Press Page
Read reviews and the articles that Nicole has been published in.
Featured in Natural Awakenings & Sparta Living Magazine
"Now more than ever is when we need grounding and yoga the most. Nicole Zornitzer took a leap of faith during these unprecedented times and opened up a second location in Sparta overlooking the picturesque Upper Lake. Building a business from the ground up is no easy feat and doing it in an eco-conscious way can be even more challenging. From the moment you step foot into Niyama Yoga Shala’s bright, airy studio you’re brought back to simpler times. Times when we weren’t constantly overstimulated with news and social media, times when we could just let go of our “to-do” lists and be present.
In Sanskrit, the ancient sacred language of Hinduism, the word Niyama translates to positive duties or observances. The mission of the studio is to guide each practitioner through a practice that invokes inner peace through safe and mindful movement, meditation; as well as awareness of the physical and subtle body. Each of the instructors teach in a way that ensures proper alignment and the practice is built from the foundational expression of a pose with the options to go deeper or stay where you are and just experience.
The ambiance of the studio is one of serenity, and lord knows we need it more than ever these days. When you walk in you breathe a sigh of relief and your body immediately relaxes-it’s as if the space is energized in such a way that immediately allows you to leave your “baggage at the door.”
The health and safety is at the forefront of everyone's mind including Nicole’s. Entering into an indoor space with others who are not from your household can be a bit intimidating which is why the following protocol was put in place: The studio is outfitted with hospital grade air purifiers, windows which are kept open to allow air flow, hand sanitizer is available upon arrival as you are getting your temperature taken, all high touch surfaces are disinfected before and after each class, masks are worn by all until you are on your mat, practitioner capacity is set to 25%, and teachers are mindful of keeping a safe distance from the practitioners.
If you’ve been craving an in-studio practice; I promise you, you will not be disappointed. Looking forward to seeing you on the mat!"
— Viktoria
The Wait for Double G: A Tribute to Mom
Nicole reflects on loss & closure, a tribute to her mother this mother's day.
The Gunas
There are 3 primal qualities that are viewed by many as the measure to determine our spiritual growth, these are called the Gunas.
Courage: Braving Our Own Wilderness
Read the thoughts of our Founder, Yogini Nicole Zornitzer, on Brene Brown's book Braving the Wilderness. It's all about courage!
The Koshas
The definition of yoga is union of mind, body and spirit. The five koshas of the body are the foundation to creating this harmony of self.
Any Given Wednesday
How does one manage the constant fluctuation of emotion? How do we start the day in fear and try to end in gratitude?
6 Years Later
Each day I continue to unravel my purpose here and each year I experience brand new challenges that were not predictable.
Sunshine On My Shoulders
Nicole reflects on 2020; dealing with life and death, looking for the lessons, messages and moments that come with it.
The Power Of My Mat: Part II
The Power of My Mat is that it helps me through my struggles. This post inspires to get on your mat, even during the darkest of times.
The Graduate - 2020
I just completed my Ayurvedic Graduate Studies at The Maryland University of Integrative Health. Learn about my experience here.
Santosha: The Second Yogic Niyama
Santosha invites us into contentment by appreciating a calm center, a heart open in gratitude and practicing the paradox of “not seeking.”
What is Ayurveda?
In Sanskrit, Ayurveda is the science of life, it is the sister science of yoga. Read more about Ayurveda's purpose and the 3 basic Doshas.
Yamas & Niyamas
The yamas and niyamas can be viewed as yogic ethical disciplines that offer practitioners a means to move through life in a mindful way.
Svadhayaya
Svadhayaya is the art of study of self. This niyama is so important to me that it has become my company’s mission statement. Read & learn why.
Shine On
In one of our dharma talks, we were taught we need to accept where and who we are in this very moment in order to shine.
The Shades of Gratitude
Gratitude takes on many shades; let us all appreciate and cherish every one of those shades, even the darkest of them all.