreats! Keep an eye on the retreat page of this website for what's coming next!

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I am not currently accepting new one-on-one personal training clients, but I am accepting appointments for Wellness Advising. ​I am taking my 23+ years of experience and helping clients address their own health, wellness and life balance in a warm, supportive and holistic way. If you'd like to schedule a session, reach out and let's talk!

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Here's the rundown of my credentials:

Personal Trainer, American Council on Exercise (1999)

Member, International Sports Sciences Association

Prenatal Specialist Certification

Flexibility Specialist Certification

Exercise for Parkinson's Disease & Neurological Disorders Specialist

Senior Fitness Specialist and Fitness for Aging Populations Certification

Brain Health Trainer Specialty Certification

Licensed Athletic Coach by the State of New Mexico and the New Mexico Athletic Association

Level 3 Certified Yogafit Instructor (1999)

Level 3 Baptiste Power Yoga Teacher Training (2001)

Additional study in Ashtanga, Iyengar, and Vinyasa

Yoga Alliance Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher

Founder and co-leader of the Aurafitness Registered Yoga School (Yoga Alliance RYT200) (Established 2014)

Wellness Advisor Certification (2019)

Ongoing student of breathwork and meditation (various teachers and guides)

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