Nikki has developed The Ralston Method from over 20 years experience working with the human body.
Harmoniously integrating the traditional teachings of yoga with a more modern understanding of functional anatomy, The Ralston Method prioritises intelligent sequencing and sound body alignment, while re-educating compensatory movement patterns to bring more ease to the whole mind-body system.
Nikki has devised her own 'Ralston Method' which provides life enhancing practices, combining science backed protocols with the best elements of traditional yoga practices weaved seamlessly together with a deep understanding of functional anatomy, The Ralston Method prioritises intelligent sequencing and sound body alignment, while re-educating compensatory movement patterns to bring more ease to the whole mind body system.
Her classes and trainings are strong yet grounded, guiding her students to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, giving skilled yet simple cues from her deep understanding of the human body and subtle energies. The Ralston Method is unique and inclusive in the way that it creates an environment for transformative experience and truly is a practice that lasts a lifetime. Balanced by her delightful and quirky sense of humour, Nikki encourages students to reclaim the joy within their practice and life.
Nikki regularly speaks at wellness and corporate events, teaches workshops and leads retreats. Nikki is at the forefront of revolutionising the practice of yoga, she is passionate about upholding a high standard of teaching in NZ and has created a 250hr Teacher Training Program and continued education programs designed to mentor and educate teachers, personally guiding them along their path to greatness.
The was the owner of Urban Ashram studios for 9 years in Auckland, she has been a featured teacher at Wanderlust festival NZ/Aus, she has been the yoga teacher to the NZ Warriors, the Blues and many other national sporting teams, Nikki gives back to the community by supporting various charities, she is also a solo mother to her gorgeous teenage daughter and an all-round wellness powerhouse. Off the mat you will usually find her flipping handstands at the beach or blissing out in nature. Nikki only collaborates and partners with brands who are genuinely interested in helping people live healthier, happier lives, if you are interested please contact us.
"I believe that we are all born to shine bright as children do, as we let go of our fears and step into our light, we inspire others to do the same"
Being adaptable as humans is key for peak performance, riding through the natural stressors of life and our overall wellbeing.
The Ralston Method has 3 styles of practice designed to compliment and help balance your mind, body and heart, STRONG, CENTERED and ALIGNED will connect you back to who you truly are and allow you to shift further into your own possibility. All levels from beginner to advanced are well taken care of under The Ralston Method practices.
STRONG
A dynamic movement based practice to help to re educate your movement patterns, building stability and confidence both on and off the mat. Find the balance between strength and flexibility with a focus on core integration in every class. With clear direction you with be safely guided to move your body and shift your perspective beyond limitation. Increasing vital energy in the body and learning how to direct and channel that energy into all aspects of your life. TRM Strong is unique, inclusive and empowering, you don’t have to be strong before you start, this will help you build strength
Who is it best for?
Someone who likes to move in dynamic and fluid ways, who is looking to challenge their body and focus the mind though mindful intelligent sequencing.
CENTERED
The perfect Yin to Strong's Yang, a mostly floor based practice and longer holds in poses to work on the connective tissue and meridian lines of the body. Regulating energy flow, lubricating joints and increasing pliability in the tissues. This practice calms the nervous system and helps balance the whole body mind system. A less physically challenging class, but often more challenging for the mind. Working with the breath for a nourishing meditative experience. A Centered practice will leave you feeling renewed, grounded and calm.
Who is it best for?
Someone who is very physically active. Very helpful for people with high stress, autonomic arousal and/or difficultly sleeping.
ALIGNED
Learn how to refine your asana with sound body alignment techniques, focus the mind while re-educating compensatory patterns in the body. The slower pace of Aligned allows a deeper inquiry into your practice. Uncover new depths of understanding, stability and control. Clear alignment cues and a fresh approach to traditional poses, will help you to unravel the mysteries of the body and assist you move with more consciousness in Strong and other styles of flow based classes. Aligned will help you learn how to safely approach inversions and how to use props to assist yourself in any practice.
Who is it best for?
Someone who wants to challenge themselves physically yet enjoys a slower pace to fully understand and integrate the alignment into their body.