Barbie riding in Union Square NYC

Those of you who follow me on Facebook may know that I am an avid Soulcycle (indoor cycling class) fan. When I first started riding In November 2013, I did so because I wanted to lose a few summer pounds. Soon after I realized what kept me coming back was feeling that I was part of a growing community in a city where I virtually had only a few friends.

Fast forward to December 2014 when my Soulcycle teacher, Jenny Gaither, asked me to be a part of her charity, Movemeant Foundation's, photo shoot. I was flattered and immediately said yes. When I read the shoot breakdown, which mentioned posing in San Francisco's Union Square around hundreds of strangers in just a sports bra and leggings, the fear immediately set in. However, the moment the photographer started shooting our group my fears of how my stomach would look in the photos completely disappeared. I was, and remain proud, to represent my body type to the world. Being surrounded by ladies, and a few of their daughters, of all shapes truly changed my own ideas of self worth. Now most of the time I find myself comfortable enough to take off my shirt when it is too sweaty in class.

That day, I found my own way of doing Tikkun Olam, repairing the world. It is something that I teach to my students, but had not had devoted time for in personal life the past two years. I wanted to sink my teeth in, and get as involved as possible in promoting positive body image. Co-founder of Movemeant Foundation, Charina Lumley, offered me a role on the organization’s board and I jumped at the opportunity to be involved.

Movemeant Foundation recognizes and addresses the critical needs of our society by developing an innovative, multi-dimensional approach that utilizes advocacy and awareness for positive body image, peer-based mentorship/role models, and financial grants that make physical movement a reality.

A bad foot injury in February kept me from riding at our first Dare to Bare event in San Francisco. Luckily my incredible cousin Kelly rode my bike for me as a family representative. Thank you Kelly!! Now that my foot is partially healed I am looking forward traveling to NYC for round 2 of our Dare to Bare fitness festival Oct 4th in New York City and riding my Soulcycle bike. I will be helping the set up for the Festival and helping hand out event pamphlets to other participants.

I humbly ask for any help you can provide for my October trip to fulfill my own Tikkun Olam mission. My injury had me working less all summer so this trip is a very big deal. Any donation is appreciated and I understand if you do not have the means to help.

My goal covers my transportation to and around New York City, meals and my fundraising commitment. If anyone would like to donate airline mileage for a direct flight that would also be appreciated.

https://assets.gogetfunding.com/barbie-riding-in-union-square-nyc/

Happy New Year and Shana Tova!

All my best,

Barbie