Describing Taryn Toomey in one succinct definition is almost as impossible as describing her increasingly popular yoga/cardio spiritual awakening class aptly named The Class.
If you haven’t heard of it (or taken one by now) The Class is a workout in which both your body and your mind experience such an awakening (dare I say exorcism?) that you leave it both physically exhausted and mentally empty – but in that good empty way. In the way that you release every fear, every drop of anger and resentment and every worry you carried into it.
How is this done?
Through simple, repetitive calisthenics and plyometrics, participants challenge the body to engage the mind. With guided instruction and carefully curated music, The Class invites students to witness their resistance to discomfort. The result is an expansive, heart-opening, body-strengthening release.
Like most women who have experienced an awakening and built a path of their own, Taryn started on a completely different one. For many years, Taryn built a successful career the fashion industry. Her increasing love of yoga, along with all her experiences as a woman, a mother and New Yorker informed the creation of The Class by Taryn Toomey, a mindbody fitness experience that guides students from their personal comfort zones to intuitive places of growth.
This week marks the anniversary of the infamous class and Words of Women is honored to interview Taryn and “get into the mind” of New York’s most enlightened teacher.
When was the last time you cried?
In Courtney Deri’s Sunday morning Class. Started in the middle of burpees and ended in the closing meditation.
Do you remember your dreams?
Yes. Sometimes.
What’s your favorite smell?
Rose
Describe your mood right now in one word.
Excited
Favorite quality in a woman?
Authenticity
Favorite quality in a man?
Kindness
What’s a word your friends would use to describe you?
Silly
What’s a word your family would use to describe you?
Strong
What are you reading right now?
Born To Run – Bruce Springsteen
What are you watching right now?
Nothing. I actually want a show – haven’t watch TV in so long – any suggestions?
Is there anything you’re really craving at the moment?
Juice Press Kale Chips
What is your greatest fear?
Losing my children
What historical figure do you most identify with?
Does Jane Fonda count? Or Florence Welch?
What is your most marked characteristic?
My raspy voice
Favorite motto?
I think I can. I think I can. I think I can…
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
Dishonesty
What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?
Self-loathing
What is one thing you couldn’t live without?
Music
Favorite work of art or piece of art that moves you?
The entire Arms and Armor room at the Met
What is your greatest regret?
Anything I have said or done when hurting that has hurt someone.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Your kids are hooked into your ‘wifi system’ and you are downloading information on how to “be” in this world. The unspoken has a major impact.
One thing you’d tell your 9-year-old self?
Life is going to be hard and you will be fine. You will give the pain a purpose.
If you could live in any film, which would you choose?
Practical Magic
What is your favorite part of your job?
Being around my community and team.
What is your least favorite part of your job?
Long business & financial meetings. Anything that makes me sit in a place for an extended period of time and can’t be creative.
What is one thing you want to overcome/conquer?
My impulse to “just do it myself”…
What do you do to combat stress?
Meditation & movement
What do you want to do tomorrow you couldn’t do today?
Pick up my kids from school
What’s your definition of success?
Having a positive impact on people & leaving the world a better place
***The Anniversary: The Class by Taryn Toomey Tribeca Studio
Join us to celebrate one year of movement & transformation in our flagship Studio. We will host special programming in our cozy Tribeca home that includes co-taught Classes and features Founding Teacher, Natalie Kuhn (@thisisnatalie), from the West coast!
Check out the Facebook Event – for more details
