Celebrity Pilates & Wellness Instructor, Nonna Gleyzer
Introduce yourself. What is your story, and how did you get to where you are today?
My name is Nonna Gleyzer, and I am a celebrity wellness and pilates instructor. At age nine, I joined the Ukrainian junior national rhythmic gymnastic team. I was the only Jewish gymnast back in 1981 when anti-Semitism was rising in the USSR.
My family and I came to this beautiful country in August of 1990 during the Russian Revolution of Perestroika. While trying to make the American national rhythmic gymnastics team, I suffered a significant back injury due to malnutrition. My family had to live off government welfare food stamps, limiting my proper nutrition intake.
Through a dear friend, I was introduced to the world of pilates. I couldn't afford private sessions, so I decided to become certified in order to heal my body. I studied the ins and out of the human form and received a B.A. in physiology. I was accepted to the certification program by Romana Kryzonowka, known as "The Grande Dame of Pilates," specializing in preventative injury and rehabilitation.
What was the best piece of advice you received in your 20s?
I came to the United States of America as an immigrant and refugee. I learned that the sky is the limit when you put in hard work, dedication, and consistency. One of the best and most inspiring lines I received was from my dear friend Kerry Washington: "dream big; anything is possible!"
How do you overcome obstacles?
I was always very blessed to have incredible girlfriends: female support from true friends that accepted me and loved me no matter what.
What qualities do you look for in friends?
Loyalty, optimism, intelligence, and kindness.
What are your top favorite books/podcasts, and why?
"Becoming Supernatural" by Dr. Joe Dispenza. It doesn't matter how you think; you have to feel it.
I'm a big fan of "Goop and Necessity," they are inspiring women through wellness and self-care.
Lewis Howe's podcast on YouTube is very insightful. I'm a people person; I love hearing different points of view and where people come from.
Movies:
Gone with the Wind, because it is about the revolution, American history, and freedom.
Doubt - Viola Davis and Meryl Streep are two of my favorites actresses.
What are you looking forward to most in 2022?
Peace in the World. □
