LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: NEW JERSEY

by iana velez | May 24, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, TRAVEL

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: NEW JERSEY

Photos and Article by: WANDA BOGACKA-PLUCINSKI

TRAVEL

New Jersey, nicknamed the Garden State, is surprisingly a very culturally diverse state and it’s home to iconic names like Frank Sinatra, Albert Einstein, and Thomas Edison. It is not only diverse culturally, it has undeniable differences in its landscape too. The northern New Jersey landscape is mountainous and rocky, while southern New Jersey has beautiful flat farmland. But what New Jersey is probably most known for is its famous beaches, which stretch for 130 miles along the Atlantic Ocean coast, from Sandy Hook to Cape May. It’s also the home of some of the best yoga teachers and studios in the nation, who like me, happen to call New Jersey home.

Paul and Shire Lopresti are the owners of Yoga Revive yoga studio as well as Revive Juice and Bowls vegan restaurant in Marlton, New Jersey. Paul is a truly rare teacher, and has been dedicated to health and fitness his whole life. As a young adult, due to some pretty serious health problems that left him in debilitating pain, he tried yoga as a means of healing himself. After taking just a few classes, he was hooked and knew that yoga had the power to be transformative. So, in 2014, he got his Bikram yoga certification, followed by Barkan Hot vinyasa in 2017, and most recently cYoga in 2020. As a teacher, he is extremely passionate about helping everyday people, as well as athletes, overcome their struggles through the act of movement and mindset. I’ve taken many of his classes, and although his style of teaching is tough, it’s also deeply caring and compassionate. He’s a teacher who is not only well-trained, rooted in years of knowledge and experience, but also comes from a genuine place of understanding.

Paul is married to Shire, whose curiosity and love for yoga is what lead her to practicing hot Bikram yoga and eventually even meeting Paul. She fell in love with yoga and Paul! She went on to get certified in various styles of yoga, as well as inferno hot Pilates, kettlebells, barre, and yin yoga. Shire’s goal is to not only focus on the physical aspects of yoga and wellness, but to also continue to build a genuine community of yogis at the studio. After all, what’s a yoga studio if not for its community? Because Shire has an incredible intuition and deep sense of caring for others, she’s able to bring support, harmony, and love to the yoga studio. Most students will say that the studio is their home away from home and their community because she is able to create that for everyone who comes there. Shire is a certified cYoga teacher, as well as a meditation and breathwork instructor. She is also a dedicated student, expanding her knowledge under Jimmy Barkan.

Our third featured yogi is also a lawyer. Meet Jennifer Mohamed, affectionately known as Jen the Yoga Lawyer. Yes, you read that right! Jen has been practicing law since 1998, and teaching yoga since 2011. Her journey into yoga began in college and law school to help her manage stress and build strength, but Jen also credits yoga for helping her heal, discover her voice, and embrace her life’s purpose. She holds a 500 hour certification in Hatha Yoga, certificates in Vinyasa Flow, meditation, and lifestyle coaching, and extensive training in Eastern philosophy, shamanic healing, and Pilates. Jen offers an online wellness membership community and teaches in person at HealthQuest in Flemington and Dig Yoga in Frenchtown. What is so refreshing about Jen is her authenticity and fearlessness in being herself. She is passionate about helping others harness the power of yoga, especially women in the demanding field of law, to effect positive change and transformation. Her mission to empower others to be their best self through yoga is inspiring and frankly contagious.

As part of the Celebrating Age issue, I asked these inspiring yogis to share here the advice they would give to their younger selves.

“You know who you are more than anyone else ever will. Trust your instinct and be that person, and everything else will fall into place.”

Jennifer Mohamed

@jentheyogalawyer

“As an aging yogi, I would tell my younger self that yoga can be the best gift and tool in life. It’s been a journey of self-discovery: physically, it’s a way to unwind, to relieve tired muscles and calm the mind, but also a way to connect with myself, heal, a way “through” difficult times of daily life, and a path with which to walk on to the next life with grace.”

Paul Lopresti

@thebudoyogi

“Yoga has been a unique gift throughout my life; from a newbie, to a teacher, to opening a studio, then to opening a vegan restaurant, each stage holds a special place in my journey. Looking back, I would tell myself to trust where you are in this very moment, and always be yourself!”

Shire Lopresti

@shiremaclo

THE NONNAS

by LouLou Piscatore | Feb 24, 2025 | ARTICLES, Food, FRONT PAGE POSTS, SPOTLIGHT

THE NONNAS

FOOD

It’s hard to conjure anything more comforting than your grandmother’s cooking. If that is something you find yourself missing, you can experience it again at Nonnas of the World Restaurant in Staten Island, where the chefs are all grandmothers.

Jody Scaravella grew up spending a lot of time with his grandmother. “My nonna Domenica was an amazing cook and the sweetest woman I’ve ever known…we would go to the fruit market, the butcher, and the fish market regularly. When we got home, I would watch her cook everything we bought. I can still remember eating her pasta with peas and often find myself making it today.” Every Sunday the whole family would have dinner at her house. He describes grandmothers as the “glue that holds the family together.” After his grandmother and mother passed, it was something he missed. The inspiration for the restaurant was to try and “recreate what had been lost” — the culture, the comfort, the wisdom, the memories, the recipes.

In the beginning, Jody focussed on Italian food. He placed an ad in an Italian newspaper, and then grandmothers started showing up to his house. “It was an amazing moment in my life. All these ladies chasing me around with plates of food to try, I often compare it to a Fellini movie.” Over time, he noticed that the customers of the restaurant were from many different nationalities, and he was inspired to expand to celebrate multiple cultures. Now the restaurant runs two kitchens — one is always Italian, and the other is the cuisine of whatever nonna is working that night. “We have nonnas from Greece, Japan, Italy, Peru, Bangladesh, Egypt, Azerbaijan, and more! I hope to be able to represent every country.” He finds that food is a unifying force, and describes it as “taking people across the border, safely” to experience another culture. “I think what we don’t understand makes us anxious and uneasy. My feelings are that when you break bread together, our preconceived notions may change and truths become clearer.”

At the heart of Nonnas of the World are the nonnas. Many of them have lost husbands or are empty-nesters. The opportunity to cook their food and share their culture has brought them back to life. According to one of the nonnas, “There isn’t a better feeling than watching a customer enjoy your food.” And they have so much to share. They carry the traditions and the recipes, and pass them down to the next generation. Now, they get to pass them down to a whole community. “I think we’ve struck a nerve,” says Jody, “and our popularity rests squarely on this principle; whenever a Nonna is in the kitchen hundreds of years of her culture flows from her fingertips.”

The restaurant is open Friday – Sunday, and is walking distance from the Staten Island ferry.

Call for reservations
718-447-2777
27 Hyatt Street, Staten Island, New York 10301
Check them on IG

HOW TO ORGANIZE A YOGA RETREAT: A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR TEACHERS AND PRACTITIONERS

by iana velez | Feb 24, 2025 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, TRAVEL

HOW TO ORGANIZE A YOGA RETREAT:
A COMPLETE GUIDE FOR TEACHERS AND PRACTITIONERS

But First, Why Should You Organize a Yoga Retreat?

Hosting a retreat isn’t just about taking your students on a getaway — it’s about creating an immersive experience for growth, healing, and self-discovery. It’s also a natural next step in your teaching career, allowing you to expand your reach, strengthen your community, and generate a sustainable income.

Here are some of the biggest benefits of organizing a yoga retreat:

Deeper student engagement: Retreats allow students to fully immerse themselves in yoga without daily distractions.
A stronger sense of community: Participants bond over a shared experience, creating lasting connections.
A new level of professional growth: Leading a retreat establishes you as a leader in the wellness space.
Financial sustainability: Retreats can be a profitable addition to your yoga business when structured properly.

How TourHero Makes Organizing a Yoga Retreat Easy

Planning a retreat can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. TourHero specializes in helping yoga teachers and wellness instructors seamlessly plan, create, and execute successful retreats without the stress. If you have a vision, TourHero can put together that dream retreat for you.

Host your retreat with TourHero if you’re looking for:

End-to-end planning support: From venue selection to meal plans, transportation to booking logistics.
Custom pricing models: Build in a margin per participant to ensure you earn from your retreat while keeping it affordable.
Seamless group management tools: Track sign-ups and participant details all in one place.
Exclusive access to vetted retreat locations: Hand-picked venues that align with your retreat vision and offer top-tier wellness amenities.
Flexible payment plans: Choose the right payment plans to make your retreat more accessible for students.

For real success stories from past retreat hosts, read these TourHero reviews.

Signs You’re Ready to Host Your First Retreat

Not sure if you’re ready? Many teachers hesitate because they feel they don’t have a big enough following or aren’t sure how to fill their retreat. However, the truth is, if you have a loyal student base, a passion for guiding transformation, and a vision for your retreat, you’re ready.

Here are some signs that now is the right time to take the leap:

You have a consistent group of students who attend your classes regularly.
You’ve led workshops or special events and want to create a longer, more immersive experience.
You feel called to offer something beyond the studio setting.
Students often ask about deeper training or dedicated time for yoga practice.

If this sounds like you, then organizing a yoga retreat is your next step!

Step-by-Step Guide to Organizing a Yoga Retreat

Planning a yoga retreat may seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process smooth and stress-free.

1. Define Your Retreat’s Purpose and Theme

A successful retreat starts with a clear intention. Ask yourself:

What experience do I want to create for my students?
Will my retreat focus on restorative healing, deepening the physical practice, or incorporating meditation and breathwork?
What do I want my participants to gain from this retreat?

Your answers will guide everything, from the location you choose to the itinerary you design.

2. Choose the Right Location

Your retreat setting plays a huge role in the overall experience. Consider the following when choosing a location:

Tranquility and inspiration: Will the surroundings support relaxation and focus?
Accessibility: Is it easy for participants to travel there?
Accommodations and amenities: Does the venue offer comfortable lodging, healthy meals, and spaces for yoga practice?
Climate: Will the weather support the type of experience you’re creating?

Some popular yoga retreat destinations include:

Bali, Indonesia: Lush jungles, spiritual energy, and serene beaches.
Costa Rica: Secluded rainforests, wildlife, and eco-friendly resorts.
Thailand: Stunning coastal landscapes, stunning islands, and wellness-focused retreats.
Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico: Ancient ruins, mystical cenotes, vibrant culture, and tranquil beaches.

3. Plan a Balanced Itinerary

A well-structured yoga retreat should balance guided sessions with free time for reflection and integration.

Here’s an example of a one-day retreat schedule:

7:00 am – Sunrise meditation & breathwork
8:00 am – Morning movement & yoga session
9:30 am – Nourishing breakfast
10:30 am– Free time (journaling, reflection, or beach walks)
12:30 pm – Workshop (philosophy, mindfulness, or Ayurveda)
2:00 pm – Lunch
3:00 pm – Group activity (nature hike, sound healing, or cultural excursions)
6:00 pm – Evening yoga & deep relaxation
7:30 pm – Dinner & community gathering

Your schedule should reflect the energy of the retreat, whether it’s slow and restorative or more dynamic and active.

4. Pricing and Payment Structure

One of the biggest challenges for first-time retreat hosts is pricing. You want your retreat to be accessible while ensuring it covers your expenses and generates profit. Some strategies you can use:

Offer early-bird discounts to encourage sign-ups
Create tiered pricing for different accommodation room types (private vs. shared guest rooms)
Include flexible payment plans so participants can pay in installments

The retreat planning experts at TourHero can help you with a competitive pricing plan to ensure that your retreat is offered at the right price point.

5. Market Your Retreat & Fill Your Spots

Even the best retreats won’t succeed if people don’t sign up. Here are ways to effectively market your retreat:

Leverage social media: Share behind-the-scenes content, testimonials, and sneak peeks of your retreat destination.
Use email marketing: Reach out to your students and community with a compelling invitation.
Offer referral incentives: Encourage past students to spread the word with discounts or special bonuses.

Host Your Dream Yoga Retreat Today

With the right planning and support, your first retreat can be a huge success.

Ready to bring your retreat vision to life? Explore TourHero’s customizable retreat planning services to create an experience that aligns with your purpose.

We are kicking off 2025 with even more Yoga Love!

by iana velez | Dec 29, 2024 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Lifestyle

We are kicking off 2025
with even more Yoga Love!

By iana velez

LIFESTYLE

Our mission here at Yoga Love has always been to create a thoughtfully curated publication that celebrates yoga, community, art, music and wellness. For over four years we are proud that we have created the only Latina founded, nationally distributed, annual print publication that celebrates our local yoga and wellness community on the national page, that is available for FREE at partner yoga studios and festivals!

Our all volunteer team, and community of yoga studio partners, sponsors and advertisers are the reason we are able to create and share groundbreaking, and thoughtfully curated publications. Our next print issue will launch this June, and we are so excited to announce we are now adding additional, all digital issues throughout the year in 2025. This year we will share more Yoga Love, more often.

We invite you to check out the first all digital issue here that our very own Melissa Honkanen took on the role of Editor for, and curated all the content around a theme we hope will resonate with everyone: HEALING.

Thank you to Melissa, our Features Editor Stephanie, and all the contributors who joined us to create and share this issue for free with you all. We hope you find inspiration in their words and if you are moved, we encourage you to support them and their work.

Wishing us all a year filled with yoga, love and healing.

2024 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

by iana velez | Dec 1, 2024 | ARTICLES, FRONT PAGE POSTS, Lifestyle

2024 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

By iana velez

LIFESTYLE

Welcome to our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide!

We are so excited to share with everyone some of our amazing sponsors, and favorite holiday gift ideas from the Yoga Love Team.

Cobble Mountain Hammock Chairs

This holiday season, give the gift of serenity with Cobble Mountain Hammock Chairs. Designed in New England and handcrafted in the USA, our hammock chairs are more than just a seat—they’re a sanctuary. Perfect for those who seek a mindful escape, each chair offers unparalleled comfort, eco-friendly craftsmanship, and a timeless design that complements any space, indoors or out.

Made from sustainably sourced materials and built with care by skilled artisans, our chairs are a thoughtful gift for loved ones—or a well-deserved treat for yourself. Whether you’re curling up with a good book or simply finding your center, a Cobble Mountain chair is where relaxation begins. Reconnect with nature, your loved ones, and yourself this holiday season.

Exclusive for Yoga Love readers: Enjoy 15% off your holiday purchase with code YOGALOVE15 at checkout.

The Yoga Pillow:

This thoughtfully designed prop combines the support of a yoga block with the softness of a yoga bolster, offering a unique blend of comfort, portability, and versatility. Made from high-quality cotton canvas with a supportive foam core, it’s perfect for restorative yoga, seated meditation, and challenging postures that require additional support.

The Yoga Pillow is a one-of-a-kind prop invented by Lochana Panapitiya, is revolutionizing the way yoga and meditation enthusiasts approach their practice. Lochana’s vision for The Yoga Pillow was to create an accessible and adaptable tool that meets the needs of both beginners and experienced yogis alike. Available in calming colors like Sea Glass Teal, Blue Lagoon and White Coral, it adds an aesthetic touch to any practice space while providing the ideal balance of firmness and comfort.

The Yoga Pillow’s innovative design allows it to attach to standard yoga blocks, transforming them into mini yoga bolsters for heightened support and deeper relaxation. Compact and travel-friendly, it’s easy to bring along to the studio or on the go. With its emphasis on flexibility and functionality, The Yoga Pillow is quickly becoming a must-have for anyone looking to deepen their practice. Discover more about this transformative prop at theyogapillow.com.

From our Beauty and Wellness Editor LouLou:

Better Not Younger
Second Chance Hair, Face, and Body Nourishing Oil.

“I love a multiple use product and this oil is like one stop shopping. With Abyssinian oil and Squalene to help restore the moisture barrier and nourish and protect skin and hair. Better Not Younger makes products specifically for women in their 40’s and above. and they are Vegan, Cruelty-free, Paraben-free,and Sulfate-free.”

From our Feature Editor Stephanie

Short Story Box

“I have been loving Short Story Box because at 5 ft. tall and petite but not skinny, it’s extremely difficult to shop for certain items. Here, you provide your measurements and preferences, and a stylist makes selections for you. You purchase what you’d like, and send back what doesn’t work. You can choose your shipment frequency, which is super convenient.”

Handcrafted Quartz Collection Yoga Bolsters

Introducing Stone Wave’s Quartz Collection: Handcrafted, Antimicrobial Yoga Bolsters for a Cleaner, Healthier Practice.

We’re thrilled to announce the debut of Stone Wave’s Quartz Collection with its very first product: handcrafted, antimicrobial yoga bolsters designed to enhance your yoga practice and wellness space. These bolsters combine therapeutic support with premium style, providing a cleaner, healthier alternative to traditional yoga equipment.

A clean, serene yoga space is vital to physical and mental well-being, yet many traditional yoga bolsters, made from absorbent materials, can trap dust, dirt, and moisture—creating an environment where bacteria and mold can thrive.

Stone Wave’s bolsters are crafted from luxury-grade vegan vinyl, a durable and highly impermeable material that resists germs, ensuring your bolster stays hygienic and easy to clean after each session. Give your practice a fresh start with Stone Wave’s Quartz Collection bolsters, and experience wellness and peace of mind like never before!

Contact
liz@stonewaveyoga.com

From our team member Tashya

Give the Gift of Yoga

This is a weekly hour long virtual gentle flow class on Saturday mornings designed to wake up your body with gentle movement so you feel relaxed and refreshed for the day. This class is created to be accessible to everyone at all ages and levels. Come as you are and build a practice that works for you.

Learn more about Tashya here.

Element Tree Essentials: Rose Beauty Body Oil

The Yoga Love team was at the Love Shine Yoga Festival in Asheville just weeks before Hurricane Helene devastated the area. Thankfully some businesses have since been able to reopen like this beautiful shop selling the most amazing products like the Rose Beauty Body Oil I can’t get enough of! If you can support any small business impacted by the terrible hurricanes that happened in the last few months, please do.

The Sobriety Deck

Filled with practical tools and inspirational prompts, The Sobriety Deck is your ultimate guide to conquering the challenges and embracing the joys of a booze-free life. In this deck you’ll find fifty cards that contain countless tips and tricks for getting through early sobriety, finding your sober community, navigating triggering environments, dating, and making space to celebrate all the exciting milestones you reach along your journey. There are many ways to use this deck—pull a card as a daily practice, consult one before a night out with friends, respond to the prompts in your journal, or keep the deck handy for support on the go.