MY STORY

A TAPESTRY OF TRANSFORMATION

I am Leslie Salmon Jones, a guide on a dedicated path to help individuals, communities, and youth master their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. My journey is a harmonious blend of professional dance, yoga instruction, wellness coaching, public speaking, and community activism — a tapestry unfurling with every step.

MY BEGINNINGS

Growing up in a multicultural family laid the foundation for embracing diverse individuals as my extended family. Yet, in a predominantly white neighborhood, I faced racial discrimination from a young age. Lessons from my parents, Dr. Beverley Salmon and Dr. John Douglas Salmon—trailblazers in health care, civil rights activism, and community transformation—guide me in navigating challenges with resilience and compassion.

DANCE AS A SACRED GATEWAY

Embarking on a journey to heal my cultural identity, I followed my heart and nurtured my passion within the esteemed corridors of the renowned Alvin Ailey School in New York. This professional dance environment introduced me to the transformative teachings and practice of yoga, profoundly shaping my existence for three decades and marking the inception of my dedicated exploration into the realm of mind-body wellness.

GROUNDED IN WISDOM

Building the foundation of my transformative healing work through dance, my educational roots took hold at SUNY, NYC, where I cultivated a foundation in interdisciplinary studies in health sciences and dance. This holistic grounding became the canvas for my life's work. I bring the wisdom of a 500hr yoga teacher and certified wellness coach, instilling a deep understanding of human potential and holistic well-being. The intricate dance of mind, body, and spirit unfolds as I continue over the decades on my transformative journey. I've had the honor of being guided by teachers, mentors, thought leaders, healers, family, and friends who have supported my journey and shaped my path.

A HOLISTIC STUDIO IN NYC

Inspired by the desire to impart the transformative essence of healing movement, yoga, and overall well-being, I established a studio nestled in the heart of NYC. This sanctuary seamlessly integrated holistic personal training, wellness coaching, and community activism. Over a decade, I collaborated intimately with hundreds of clients, tailoring individual programs and crafting stories of transformation. The "Living From Your Core" program emerged, alongside specialized training, courses, and workshops for individuals, organizations, and underserved communities, both locally and nationally.

LIVING FROM YOUR CORE DVD SERIES

Venturing beyond the studio, my husband Jeff and I co-produced two transformative wellness DVDs: "Core Strength: Back to Basics" and "Core Power: Radiate the Energy Within." These accessible offerings stand as guiding lights, leading individuals worldwide toward holistic well-being, marking the initiation of our collaborative journey.

AFRO FLOW YOGA: A VISION MANIFESTED

In partnership with my husband, Jeff Jones—a multi-instrumentalist, recording artist, and musical director—our collaborative vision, integrating our unique gifts and passions, materialized. Together, we brought to life Afro Flow Yoga®, providing a diverse array of experiences, from weekly classes to monthly workshops, retreats, teacher training programs, and outreach initiatives. Each element is carefully crafted to foster diversity, inclusion and interconnection. Our impact extends far beyond the confines of Boston and New York, reaching communities worldwide.

CO-CREATION AT OMEGA WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP INTENSIVE

In collaboration, I co-created and co-facilitated the annual Omega Women’s Leadership Intensive. This transformative week brings together 30-40 women leaders yearly from around the globe. We delved into themes of embodied leadership, intersectionality, and the cultivation of values, voice, vision, voyage, and vessel.

ADVOCACY FOR ANTI-RACISM AND INCLUSIVITY

My advocacy work extends to board leadership, urging organizations and corporations to embrace anti-racist and inclusive cultures. I've proudly served on the Yoga Alliance Board, the United Nations Association of New York, and contributed to Free Arts for at-risk youth.

A COMMITMENT TO CHANGE

In every role and endeavor, my commitment remains—to be a catalyst for positive change. With a heart fueled by passion and a spirit anchored in well-being, I invite you to explore the rich tapestry of my experiences and knowledge.

May this journey inspire and uplift you.

With Love and Transformation, Leslie Salmon Jones

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