Dana Arbel (left) and Ashley Burns (right) of DiRTYOGA
Name: Dana Arbel and Ashley Burns of DiRTYOGA
Hometown:
DA: Originally from Brooklyn, NY but raised in North Phoenix
AB: Born in Los Angeles, and raised in North Phoenix
Preferred title: “DiRTYOGA Mama’s”
Favorite Arizona place:
DA: Hiking at Dreamy Draw
AB: Weekending in Tucson.
Favorite drink:
DA: Whiskey sour
AB: Paloma
Favorite local project:
DA: I love going to Wednesday nights at the Phoenix Arts Museum
AB: The Jazz Series at Valley Bar.
THIS or THAT:
Savasana or handstand?
DA: Savasana
AB: Savasana
DA: I made sandwiches at Togo’s for a summer when I was 16
AB: I was a tutor at Kumon Math and Reading.
How do you describe the work you do?
DA: Through DiRTYOGA, we teach yoga classes in different outdoor settings, through local collaborations to make people feel GOOD and close to their communities. We believe in the power of yoga, and want to make it accessible to all.
AB: It’s heart work! DiRTYOGA was birthed from our personal experiences with the practice, and our need to share it. We believe in bringing yoga, in accessible ways, to the people with the help of like-minded organizations. A lot of time is spent on reaching out and ASKING for collaboration opportunities. Our movement has been successful thus far because of our willingness to be vulnerable (open-hearted) and simply ask. It is amazing how often the response is yes.
What activity do you consistently make time to do, or at least try to?
DA: Lately I have been exploring many forms of self expression including writing, painting, and dancing. With no expectations or goals, but for the purpose of simply expressing myself. It has made a huge difference In my life.
AB: I journal daily, and recently added acupuncture to my self-love routine.
When do you feel most in your element, zone, etc.?
DA: When my house is in order, I can put music on, cook, and chill out.
AB: When I am leading a yoga class.
What advice do you have for your younger self?
DA: You are great being exactly who you are, don’t try to be anyone else. Speak up!
AB: Stop straightening your hair! Embrace the effortless power and beauty that come with rocking your curls. They are a special extension of you.
What direction would you like your life to take from here?
DA: I am at a place where I am creating the life that I want for myself, by allowing myself to explore and learn. So I say, to be determined.
AB: Sky’s the limit! Next, I want to take over the world one smile at a time.
schmooze 