How to Discover Community, Connection, and Flow with IceFlow

by | Jan 25, 2025 | Mind & Body Balance

Discover Community, Connection, and Flow with IceFlow

Why would someone willingly wake up at 6 a.m. on a Sunday to skate outdoors in the cold? The answer lies in the joy of community, movement, and a shared experience that transcends individual skating goals. IceFlow, a unique yoga-inspired skating class, brings together adult skaters of all levels to stretch, breathe, and glide as one, creating a harmonious and energizing start to the day.

An Opportunity for Every Skater

IceFlow offers something for everyone. From beginners finding their balance on the ice to competitive skaters seeking a refreshing change of pace, the beauty of this class lies in its simplicity. Unlike traditional skating drills or intense training sessions, IceFlow emphasizes easy, flowing movements synchronized with music. Participants engage in gentle stretches, frequent breathing reminders, and smooth glides that encourage relaxation and fluidity on the ice.

It’s About More Than Skating

IceFlow is more than a fitness class—it’s a celebration of connection. Skaters move together, sharing a sense of unity as they flow through graceful movements under the morning sky. The feeling of belonging and camaraderie grows as participants glide in harmony. With the early morning sun peeking over the Boston skyline, crisp air filling their lungs, and a peaceful atmosphere surrounding them, each session becomes a mindful and tranquil experience.

The Vision Behind the Movement

IceFlow was founded by Elin Schran, who envisioned a skating experience rooted in ease and fluidity rather than competition. Her concept blends the principles of yoga with the joy of gliding, creating a holistic approach that nurtures both body and mind. Schran’s passion for inclusivity shines in every session, where skaters are encouraged to embrace their unique rhythm and find personal joy on the ice. Her vision fosters a love of skating and strengthens connections within the community.

Why Does It Matter?

For adult skaters, finding opportunities for connection and movement without a focus on technical progression or competition results is invaluable. IceFlow offers a rare chance to savor the simple pleasures of skating while building relationships and fostering a supportive community. The experience leaves participants feeling refreshed, grounded, and ready to face the day with renewed energy.

So, the next time your alarm rings before sunrise on a chilly Sunday morning, remember the magic waiting at the rink. IceFlow is more than a skating class—it’s an invitation to connect, flow, and find joy on the ice together.

Learn more about IceFlow classes near you.  If you are in the Boston area there are two more classes on the Boston Common Frog Pond on Sunday Jan 26th and Feb. 9th at 7:30am.

How Pursuing Your Passion Inspires Growth and Builds Resilience

by | Jan 11, 2025 | Conversations

pursuing a passion

In this podcast episode, Christina, an adult figure skater, and her friend Chia, an accomplished pianist and fellow skater, delve into how pursuing their passions for figure skating and piano cultivates valuable life skills far beyond the rink and the keyboard.

They uncover thoughtful parallels between falling on the ice and making mistakes in music, emphasizing that resilience and recovery are at the heart of personal growth. The conversation also touches on managing the mental pressures of competitions and performances, highlighting the importance of preparation, focus, and mental toughness. Chia shares strategies like musical imagery and meditation to calm her nerves, while Christina discusses her dynamic off-ice warm-ups and visualization techniques. Together, they explore how progress is often non-linear, showing that setbacks can lay the groundwork for breakthroughs.

The episode concludes with the joy and fulfillment that comes from pursuing a passion as an adult. Chia talks about rediscovering her love for the piano after a long hiatus, while Christina reflects on her late start in figure skating. Their shared experiences underscore the power of persistence, community, and following lifelong dreams—proving it’s never too late to embrace what brings you joy.

Play Episode

Milestones That Mattered: Reflecting on a Year of Growth

by | Dec 30, 2024 | Mind & Body Balance

2025 Goals

The start of a new year offers a collective reset—a chance to prioritize what matters, shed what doesn’t serve you, and focus on growth. As 2024 winds down, I’ve taken time to reflect on milestones that mattered, along with the challenges, achievements, and valuable lessons the year brought.

One milestone I’m particularly proud of is – this – my 50th blog post! What began as a creative outlet has grown into a platform for sharing my skating journey and connecting with others. Hearing the stories of fellow skaters and professionals has been deeply rewarding and a source of creative growth.

Looking back over the past year, persistence and intentional effort were the key drivers for success. Watching old training videos reminded me of progress I often overlook when struggling with a certain element. Moments like landing a new jump or managing competition nerves highlight the importance of celebrating wins, no matter how small. As Steve Jobs famously said, “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future.”

Setting Goals for 2025

Goal setting is personal, find what works for you. While skating goals like mastering a new jump or passing a test are often the easiest to identify, I’ve learned to value less tangible goals, such as maintaining mental clarity, balancing training with work and life off the ice, and embracing the process. After reflecting, I start by writing down my goals without judgment. Then I organize them into categories—like skating, off-ice training, work, and life—and jot down one or two actionable steps under each so I have a place to start and a path leading towards the goal. Remember, you can set goals any time—it doesn’t have to be January.

Celebrating Milestones

Every step forward matters. Whether it’s a small improvement or a significant breakthrough, celebrating these moments fuels motivation. Journaling has been an area I’ve explored and for the most part liked, it helps me capture thoughts after productive or challenging sessions. I also document warm-up routines that work well for competitions so I can replicate them. Videos of training sessions are another powerful tool for tracking progress over time, especially when improvement feels slow. Celebrating these moments fuels motivation and builds resilience.

The Power of Community

Connecting with fellow skaters is also very valuable. Be it a quick chat with my coach to discuss a concern or share a success, noticing your training mates who share the ice with you day after day and appreciating their hard work, success and struggles along the way, and learning from others’ journeys reinforce the fact that none of us are skating alone.

As 2024 closes, I’m filled with gratitude for a year of growth. Here’s to a new year of fresh goals, exciting milestones, and deeper connections. What are you celebrating as the year ends, and what are you looking forward to in 2025? 

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Start

by | Dec 8, 2024 | Mind & Body Balance

world ice skating day

World Ice Skating Day, celebrated this year on December 15th, is an international event dedicated to the joy of ice skating through a global festival. Many rinks and skating clubs will mark the occasion with free skating sessions and complimentary skate rentals. A worldwide celebration like this makes it the perfect time to start skating. Let’s explore why learning to skate as an adult is not only possible but also immensely rewarding. Whether you’re stepping onto the ice for the first time or rekindling a childhood passion, figure skating offers countless physical, mental, and emotional benefits.

Why Start Now?

Starting something new as an adult can feel intimidating. You might imagine being the only grown-up in a class full of kids or fielding skeptical looks from friends saying, “You’re going to do what?” But skating is more than just learning to glide—it’s about building confidence, developing new skills, and proving to yourself that age is just a number.

Trying something outside your comfort zone sparks curiosity and breaks up the monotony of our daily routines. It’s about setting goals, celebrating progress (no matter how small), and proving that it’s never too late to try something new.

Physical Benefits

Ice skating is a full-body workout that improves strength, balance, and flexibility:

  • Low-Impact Cardio: Learning to skate is a heart-healthy way to build endurance and improve circulation, with the added bonus of being gentle on your joints. (Don’t forget padding to cushion inevitable falls! More on that here.)
  • Core and Leg Strength: Skating engages your core and lower body, helping improve balance and posture through movements like spins, jumps, and edge exercises.
  • Improved Flexibility and Coordination: Moving in new ways on the ice naturally enhances flexibility and motor skills. Complementing your skating with off-ice training boosts strength and mobility even further.

Mental Health Benefits

The mental rewards of skating are just as powerful as the physical ones:

  • Stress Relief: The focus required for spins, jumps, and edge exercises allows you to fully disconnect from technology and daily stressors.
  • Improved Mood: Like all exercise, skating releases endorphins that leave you feeling accomplished and energized.
  • Cognitive Boost: Skating sharpens your brain through quick decision-making, spatial awareness, and memorization.
  • Social Connection: Joining a Learn to Skate class or skating club helps you meet like-minded people, building community and support.

The Wonder of Starting Something New

There’s nothing quite like mastering a skill you never thought possible. From your first one-foot glide to landing a spin or jump, every achievement is proof of your resilience and dedication.

Whether you’re drawn by the physical challenge, the mental clarity, or the sheer joy of skating, now is the perfect time to lace up your skates. Celebrate World Ice Skating Day by taking that first step—you never know where this journey might take you.

Ready to start? Share your skating goals and stories in the comments below!

Your Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Glitter Season

by | Dec 1, 2024 | Skating Essentials

Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are fast approaching, and it’s time to find that perfect gift! Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned skater, a lifelong fan, or someone lacing up their skates for the first time, this holiday gift guide has something for everyone. From practical essentials to personalized favorites, meaningful experiences, and opportunities to give back, here are my top picks to make any skater’s season sparkle. Let’s jump in!

1. Gifts for Inspiration

Books to Spark Motivation:

  • One Jump at a Time by Nathan Chen: An inspiring and realistic look into an elite figure skaters journey, from his first steps on the ice to the Beijing Olympics.
  • Gracie Gold’s Book: an honest and moving memoir detailing her battles and victories both on and off the ice. (Recommendation: the audiobook, read by Gracie herself)
  • The Book of Figure Skating by Johanna Allik: A gorgeous collection featuring interviews with some of the sports biggest names, skater insights, and stunning photography—a perfect coffee table addition.

2. Support Small Businesses

Etsy Favorites:

Personalized Accessories:

  • The perfect travel mug – because you need a way to transport those lattes to the rink. Extra credit? These come in super fun colors and are designed so you never need to remove your gloves to take sip.
  • Personalized rink side bag – a small bag to store those rink side necessities or to organize small items in your skate bag such as Bunga pads, gloves, lip balm, etc.

3. Last-Minute Essentials

No time to shop? These practical picks are easy to grab and always appreciated.

  • Leg Warmers: tested by yours truly to fit over your skates, stay up, and keep you toasty warm.
  • Gloves: warm, phone friendly, padded for those unexpected falls and tough enough to withstand all those catch foot positions the require grabbing the blades.
Holiday Gift Guide

4. High-Low Gifting Options

Splurge-Worthy Favorites:

Budget-Friendly Picks:

5. Gifts That Give Back

Celebrate the spirit of the season by giving back:

  • Donate to organizations like the U.S. Figure Skating Memorial Fund which has provided more than $20 million in financial support to athletes for skating-related and academic expenses. The Memorial Fund acts as a living legacy to the lives lost on Flight 548.
  • Help support an organisation like Elevate Figure Skating Club co-founded by Michael Phaneuf, who partners with Boston schools and the broader community to offer inclusive Learn to Skate USA programs. By removing financial barriers, Elevate is making the sport accessible to all and fostering a welcoming environment for skaters of every background.

6. Experience-Based Gifts

Create lasting memories with these thoughtful experiences:

  • Learn-to-Skate Classes: A perfect introduction for beginners or a fun way to sharpen skills for those returning to the sport.
  • Skating Camps or Clinics: Help them level up their abilities while making new friends on the ice.

From inspiring books to meaningful experiences and charitable giving, these thoughtful gift ideas celebrate every facet of skating. Whether you’re adding a touch of magic to their time on the ice or bringing joy off it, you’re sure to make your favorite skater’s holiday unforgettable. Happy shopping—and happy skating!