Meet Maria Munkowits | Sala Studio, Auckland, NZ

Maria - not only a part of the OG SALA crew, but a continuous muse, collaborator and friend. We get down and personal, and find out, how well do we really know, Maria?

Why and how did movement become such a big part of your life?

Dancing for me is the ultimate blend of creativity and physicality. It's something I’ve always come back to throughout my life in different capacities, and it seemed only natural to create a lifestyle where I could continue to express my love of movement by teaching while easing the pressures and financial struggle of the freelance dance industry.

How would you describe your classes?

Surprisingly challenging - I try to stay pretty chill in my delivery while encouraging people to engage using their entire body as a whole to integrate the exercises or sequences. The burn creeps up on you!

Your favourite thing about the sala community?

I just feel like I meet the most like-minded people at Sala. I love that feeling of knowing you’re going to see your little crew, have a chat, do some moves and walk out feeling like, is this even work? Haha

What other practices do you live by that support your mindset and mood?

I recently went on a 10-day vipassana meditation course and had never really had much of a meditation practice apart from the 5 minutes or so you sometimes start or finish within a yoga class. It was a really torturous experience (in the best way) which changed some of my reactivity towards thoughts or situations, but rather instead observing with an equanimous mind. Easier said than done, but the technique has certainly helped a lot over this lockdown period for sure.

How do you motivate yourself to get moving when you’re low energy?

I think the hardest part is just getting myself to the studio or mat. Once I’m there, the hard part is already over and sometimes my lowest moods can be transformed after an hour's practice. It’s like magic. That being said, sometimes if taking an extra hour in bed is what you need, I’m all for it.

What’s your favourite SALA online class?

I’ve been loving express Yogasana - 30 minutes is ideal for home practice, and its no-fuss-regimented style is awesome for getting the day started. Thanks, Sarah!

Are you an early riser or a night owl?

I’m not naturally a morning person (hello Tuesday 6.30am class lol) but I have to say being forced to get up early makes me feel more productive in the long run. As a Vata dosha my thoughts tend to race in the evenings, so an early bedtime ritual is something I’m working on.

If you could do anything else for a living, what would it be?

A tattoo artist. I love the concentrated detail that goes into the process, I’m a bit of a perfectionist so I know those lines would be straight!

What’s your star sign? Are you typical of your sign?

I’m such a Libra. Very indecisive, love beautiful things and diplomatic to a fault. It’s worth checking out your moon and rising signs though, we had a great time at Sala reception one morning figuring these out!

What’s your go to skincare routine?

Consistency is key and I like products that are unscented or not too active as I have quite sensitive skin. It’s an obvious one, but drinking enough water during the day is the main thing I try to keep up for healthy skin. Also, I recently become OBSESSED with dermaplaning. ASMR heaven.