Life & Work with Alisha Olson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alisha Olson.

Hi Alisha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
My Yoga/Martial Arts Journey began while I pursued acting in Los Angeles. I wanted to be an action star! To build the special skills in my acting resume, I took Muay Thai classes at a Mixed Martial Arts school and quickly fell in love with the cardio and competitive aspect of the “Art of 8 Limbs.”

As I learned Jiu-Jitsu, I started teaching a Women’s Martial Arts class and thrived on empowering others. My initial goal to theatrically portray different characters transitioned into a fulfilling career of Being Myself. Angel Athletica was founded in 2016 out of my desire to inspire, educate, and empower others through a Martial Arts and Yogic lifestyle. I believe that movement and mindfulness are therapeutic healing modalities.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the challenges I faced was moving from Los Angeles to Phoenix, as I felt called to serve the community in which I grew up. I hadn’t lived in Phoenix since I was a teenager; the City reflected as much change and transformation as I had personally endured in the 15 years that we had been apart.

As I took time to develop my skills—getting my 200-hour yoga certification at Urban Yoga and becoming a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Women Empowered Instructor—I reconnected with my community and was able to show up for my students as a more evolved educator in the Movement Field.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I studied Acting and Creative Writing in college at New York University. While I don’t currently pursue acting, I do find myself “on stage” quite a bit as I teach techniques and demonstrate postures. My writing degree, however, has served me well in my creative life. During my Yoga Training, I was inspired by the Sanskrit mantra, “So Hum,” to write a children’s book. “So Hum” means “I am That.”

It has been used in ancient Yogic texts to nurture peace, happiness, health, and kindness as we learn to see ourselves in nature, animals, and each other. My book, So Hum, allows all who encounter it to feel seen and be welcomed into a larger, purposeful Whole. It facilitates an Experience of Oneness that aligns with my dream to unite people through movement and inspirational storytelling.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The Covid-19 Crisis gave allowed me to reflect and concentrate on my priorities and gave me space to take a break from my routine and be more intentional with my day.

Pricing:

• Private Lessons $95/hour
• Small Group Classes (up to 6 people) $150/hour
• Seminars (up to 20 people) $300 for 2.5 hours

Contact Info:

• Website: https://angelathletica.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelathletica

Image Credits
Santiago Almada Photography