Conversations with Celeste Gonzales

Today we’d like to introduce you to Celeste Gonzales.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My yoga story started when I was injured from a track meet. Yoga found me and quickly helped me get through recovery physically and mentally. It started with Yoga YouTube videos. I became infatuated with the practice and how it made me feel during and after. I noticed how it made me stronger, more flexible, and helped prevent injuries. It introduced me to meditation and how to quiet the mind when the noise was too loud. I continued the practice all through my middle school, high school and college on and off as it always grounded me through chaotic times.
In 2020, I was given an opportunity to offer yoga to diverse communities through my job in the mental health field. This really pushed me to get my 200 YTT so that I could share the gift and hopefully help someone feel seen, out of their head, and back in tune with their body. My official teaching journey started and it sparked interest in me teaching in other studios.
My curiosity led me to explore and get certified in other modalities such as Power, Yin, and Aerial yoga. Aerial yoga opened a whole new perspective, upside down and in the air, so I quickly became obsessed. I loved the way I felt so free, graceful, fluid, and strong all at the same time.
My practice on the mat and air started expanding including Pilates. I gained more body self awareness and control over my movements. Seeing how greatly this boosted my aerial practice, I decided to get certified and add it to modalities I taught.
Helping others understand their unique bodies and how to better their physical and mental health is a passion of mine and I’m so happy I get to teach others movement.
I’m currently teaching at The Studio Be! I love my team and the community it has introduced me to. I also host Aerial Teacher Trainings there 2x a year. Our next session will be on October 10th-12th.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been a linear path. It’s had its roller coasters, breakdowns, and lots of imposter syndrome. Moments where I didn’t honor my time and know my worth in teaching. It took me time to learn about boundaries and finding the balance between being assertive and soft.

I’ve been very thankful to be blessed with great mentors who care and guide me through my confusing moments. But especially my family and friends!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I currently am a Pilates and Aerial Yoga teacher. I guide students through mat & reformer Pilates , kettle bell, Yoga, and Aerial Yoga classes. I am known for being calm, intentional, and patient with my students. I love to help students gain body/self awareness, reach their fitness goals, tune into their breathe and disconnect from their busy lives to reset.
I am most proud of how I help others understand body movements with proper form and alignment, feel confident in themselves, and push them till they get the shakes! Making a positive impact on my community has and always is a goal for me.
What sets me apart from others is that I care, I notice the small details, and not intimidated to ask questions.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I tend to listen to a lot of affirmation videos on YouTube to help set my mind up for success to have a positive day.

Pricing:

• Leading an Aerial Yoga Teacher Training at The Studio Be ; 1,498.00

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thestudiobe.com/aerial-teacher-training
• Instagram: BeingCelestialmovement

Image Credits
– Gabby Meyer & Mel Tello from The Studio Be

– Lexis DeWitt