Workshops
Workshops & Events
Arlùnviji is an official teacher training site for GYROTONIC®, GYROKINESIS® and Pilates Sports Center. Deepen your understanding and embodiment of these amazing modalities and share in the joy of changing lives with a career as a movement teacher!
We offer a supportive environment for focused learning that is student-centered with a playful approach. Learning can be fun and inspiring!
Price: $4900 for full comprehensive course. Modular programming is also available.
PSC Pilates Teacher Training program teaches a contemporary approach to the method developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920’s; one that preserves the essence of the original technique but incorporates today’s knowledge and principals. Small class sizes with review and anatomy provided.
Enjoy a specialized Arlùnviji retreat with Nikki Alstedter. We explore the best things in life such as, pleasurable movement experiences, the beauty of nature, high quality food, soulful meditation and creative expression! Join us for an upcoming retreat to deepen and release the contractions from work, anxiety and stress. Lets rejuvinate and return home to your true essence to be nourished by boundless source energy and to liberate your heart song.
J. Quest
“Working with Nikki has been nothing short of profound. Her knowledge and wisdom of the body’s physical and energetic systems, and how she applies them, have increased my understanding of my own body, and how it works, tremendously. It has been an absolute blessing to have the opportunity to study with her and my entire being (mind, body, and soul) are grateful. Experiencing her teachings has led to greater awareness within myself, yielding greater results in the realm of health and wellness in my day to day life; and even moment to moment movements!”
Jeremy W.- Attorney Age-65
“I can’t say enough good things about Nikki and what I’ve learned from her. She is a master of her craft, with a wonderful gift for raising consciousness about how the body works. I came to her years ago, suffering from the long-term negative effects of a herniated disc. I was limited in my movements, not because I had to be, but because I was afraid not to be! In her gentle yet authoritative style, she trained me to use the various muscles in my body in a holistic way, in a continuing stream of movements that were always fresh and challenging. Nikki inspires confidence and has a great talent for explaining, for connecting mental images with body movements. She’s a perfect teacher for both beginners (as I was) and more advanced Pilates students (as I became). In fact she’s a fine teacher of other teachers–I’ve studied with two of her excellent proteges!
There seem to be thousands of Pilates teachers out there these days, but there are only a handful of genuine masters. Nikki is one of them.
Eileen O, Talent Manager Age 62
Nikki Alstedter is my friend, counselor, healer & my Gyrotonic instructor of many years. Working with Nikki has changed my life in so many ways. My once weak, arthritic 62 y.o. body is now strong, flexible and best of all, pain free! Nikki has an amazing way of ‘reading’ her client’s body. She is so intuitive and attentive. I am constantly amazed as she intuits the condition of my body and then focuses her attention on healing me or strengthening me. Her communication level is astounding. She is able to explain simply & instruct me in a way that I can understand and follow. I find myself able to execute several difficult series of movements that I could not imagine doing before I started working with Nikki. Nikki is kind. Nikki is funny. With Nikki, I can laugh & I can cry. She is a true healer & an extraordinary teacher.
Christine S, Corporate professional/Mother -Age 38
Thank YOU Nikki for the woman’s retreat! I’m coming back to reality quickly jumping into a business travel workweek. I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciated and enjoyed the process and work we did this weekend! I was so excited when I came home and talked to my husband for hours about the experience.
You made the experience safe for me to have an open heart. You truly are gifted and I was so pleased to be a part of the journey. I came home uplifted and with a positive “vision” on what is ahead for me and my life. I still have a lot to work through but you helped me take that first step. Letting go of the past, looking forward, and being present. Thank you for making me feel safe, and taking me through a process that I will never forget.
Helena H, Pilates Master Teacher / Mother Age 41
Hmm. Maybe because I’m still trying to find a moment in my life where I can stop and think a thought without being interrupted by my lovely children or my husbands need for me to be his partner in crime.
That was what the weekend at Nikki’s woman’s retreat was, all about me! I stopped to feel my own body and mind that had so sadly been forgotten from running myself ragged in LA. I arrived on Friday evening after a long day off work, slowly my spirit decided to land with me. Time started to stand still. The weekend was like a dream. Nikki was able to feel all the women’s energies as we moved from one activity to the other. We all just went with the flow. Nothing felt rushed or put into a crazy schedule. All walls came down and feelings were shared and explored amongst the women that were gathered. I found things about myself again that had been forgotten or just simply pushed aside because more “imported” things had to be taken care of.
I can’t pick a favorite moment of the weekend since there were so many moments that touched my different senses.
The retreat weekend was like a favorite vacation, the kind you think about a lot and want to relive over and over again.
Pamela S, Television Executive Age 50
The Womans Retreat with Nikki Alstedter
Jeff T, Architect Age 60
I want you to know how much you mean to Ellen and I. As you know, having worked with us for many years, that we were both in need of physical and spiritual rebirth and you were right there to guide us along. I in particular was a real mess and took a long time to begin to recover and then had a setback and started all over. You helped us both at a time when we didn’t really know what we needed but provided the support and guidance for our rebirths. I know Ellen and I wouldn’t be in such a good place if it hadn’t been for you and for this I am profoundly grateful to you.
Katie R, Dancer, Studio owner | Pilates & Gyrotonic Trainer Age 33
My experience with Nikki Alstedter at Arlunviji for the woman retreat is invaluable to me. I needed to take a break from the hustle and chaos of life, unplug, and move my body for me. Nikki’s energy and the beautiful essence of the retreat helped everyone to set clear intentions, move their bodies, connect with nature, and nourish ourselves and each other all weekend. In addition I got to know several women I would have never met and will continue to keep in contact with. I can’t remember a more relaxing yet active and healing weekend.I will definitely be going back again.
Bonnie L, oil painter/graphic designer Age 64
Initially I signed up for private Gyrotonic sessions with Nikki with the goals of becoming stronger and more physically toned. I could not have imagined that, because of Nikki’s rare excellence as a teacher, I would gain so much more than improvements in my physical strength and appearance. From the beginning Nikki intuited that I might be open to going far to fold Gyrotonic into my everyday life, so she took me to my limits and beyond. My sessions with Nikki continue to be challenging and sparked with revelations.
What is Arlùnviji?
Arlunviji is a movement studio that is dedicated to helping YOU be more present to living a more embodied life and enjoying the art of transformation. Moving through life is truly an art, as movement is an essential element of living. To be balanced I need to eat healthy, get enough sleep, be inspired, express my emotions, make money, honor spiritual needs, be in nature, explore new places/cultures, create quiet time for meditation and reflection, have healthy relationships and MOVE my body the way it is designed to move. The beautiful challenge is to do ALL of this in a way that is most fulfilling. How do you do it?
In our fast paced world it is more important then ever to slow down, connect inward and build a relationship within to learn how to master the art of living. Our body is an amazing vehicle of intelligence that wants nothing more than to show up for us in stability, strength, ease, comfort and flexibility. At Arlùnviji you will learn how to be more present to and care for your body through all the phases of life.
“It is your body, do not leave home without it” – Nikki Alstedter
Where does the word Arlùnviji come from?
Arlùnviji is a word I created 20 years ago while gazing at the beauty of an egg shaped moon. I was in awe as I could see the moon transforming and blossoming fuller right before my eyes. I was reminded of how we are always in the process of movement and constant change, shedding and becoming full in new ways.
This word has been with me over the years and I finally decided to do a little research on it. To my pleasant surprise I learned it has some interesting origins. It just so happens to be a colorful combination of two cultures rich with values that resonate with the essence of what we offer at Arlùnviji. Creativity, dance, playfulness, knowledge, energy, healing, spirit, art, consciousness, passion and community.
• Lùn comes from the Latin root meaning Moon
• Viji is the Hindu word for Victorious
As it turns out, this made up word Ar-lùn-viji loosely translated means Victorious Moon!
The moon is fluid and holds both aspects of the masculine and feminine, the moon absorbs and reflects the light of the sun. Therefore, it is both active and receptive which is a great symbol for moving the body, healing and empowered transformation.
Arlùnviji reminds us that there is an art to conscious transformation, that we can be in relationship with the inevitable changing forces of life and that we can create the results and life we desire. On your journey towards a fuller more victorious life we can assist you at Arlùnviji in the art of transforming your body and being!
Looking forward to moving with you!
Blessings,
Nikki Alstedter
Nikki Alstedter is a masterful teacher and guide in the art of transformational movement and bioenergetic healing. Her souls’ unique gifts combined with years of study and experience bring a genuinely fun, energetically dynamic and engaging experience to those who desire to learn greater ease and better function in their body and being.
Her approach is one of partnership, where together we creatively explore the layers of our Spirit (intuitive/creativity), Soul (higher mind/psycho-spiritual) and Soma (body/bio-energetics) and how these layers energetically interface within the dance of inhabiting our deepest essential nature in the movement of our lives.
Nikki Alstedter has been blessed to have a professional career in the movement and healing arts for over 2 decades. As an entrepreneur she is co-owner of Pilates Studio City in Studio City, CA and founder/owner of Arlùnviji Transformative Movement Studio in Santa Barbara, CA.
Her educational path began with an associate’s degree in Science and Art from Utah State University (Eastern Campus) which then led to a career as a professional dancer/choreographer and aerial artist in Los Angeles, CA. Fascinated with how the body can heal through movement, she furthered her studies in Pilates, massage therapy, Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis, nutrition, Quantum Kinetics, bio-energetic bodywork systems and techniques, spiritual practices, Nia and the Franklin Method.
• Pilates Certification at Long Beach Dance Conditioning 1998
• Pilates Method Alliance Certified Teacher and Educational Member
• Pilates Sport Center – Pilates Master Teacher Trainer
• Level 3 Educator of the Franklin Method®
• Level 1 Pre-Trainer & Level 2 Certified Instructor of GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®
• Specialized equipment certifications: Jump-Stretch Board, Archway and GYROTONER®
• Level 1 Certified Pre-Trainer of GYROKINESIS®
• Certified Blue belt trainer of the Nia Technique®
• Advanced studies and certificates in Massage Therapy
• Quantum Kinetic Energetic Bodywork Practitioner/Educator
• QRA Nutrition Practitioner.
• Advanced Spiritual Mentorship with Author & Evolutionary Mystic MeghanDon,
• Advanced Energetic Bodywork Mentorship Dr. Kevin Michael, Dr. Tim Barreto
• Co-Author of Pain-Free Posture Handbook
“I am passionate about movement, the body and the whole being. Along with knowledge, experience, goofiness and a playful caring heart I love to connect with people. To guide a movement experience that awakens deep truths about how we work and who we really are. Through movement, I teach and learn how to embrace, embody, engage and be present to living a life that thrives!”
The Pilates Method is an approach in mind & body integration that was created by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. The fundamental principles focus on balance, concentration, control, centered awareness, fluid movements, and breath. Pilates enhances core strength that increases flexibility, coordination and spacial awareness. The repertoire is performed as a mat class or on specialized equipment utilizing springs for resistance. Pilates engages the whole person, not just the muscles. For every body, from an athlete to mother, Pilates will develop and enhance stamina, posture, alignment & core strength for elite performance to everyday activities.
The Pilates method uses specifically designed equipment and floor exercises to promote uniform development of the body. This allows weaker muscles to develop instead of the body continuously relying on the stronger muscles to do the work. Pilates focuses on the core muscles first, specifically abdominals, butt and back; in a sense, working the muscles from the inside out. This achieves and maintains a balanced aligned body.
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
The Gyrotonic Method is an exercise system, using Gyrokinesis exercises as the basis to exercise the musculature while mobilizing and articulating the joints. The uniqueness of the system is that it simultaneously stretches and strengthens your body with minimal effort, while increasing range of motion and developing coordination. The Gyrotonic Expansion System was conceived by Juliu Horvath using key principles of gymnastics, swimming, ballet, and yoga through which major muscle groups are worked in an integrated manner. The system is supported by equipment designed around the human body to allow total freedom in movement, without restriction of speed or versatility, thereby enhancing coordination, strength and flexibility. Unlike most conventional exercise equipment where linear or isolated movements are performed, the Gyrotonic Expansion System emphasizes multiple joint articulations without compression. Currently, the Gyrotonic Expansion System is used worldwide by dancers, athletes, and in rehabilitation facilities, as well as by people from all walks of life, age and health condition.
Visit the official Gyrotonic site at Gyrotonic.com
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
GYROTONIC®, GYROTONIC® & Logo, GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®, GYROKINESIS®, GYROTONER®, and The Art of Exercising and Beyond® are registered trademarks of Gyrotonic Sales Corp and are used with their permission.
The Da Vinci BodyBoard™ uses resistance bands that allow for more varied movements and engages smaller muscle groups that are often ignored in traditional fitness routines. Using the boards creates “Full Body Integrity”; long, lean muscles and joint protection with no weak spots. The DaVinci BodyBoard™ brings a fun full-body challenge to add to your current Arlùnviji workouts!
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
The Franklin Method® uses dynamic imagery, anatomical embodiment and educational skills to create lasting positive change in your body and mind. The Franklin Method® was founded by Eric Franklin in 1994 and is taught all over the world, including the Universities of Vienna, Cologne, Karlsruhe and the Juilliard School in New York. The Franklin Method® is recognized by the health providers in Switzerland and is a regularly seen at Dance, Pilates, Yoga and Physiotherapy conferences. One of the greatest discoveries of the 21st century is the plasticity of the brain; that the lives we live shape the brain we develop. The Franklin Method® is at the forefront of practical neuro-plasticity; showing you how to use your brain to improve your body’s function. It teaches you how to harness the transforming power of the mind. It can be applied to improve all of your abilities. It all starts with the knowledge that we have the power to change.
We will utilize balls, bands and bones to explore and perform fun exercises that have profound results and can be integrated into your daily activities. The Franklin Method® teaches dynamic alignment and how to move your body with maximum efficiency to keep your body youthful and energized. Your whole body is part of a symphony of coordinated movement. In a sense, your posture is reinvented at every instant. In every moment, the ideal combination of limbs, joints, gravity, moving parts, connective tissue, and muscle must be found and directed by your brain and nervous system.
Come learn how to liberate your neck by releasing your shoulders, understand and embody the bone rhythms of the pelvis, ease pain, embody the function of your hip and knee joints and harness the POWER of your CORE and your MIND!
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
Gyrokinesis Method exercises allow one to work on the entire body through seven natural elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, left side, right side, left twist, right twist and circular, as well as all other joint articulation. This approach systematically and gently works the joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating movements. These movements stimulate the body’s internal organs while different corresponding breathing patterns are integrated along with the movements. Fluidity is the key. Postures are not held for long periods of time. Instead, postures are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, making exercises appear and feel more like a dance and swimming than like traditional yoga.
Nikki is the Master Trainer and owner of Arlùnviji. In the sections below, you will find her offerings. It is recommended for new students to start with an Intro Private Session. In this 60-minute private session, we will explore your specific movement goals, perform a postural, body and lifestyle assessment, then introduce you to the movement forms and equipment that best suits your needs. Options include Gyrotonic Method, Pilates, Franklin Method® and Da Vinci BodyBoard™. We also offer 60 or 90-minute Quantum Kinetics Bodywork sessions.
Looking for a group class setting? Don’t miss our weekly Gyrokinesis Method class. Sign up in the Classes section below.
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
Click here to learn more about Nikki!
In this 60-minute private session we will explore your specific movement, body and lifestyle goals while utilizing equipment that will best support you. Options include Gyrotonic Method, Pilates, Franklin Method ® and Da Vinci BodyBoard™.
Share a Semi-Private session with a friend and reap the benefits of a steady partner and a consistent workout schedule. The session will be custom-tailored to the individual needs of each participant. The equipment options include Gyrotonic Pulley Tower, Pilates Reformer, Pilates Cadillac and Da Vinci BodyBoard™.
We offer packages of 4 or 8 Private or Semi-Private sessions. Please email or call to discuss rates. Packages expire in 4 months. 24-hour cancellation policy applies to all bookings.
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
We currently offer a weekly Gyrokinesis Method class on Fridays at 10am. Learn more about Gyrokinesis in the “Gyrokinesis Method” section below.
If you have a group that would be interested in a Gyrokinesis Method, Da Vinci BodyBoard™, Pilates Mat and/or Franklin Method® class please contact us at (818)908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com.
*Packages expire in 4 months. 24-hour cancellation policy applies.
Quantum Kinetics “QK” is an energetic healing system that is a gentle hands-on approach utilizing the body’s electrical and myo-fascial system in relation to structural stability and wellness. Our session will be a 60 or 90-minute session focused on your body’s specific needs.
We offer packages of 4 or 8 QK sessions. Please email or call to discuss rates. Packages expire in 4 months. 24-hour cancellation policy applies to all bookings.
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
The Pilates Method is an approach in mind & body integration that was created by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. The fundamental principles focus on balance, concentration, control, centered awareness, fluid movements, and breath. Pilates enhances core strength that increases flexibility, coordination and spacial awareness. The repertoire is performed as a mat class or on specialized equipment utilizing springs for resistance. Pilates engages the whole person, not just the muscles. For every body, from an athlete to mother, Pilates will develop and enhance stamina, posture, alignment & core strength for elite performance to everyday activities.
The Pilates method uses specifically designed equipment and floor exercises to promote uniform development of the body. This allows weaker muscles to develop instead of the body continuously relying on the stronger muscles to do the work. Pilates focuses on the core muscles first, specifically abdominals, butt and back; in a sense, working the muscles from the inside out. This achieves and maintains a balanced aligned body.
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
The Gyrotonic Method is an exercise system, using Gyrokinesis exercises as the basis to exercise the musculature while mobilizing and articulating the joints. The uniqueness of the system is that it simultaneously stretches and strengthens your body with minimal effort, while increasing range of motion and developing coordination. The Gyrotonic Expansion System was conceived by Juliu Horvath using key principles of gymnastics, swimming, ballet, and yoga through which major muscle groups are worked in an integrated manner. The system is supported by equipment designed around the human body to allow total freedom in movement, without restriction of speed or versatility, thereby enhancing coordination, strength and flexibility. Unlike most conventional exercise equipment where linear or isolated movements are performed, the Gyrotonic Expansion System emphasizes multiple joint articulations without compression. Currently, the Gyrotonic Expansion System is used worldwide by dancers, athletes, and in rehabilitation facilities, as well as by people from all walks of life, age and health condition.
Visit the official Gyrotonic site at Gyrotonic.com
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
GYROTONIC®, GYROTONIC® & Logo, GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM®, GYROKINESIS®, GYROTONER®, and The Art of Exercising and Beyond® are registered trademarks of Gyrotonic Sales Corp and are used with their permission.
The Da Vinci BodyBoard™ uses resistance bands that allow for more varied movements and engages smaller muscle groups that are often ignored in traditional fitness routines. Using the boards creates “Full Body Integrity”; long, lean muscles and joint protection with no weak spots. The DaVinci BodyBoard™ brings a fun full-body challenge to add to your current Arlùnviji workouts!
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
The Franklin Method® uses dynamic imagery, anatomical embodiment and educational skills to create lasting positive change in your body and mind. The Franklin Method® was founded by Eric Franklin in 1994 and is taught all over the world, including the Universities of Vienna, Cologne, Karlsruhe and the Juilliard School in New York. The Franklin Method® is recognized by the health providers in Switzerland and is a regularly seen at Dance, Pilates, Yoga and Physiotherapy conferences. One of the greatest discoveries of the 21st century is the plasticity of the brain; that the lives we live shape the brain we develop. The Franklin Method® is at the forefront of practical neuro-plasticity; showing you how to use your brain to improve your body’s function. It teaches you how to harness the transforming power of the mind. It can be applied to improve all of your abilities. It all starts with the knowledge that we have the power to change.
We will utilize balls, bands and bones to explore and perform fun exercises that have profound results and can be integrated into your daily activities. The Franklin Method® teaches dynamic alignment and how to move your body with maximum efficiency to keep your body youthful and energized. Your whole body is part of a symphony of coordinated movement. In a sense, your posture is reinvented at every instant. In every moment, the ideal combination of limbs, joints, gravity, moving parts, connective tissue, and muscle must be found and directed by your brain and nervous system.
Come learn how to liberate your neck by releasing your shoulders, understand and embody the bone rhythms of the pelvis, ease pain, embody the function of your hip and knee joints and harness the POWER of your CORE and your MIND!
Please call (818) 908-4188 or email: info@arlunviji.com to schedule and for details regarding Private, Semi-Private and Quantum Kinetics sessions.
Gyrokinesis Method exercises allow one to work on the entire body through seven natural elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, left side, right side, left twist, right twist and circular, as well as all other joint articulation. This approach systematically and gently works the joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating movements. These movements stimulate the body’s internal organs while different corresponding breathing patterns are integrated along with the movements. Fluidity is the key. Postures are not held for long periods of time. Instead, postures are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, making exercises appear and feel more like a dance and swimming than like traditional yoga.