Instructors
Photo by Beth Madison Headshots
Leslie Caney Berni
Pilates, barre and fitness
Leslie Caney Berni is the owner of Breathe Pilates & Fitness studio in Stamford, Connecticut, where she leads customized private, semi-private, and group Pilates mat and apparatus sessions. With humor and knowledge, she has led thousands of classes in Pilates, barre, functional training, and more, ranging in size from two to 200, in numerous studios throughout the New York metropolitan area. A Pilates Method Alliance certified Pilates instructor and nationally certified personal trainer since 2013, she is passionate about helping people find their strength inside and out. Leslie continues to grow her knowledge through ongoing continuing education classes and workshops, delving deeper into evolving new approaches to Pilates and research in exercise science. Her mission is to help others look great and feel even better! Leslie is also an award-winning former magazine editor, writer, and Reiki Master. In her free time, she loves to hike, ski, do yoga, write, and savor good times with her husband, three children, and friends.
Fran Morina Levato
Pilates, yoga and health coaching
Fran is a multifaceted health and wellness professional who combines a rich academic background with a diverse array of certifications. With an MBA earned in 1991, she brings a unique blend of business acumen and holistic wellness to her work. Passionate about empowering others, she became a Professional Life Coach in 2020, helping clients navigate their personal and professional challenges. Fran holds an Authentic Pilates Certification from the United States Pilates Association (USPA) and a yoga certification. She has worked at various studios and gyms in Fairfield and Westchester Counties since 2004. Currently, Fran owns Morina Coaching, Pilates and Yoga, in Stamford, Connecticut, with sessions offered in her studio and virtually. She offers Pilates classes, yoga sessions, life coaching, and Reiki treatments. Fran consistently seeks out opportunities for professional development, ensuring that her methods remain current and impactful. When not working with clients, Fran enjoys reading, journaling, mindfulness practices, and outdoor activities connecting with nature. For Fran, health and wellness are not merely careers; they are a calling.
Photo by Beth Madison Headshots
Meditation, Sound Healing, Rituals and More
Palmaia's Architects of Life provide more than 30 holistic and health activities each week. Various instructors guide transformative journeys on every level, encouraging self-discovery and connections to nature. Offerings include several types of Yoga, Deep Healing Mantras and Meditation, and enriching rituals such as Cacao and Forgiveness Ceremonies. All programs are designed to foster personal growth and well-being in a nurturing environment. Group and private* sessions available.
*Extra cost