Community Highlights: Meet Nikala Cunningham of Análú Studios

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikala Cunningham.

Hi Nikala, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
After an incident on the soccer pitch, which led to a chronic ankle injury, taking care of myself proved to be a challenge. I looked to alternative and holistic ways of exercising and healing. I was living in Boston, MA at the time. This is where I found my admiration for Pilates, and ultimately, my overall vision for Análú Studios.

The word Análú (pronounced ah-nah-loo) is Irish for “breathe”, which is the first fundamental principle of Pilates.

Pilates is for everybody, and every body, at any time and any age. It helps one heal, get in shape, and move their bodies. It was my gateway to overall wellness.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It may sound vague, but truly…no path is ever straight. There is only so much you can be taught by your parents, your teachers, your mentors…a lot of owning a business is being open and willing to take on whatever comes your way. What you hope doesn’t happen, or fear would happen, is guaranteed to happen…so how do you navigate through that professionally is really about learning to stay calm in the chaos, make decisions from values rather than emotion, and learn from any mistakes along the way.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Análú Studios is a boutique Pilates studio, only six reformers, built on the belief that wellness should feel both elevated and accessible. Not only does the name Análú mean “breath”, it is also a reminder to take a breath for yourself.

At its core, Análú is about community. We wanted to build something that goes beyond just “taking a class.” It’ is more than just connection with your body…it is also with yourself and with others. Whether someone is brand new to Pilates or has practiced for years, our goal is for them to feel seen, supported, and proud to be part of this space.

Our space was also of upmost importance. Design was meant to meet well-being. Our belief when talking about paint color, drapery, and cabinetry is that when a space is beautiful and thoughtfully curated, it changes the way people show up in it.

We have an excellent team of mentors. Although there are infinite teachings to be learnt within our walls, they are here as your experienced advisors, to guide and assist you, for longevity. Our teachings are not only intended to be exercised within our studio, but to simultaneously extend into your everyday life.

We currently sell socks in our studio, with many plans for more to come…

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
We’re excited to grow! We have many things planned in the very near future that we can’t wait to unveil…

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.analustudios.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/analustudios_/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/an%C3%A1l%C3%BA-studios-redondo-beach
• Other: https://www.mindbodyonline.com/explore/locations/analu-studios