Local Spotlight: Nirvana Yoga and Wellness Center
Interview with Erica Frasco
Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Erica Frasco; owner of Nirvana Yoga and Wellness in Wayne, NJ. Nirvana Yoga and Wellness was founded in 2012 in Montville, NJ. Since then, they have been able to expand into Wayne. During our interview, we talk about how she helps others on their health and wellness journeys, some common misconceptions about yoga, as well as her recommendations to those new to exercising and yoga.
Dr. Esemplare: Why did you take over as owner of Nirvana Yoga and Wellness in Wayne and become an instructor?
Erica Frasco: My yoga journey first started when my cousin, who is a yoga instructor, told me I should try a yoga class because of my gymnastics & dance background. I decided to give it a try since I was looking to stay fit throughout college. I immediately fell in love with it and the teachers at Nirvana. When the Wayne location opened and I moved back home after college, I ended up going to the studio multiple times a week! I love how yoga incorporates a calming aspect with each movement. From attending college in the city and then getting a full time job that required me to commute, my life was always going, going, going. I truly looked forward & still look forward to practicing and having time to decompress. I have been practicing yoga for about 8 years now and decided to get my certification to become a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT200) just this year! The dedication to practicing and learning all about the anatomy of Yoga really took my practice to the next level physically and mentally. I am also certified in Aerial yoga!
This year with everything going on, the founder of Nirvana was looking for some additional help managing the Wayne studio. This studio has been such a big part of my life and I would have hated to see the doors close so I reached out and asked what would be needed if I stepped in. As I am currently working from home and will be for the foreseeable future, I saw this as a huge opportunity to learn what it’s like to run a small business and gain some more insight on the yoga industry.
Dr. Esemplare: What would you say is the #1 misconception about yoga? Why do you think that is?
Erica Frasco: I definitely would have to say the #1 misconception is that yoga is boring and too slow, but what many people don’t realize is yoga is so much more than the poses you are doing in class. The practice of yoga should continue off your mat as well. Yoga is about bringing peace into your life mentally, physically and emotionally. It’s about disconnecting and finding time for yourself; being able to breathe throughout the movements and learning all about controlling your breath to provide you the most benefits of each pose. The purpose of it is to help you be able to ground yourself while doing the movements. A lot of people think that yoga is all about how long you can hold a pose and how the pose looks. I even went into it with that mindset; however, I now know it is about connecting your mind, breath, and movement. Many will be surprised how much these factors will change their lives if they keep an open mind on and off the mat.
For those just starting out, yoga can be intimidating. I always recommend trying different instructors and class types to see what fits your personal style best and do not give up after the first class! Things always get better with practice. Some people worry beginner classes will not be challenging or again boring and slow, but beginner classes are the best to teach you the proper alignment first and then work towards building up strength.
Dr. Esemplare: What are your top three recommendations for people who want to start taking yoga?
Erica Frasco:
I would recommend taking a beginner class and as I mentioned before try every class type and teacher! I do not recommend taking a hot yoga class right away as they are more difficult because of the heat and could cause breathing steady to be a challenge. Get the basics down first and understand where your body is at, THEN you can try the more challenging poses.
If the beginner class turns you off, that is okay. You can start with a regular class, but keep an open mind and listen to your body! Keep the breath fluid and don’t worry about what other people are doing. All our instructors at Nirvana are well versed in their yoga practice. They offer modifications for each movement/pose and are great at tailoring the class to the needs of their students.
We also recommend trying a restorative class for those who want to start taking yoga. These classes are in fact slower, but they help you to completely decompress and relax. Restorative classes are great for those with healing injuries and those who are looking to relieve muscle tension, improve mobility and flexibility.
Dr. Esemplare: How can we learn more about you?
Erica Frasco: You can learn more about me by coming to one of my classes at Nirvana! You can learn more about Nirvana by visiting our website at nirvanawellnessnj.com to learn more about our mission, our class and spa offerings and schedules. Give us a follow us on Instagram at Nirvanayogawellnessnj and like us on facebook!
I want to thank Erica for taking the time out of her busy day to allow me to learn from her about the practice of yoga and how it can benefit people on their way to a healthier lifestyle. If you are interested in incorporating yoga into your daily practice or your workout routine, pay a visit to Nirvana Yoga and Wellness in Wayne, NJ. They have classes for all ages and are taking all precautions to keep their clients safe during in-person classes. Not ready for an in-person class? Virtual classes are also offered for anyone that prefers to practice yoga in their own home.
