Those were my first words upon arrival at Living Room Soho, the bright, airy Gyrotonic studio on Broadway founded by a gorgeous Greek former ballerina named Angeliki.

From white-washed brick walls to fluffy towels in Neopolitan shades of cream, pink and chocolate, it’s heavenly.

Influenced by gentle, flowing movements like those in ballet and using a special piece of equipment with weights and pulleys (made by a company called Cobra), Gyrotonic can help build strength, increase flexibility and maybe even teach you how to sit up straight.

Until last week, I always thought that meant arching my back, stretching myself up, up, up–all the way toward the ceiling.  But, I was wrong. Sitting up straight actually means shifting your weight back so that your head, neck and spine are in perfect alignment (no arch or curve of your spine, whatsoever). Why does it matter? Well, if you find that after a few hours at your desk, you suffer from lower back or neck pain, you might want to examine how, exactly, you sit.  You’ll likely find that a few ergonomic tweaks make all that time at the office more enjoyable (though I can’t do anything about your boss!).

Besides feeling a little taller and much more relaxed, after our session, I got busy with Angeliki’s amazing collection of floral scented bath products, lotions and oils by girly brands like Cath Kidston.  Yum!

A big thanks to NYC’s ultimate Greek goddess!

Book a class or private session at Living Room Soho here.