Meet your People

Deborah Ruzic

I’m a Pilates instructor passionate about helping people experience amazing workouts through thoughtful alignment, intentional movement, and presence. My classes are warm, welcoming, and designed to help you feel stronger, more connected, and confident in your body—wherever you are in your movement journey.

Through Studio Local, my goal is to cultivate a stronger, health-focused community here in Gimli. I love collaborating with local small businesses and entrepreneurs to create meaningful experiences that bring people together. I also host specialty pop-up Pilates events throughout Manitoba, creating unique opportunities to move, connect, and feel good. I can’t wait to welcome you to class!

Katie Adam

For me, heels dance is so much more than just movement—it’s where confidence, fire, and community meet. I’ve been a dancer on and off my entire life, but when I stepped into my first heels class in 2023, something truly clicked. It unlocked an unimaginable level of joy and self-expression, ultimately leading me to perform in multiple showcases with the most incredible people.

   
Now, I am stepping into a new chapter as an        instructor, dedicated to sharing that 
transformative power with you.
To be completely honest, stepping into the role of a teacher is scary for me. I’ve had to fight my own share of self-doubt to get here. But I am ready to put that doubt aside because dance isn't about fitting into a specific mold—it is truly for every BODY. My mission is to create a space where you can experience the same pure happiness and confidence this art form has given me.
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What to expect:
Designed strictly for beginners, my classes offer a welcoming, judgment-free, 18+ space where everyone belongs. When you come to class, you can expect awesome music, learning exciting new moves, and a whole lot of support. Wear whatever clothing makes you feel the most confident, comfortable, and powerful! Heels are encouraged to get the full experience, but they are completely optional—sneakers are always welcome.
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Come dance with me you won't regret it!

Melanie Johannesson

Melanie has been a yoga and movement guide for the past 8 years. Her journey began with online yoga course.  She then attended training with MFC.  She continued on to learn and study yoga through many lenses including trauma informed therapy yoga.  Her most current passion is somatics.

  She helps ease others into their inner world with meditation, compassionate cueing,  somatic movement and nervous system regulation tools. Melanie also enjoys her family, being a musician, song writing, van life and adventures in nature.

These intuitively led classes includes mostly Somatic movement. There may be some traditional poses which include alternate and additional way to express them.  Sound therapy may also be included.

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Who is this suitable for?

This is a gentle practice for those that want to experience increased range of motion and release of tension, developing more body awareness, and support for the nervous system.  Release habitual holding patterns and ways you move, that may be causing pain in your body.

What to expect

Most movement is done sitting or laying on the mat. There will be ample time to transition if standing. All equipment will be provided, however you are welcome to bring your own.

Certifications:

- Manitoba Fitness Council yoga

- Yoga for Chinese Medicine (The Elements)

- Trainings through YOGA FIT include : Level 1, PTSD and - Trauma, Physical and Emotional Trauma, Balancing - Moods (Mental Health), Chronic Pain, Addictions and Recovery, Nervous System Regulation, Somatosensory Level 1 and 2

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Please email yogacoachmel@gmail.com to register