Health and Wellness Tips from Tara Kilgallen from Lumina at the Longfellow Health Club

Tara Kilgallen tells Patch how she initially got involved in the health industry and explains how Lumina at Longfellow Health Club can help anyone achieve his or her fitness goals.

P: What is your morning routine?

When I hear my alarm in the morning, I thank the Universe that I am here again, blessed with another day to be present for my children, my husband, and to be part of such a wonderful studio as Lumina Mind Body. After a cup of tea with my dog, I contemplate the day, and make the decision to be kind, mindful, productive, or just fun. Then my three boys wake up for school, so I mindfully maintain my zen through the bedlam!

P: If you had to recommend someone three books what would they be and why?

1. Light on Yoga by BKS Iyengar. This book offers clear and concise instruction on the alignment and benefits of yoga poses, and also gives the reader a glimse into the true practice of yoga, the “union” part of the practice. I refer to this book on a weekly basis for myself, and as a teacher.

2. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. This was one of the first written texts about yoga, clearing breaking down the steps to achieve a yogi’s highest form of inner peace and Oneness with all life. It states the true reason we do yoga in a tangible way. Another book I use on a weekly basis.

3. Breakfast with Buddha by Ronald Merullo. This is a fun yet poignant recollection of one man’s journey to yoga and understanding. A common man finding his way- beautiful!

P: What services does the Health Club offer?

Lumina is far more than a health club: Lumina is a full service studio, offering daily group classes in Yoga, Pilates, Barre, NIA, Sculpting, T’ai Chi, and Meditation. Aside from over 70 class options a week, Lumina also has Pilates reformer group and private sessions, personal training, and a very knowledgeable and fully licensed Nutrition staff.

P: If I am trying to become healthier or starting to take an interest in health and wellness, but don’t know where to start, how can the Lumina at Longfellow Health help me?

Lumina has many beginner, gentle, and restorative classes to choose from, with even more classes to grow into as you progress. Our team, from the front desk staff to class instructors, are our most valuable resources, and can help people new to yoga or Pilates find the right class. All of our teachers are a wealth of knowledge and understanding; when you arrive for your first class they are willing and excited to support you in any way necessary.

P: What made you want to pursue a career in the health and fitness industry?

I took my first yoga class at age 16, and fell in love with the way it cultivated mindfulness and positivity. The instructor was supportive, patient, and gentle, yet encouraged me to test uncharted waters. She was able to help me through both physical and emotional hiccups without ever having that conversation. I knew shortly after that this would be my career: to help people in a mindful and compassionate way.

P: You’re not the only person in the health and wellness business. How do you distinguish yourself from the others?

It really comes down to our staff. Our instructors have years of training and teaching experience behind each one of them. As a team, we create a supportive and fun community, and we encourage our students to be in the delicate balance between nurturing yourself and moving yourself forward through whatever the obstacle. Lumina is a welcoming environment that thrives on creative classes and uplifting people’s spirits. We pride ourselves on the quality of instruction, sense of community, and enhancing health and wellness.

P: What type of classes does the Health Club offer?

We have classes in Vinyasa, Kripalu, Svaroopa, Restorative, gentle, and Hot yoga, Pilates mat and reformer, Barre, sculpting, meditation, NIA, T’ai Chi, and a Longevity program.

P: Do you have any tips to stay fit during the holiday season?

There are some treats that you can really only enjoy on certain holidays, so by all means, enjoy, but do so in a mindful way. Take a smaller portion, be truly present for each bite, and you won’t feel deprived. The holidays are also a great opportunity to fill your plate with healthy squash, turkey, fresh vegetables, and cranberries. Make these healthy options your go-to’s, with less of the potatoes and breads.

P: How can readers contact you?

Please visit our website: luminaminbody.com, or give us a call at 508.358.6022

P: How can readers contact your or find out more about Lumina Mind Body?

By visiting our website, or coming in and seeing the facility. There is an Open House at Lumina Saturdayand Sunday, October 24 and 25 from 9am-1pm. We are located on Route 20 across the street from the Rolls Royce dealership. Our driveway is on the right of the Longfellow Center driveway, and our entrance is beside the Longfellow Children’s center.