Laura Iris Nave
Meet Laura, a classically trained and certified Pilates instructor with 15 years of experience in the professional health and fitness fields. As a former dancer, her expertise in movement patterns is far reaching and cultivated through a life lived in the studio.
Laura completed her comprehensive Pilates certification with Romana’s Pilates at True Pilates New York. She has studied under numerous master instructors including Sari Mejia Santos, Cynthia Shipley, Jerome Weinberg, Anthony Rabara, Edwina Fontaine, Cynthia Lochard, Juanita Lopez and Phoebe Higgins. She was a Pilates studio manager at Equinox Columbus Circle and has taught throughout New York City.
In 2013, Laura moved to Providence and opened Rare Form Pilates on South Main Street. The original studio operated as a private, apparatus studio committed to bringing the classical Pilates work to Rhode Island. In 2021, Rare Form Pilates expanded to become a group fitness studio at it’s current location in the Jewelry District.
Laura holds a BA in American Studies and Gender Studies from Brown University and certifications in health coaching, gut and hormone health from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach.
Also, meet Montana Dawn (aka Monty), the Rare Form Pilates studio mascot. This sweet pup can usually be found in Laura’s office and loves pets, treats and friends (human and canine alike).
Julia O’Dwyer
Meet Julia, a New Orleans native with a passion for holistic well-being! Julia began practicing Pilates ten years ago and has been captivated ever since. She obtained her Power Pilates Core Mat I and II Certification at the Providence Pilates Center through a work study program, where she also taught open level Pilates classes.
In addition to her Pilates credentials, Julia completed her 200 hour yoga certification through Sacred Heart Yoga at the Pilates and Yoga Loft in New Orleans, and a yoga mentorship program at Heatwise Bowery in New York City. She has taught both group and private yoga sessions throughout New Orleans, New York and Providence. She holds an undergraduate degree from Providence College in Health Policy Business and currently works in the nonprofit sector.
Julia’s classes focus on the Classical Pilates method, while cultivating body and breath awareness. Through focusing on the breath and exercising your mind-body connection, you will find yourself able to go deeper into your Pilates practice!
Lavhana Towns
Meet Lavhana, a dedicated ICU nurse with over seven years of experience in the medical field. Known for her compassion and resilience, she provides life-saving interventions while supporting patients and their families during their most difficult times. While facing the intense demands of her job, especially during the pandemic, she struggled to prioritize her own well-being. This personal challenge led her to discover Pilates as a transformative practice for both body and mind. Lavhana has her Power Pilates Core Mat I and II Certification and is currently working towards her comprehensive Pilates apparatus certification with Power Pilates. She is passionate about preventative care and holistic wellness, aiming to integrate her medical expertise with fitness to help others achieve balance and strength in their lives.