Hayley G. 40yrs.
I began attending Clare’s Peaceful Monkey classes in April 2019. I was really nervous because I didn’t want to be the person that didn’t know what to do or needed the most accommodations. Hanging from rings, animal walks, handstands...would I be able to do any of these things? It only took one class for me to realize, yes! I could do ALL of these activities. By attending Peaceful Monkey classes, I have gained strength and confidence. I have more energy and mobility. I have more stamina than ever before. I have never been someone who likes to exercise. But while "playing games" during class, I actually find myself having fun. Being a part of the community has made taking care of myself, physically, something I look forward to three times a week! Clare is committed to making all of her classes accessible to anyone who attends. She is approachable, honest and encouraging. She provides a supportive space where I know belong and am important. Not only have I gained strength through the physical work done in the class, but I have the opportunity in each class to reset; be mindful of my internal monologue which has always been a barrier to my success in the past. Linda, 69yrs
The classes at Peaceful Monkey have been a revelation about various forms of exercise and a tremendous benefit to my fitness. As a retiree, I recognize the importance of strength, balance, and mobility for those in my age range. Clare does a remarkable job of accommodating exercises for my abilities, while still helping me to make progress. Since I was a career-long educator, I can readily identify Clare's excellent teaching techniques and high level of knowledge. She is always well-prepared for classes, demonstrates all exercises (including modifications for every level of ability), and pays individual attention to each student. Within a short period of time, I noticed significant improvement in all areas of my physical condition. Finally, the Peaceful Monkey studio is beautifully appointed with a wide range of equipment for both Yoga and Move classes. I unconditionally and highly recommend classes at Peaceful Monkey! Parker C. 12yrs Shared by his Mom Melissa C.
My son started Peaceful Monkey one year ago after a traumatic brain injury. We originally started to help build up strength. He has gained so much more than just strength though. He’s more in control of his body, he’s gained the confidence to try new, hard things and he’s made some great new friends. I cannot say enough good things about Clare and her classes. She makes everything so much fun and the kids learn so much about themselves. Dan, 40yrs
I came to Peaceful Monkey with a single goal: How can I prepare myself physically and mentally for the next 40 years of my life by moving more and “prehabbing” my body to prevent further injuries. A little background: I was an athlete growing up (mostly soccer) and even into my late 30’s (eek). I still have the athlete mindset, but I’m more of a hockey weekend warrior now with a history of knee and recent shoulder injuries with a little extra weight (more or less). I also have a toddler and want to keep up with him into my 40’s and beyond. Working with Clare 1on1, the last few months has been incredible. She has a heart for intentional living, and it shows in our sessions. Each week she is prepared, encouraging me to push outside my boundaries at a pace that helps me build confidence, and most importantly, to me, the sessions are fun and creative! (I’m not a person who enjoys working out) Peaceful Monkey is more than a movement or workout studio - it’s a holistic approach to living. Clare focuses on rebuilding functional movements (i.e., walking, squatting, lifting a child, and even jumping) while applying an element of thoughtfulness. For instance, it’s not uncommon to journal during or after a session. It’s friendly to all ages (my 4 old boy loves the kids’ classes and is always asking to come back). Clare is not only an owner/instructor but a student, too - I highly appreciate this! Somedays, we are on the mat working on posture, flexibility, and body-weight movements. Other days are hanging from rings like a gymnast, which was super intimidating at first, going through a progression that feels like playing at the playground more than a workout. Lilly, 42yrs
My two daughters age 10 and 12 have been going to classes at Peaceful Monkey for the past year. Clare is an amazing instructor...she is kind, patient and encouraging all at the same time. Her classes incorporate movements to help with physical strength, coordination and conditioning. Clare also spends time focusing on inner strength through journaling and other exercises. She intentionally spends time to develop her students confidence and helps them face new challenges both physically and emotionally. I can’t say enough great things about Peaceful Monkey and especially Clare. This is the one activity my girls hate to miss. |
Annie K. 61yrs.
Benefits of treatments with Clare Karp are long-standing. I completed a three- session package a month ago, and I am still experiencing improved range of motion and relief after a year-long challenge of constricted movement and chronic moderate pain. Best of all, my nervous system remains reset. Clare Karp’s healing space is a conservatory of comfort. Clients are surrounded by tropical greenery and enveloped in the warmth of sunshine. Clare’s skillful and respectful mastery of healing modalities reorganized fascial structures in my neck, shoulders and obliques - expanding my right shoulders range of motion. A few years ago, I earned continuing education credit for attending a two-day course introducing applications of Polyvagal Theory to treating trauma in the mental health counseling field. Little did I know, these same principles are utilized by Clare Karp and other bodyworkers to return ease and motility to the human anatomy. Chris, 38yrs.
My classes at Peaceful Monkey are the highlight of my week. The Peaceful Monkey class blends together really beneficial movements that help me realign and stretch, while also building strength. These classes are also fun – Clare builds in games and challenges that make you smile while also getting a workout. When I leave Peaceful Monkey, I know I’ve gotten a good workout, I feel refreshed physically, and most importantly, I’m always in a great mental space. The last thing I’d add is that Clare is really helpful in designing exercises and stretches for people who are rehabilitating injuries. She’s always asks about, and remains cognizant of, each person’s physical well-being and any ailments, and helps frame the workout in the most beneficial way. Anne M. 59yrs
Peaceful Monkey’s Clare Karp walks the walk. And plays the play. Sparked by curiosity and committed to self-development, Clare engages in challenging movement practices that are embodied in classes she teaches. I’m a yogi, runner, cyclist and dancer wannabe. And, at almost sixty, I’m a Peaceful Monkey “player,” too. Studio classes are Sudoku for the body: My hand-eye coordination, core strength, agility and balance are in the best shape they’ve ever been. I’m holding handstands, somersaulting on suspended rings and conditioning muscle groups with seated rope pulls. Perceptions about aging and injury recovery are turned upside down--literally and figuratively at the Peaceful Monkey. Since attending movement classes focused on the upper body, I’ve learned to: •hold myself suspended from rings with toes pointed toward the ceiling •maintain aerial static and active holds •lengthen “hang-time” on handstands My forearms, shoulders and back are stronger than ever. Remnants of previous elbow and rotator cuff injuries have disappeared, and I re-gained range-of-motion in my throwing arm. Most importantly, I enjoy a flipping good time as part of the multi-generational Peaceful Monkey community! Caroline, 34yrs
In December 2018, I was sidelined with a quad injury and couldn’t run. After running for 11 years and 17 marathons, I was devastated. Clare talked me into giving Peaceful Monkey class a try as a compliment to rehab to get me back running. I went and I fell in love. After a few weeks, I was cleared to run again, but continued with Peaceful Monkey class. It has given me core strength I cannot get by going to the gym. It is deep core, movement core, stability core, and it’s fun! The balance work we do on our bare feet has taken my running to new levels. Muscle groups that used to give out late in races is now strong and my form is better. And the balance work has helped with my trail running, I’m much more stable on uneven ground. The thing I love most about class is how Peaceful Monkey teaches us to talk to ourselves. No judgement from others and no judgement from self. Frequently, we are doing a simple move that I cannot seem to master and there is a gentle reminder to watch what you are saying to yourself. This reminder makes me pause, start positive self talk and the movement becomes easier. This skill has followed me into run races as well as life. I am so grateful for the skills physical and mental Peaceful Monkey has taught me. I’m hooked! Stephanie, 40yrs.
Peaceful Monkey provides a positive and supportive environment for my son to strengthen his coordination and self-confidence. Clare has a unique approach, offering a structured environment while also encouraging the children to explore their physical and emotional capabilities. Peaceful Monkey offers a beautiful and comfortable waiting area, where my younger son is able to stay engaged among the variety of toys and books available to him. We look forward to our classes each week! Vallie, 38yrs
I LOVE the classes at Peaceful Monkey. They are both challenging and fun and I always feel good when I leave. For me, Clare’s classes remind me how to both stretch and strengthen muscles that often are overlooked in traditional exercise classes. Clare is great at ensuring proper form and providing cues to be better and get more out of each exercise, and overall her classes have become a necessary part of my weekly routine. I highly recommend finding out for yourself how great you’ll feel after a few classes at Peaceful Monkey! |