WellcommATX [06.16.25]

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[HIGH FIVE] We gave a High Five to Cicily Oliver, a Certified Yoga and Pilates Teacher at Westlake Country Club, Ballet Austin, and Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in Austin, TX.

WellcommATX: Where do you work…out?

Cicily Oliver: I try to get in a little movement every time I teach, but when I have space for a full session, I love taking Ashtanga Yoga with Olly Pryce. She teaches at both My Vinyasa Practice and Life Time Fitness South Austin. I also head to Life Time for a sculpt or yoga class with Ramsay Wall, Anna Felz, or Rebecca Rendon. Each of them brings a unique energy that keeps me coming back.

For Mat Pilates, I go to Todd Gibbs at ToddPilates South—his classes are upbeat and fun, and they fly by. For Reformer Pilates, I train with Vlada Sheber at Ballet Austin. Recognized by Austin Fit Magazine as 2024’s Best Pilates Studio and Best Instructor, Ballet Austin and Vlada consistently deliver focused, challenging sessions that keep me growing.

I don’t get to practice with her as often these days, but my teacher Liv Toepfer at The Center for Harmonic Resonance always brings me back to center. Her approach to meditation, breathwork, and yoga is both grounding and expansive. She’s taught me so much about spirituality and the deeper layers of yoga—and also facilitated my yoga teacher training alongside Ramsay Wall.

WATX: What does “wellness” mean to you?

CO: To me, wellness is a sustained commitment to choices that support long-term health and vitality. As someone managing multiple autoimmune conditions, that includes reducing inflammation, maintaining gut health, regulating stress, staying physically active, and fostering meaningful personal connection.

WATX: What are your wellness goals over the next twelve months?

CO: I’d love to work with a trainer who can help me build a smart, intuitive strength routine—something that supports long-term health, recovery, and real-life resilience. I’ve got a solid foundation in yoga and Pilates, and now I’m looking to bring in more resistance-based training. I’m also curious about body recomposition—not from a vanity angle, but to feel stronger, support my metabolism, and take good care of my body as it changes. More than anything, I’m looking for balance—in my body, my schedule, and how I show up for myself.

WATX: Who are some people who inspire you, motivate you, or keep you accountable when it comes to your wellness?

CO: I’ve learned to be my own biggest motivator. Navigating chronic illness has taught me to advocate for myself, do the research, and stay accountable. There are times when I’ve felt totally alone in the process—but I keep showing up. That kind of self-trust took time, and I’m proud of it. It’s made me resilient and deeply in tune with what I need to thrive.

My students are also a huge source of inspiration. I love watching them learn and grow—they come from all kinds of backgrounds and abilities, each with their own struggles and strengths. It’s a privilege to work with so many unique individuals. 

And of course, I’m continually inspired by my teachers, trainers, and mentors. I mentioned most of them already because I still take classes from them and actively learn. Their knowledge and willingness to share keep me motivated and curious on this journey of wellness.

WATX: What advice would you share with someone looking to change their wellness routine?

CO: Start small. Make one change you can repeat tomorrow, then keep going. If you mess up or miss a day, forgive yourself—love yourself—and try again. Every moment is a chance to begin again.

Know a fitness instructor in Austin who deserves a High Five? Click here to submit your nomination so we can consider them for a future WellcommATX High Five profile!

That’s this week’s edition of WellcommATX. Like what you read? Get On The List and get future editions sent directly to your inbox. Have a friend who needs to read WellcommATX? Forward our email to them. Drop us a line at [email protected] or slide in with tips. Until next time, take care of yourself, and take care of each other.

Go For It,

Your WellcommATX Team (@wellcommatx)

Transform Your Self. Transform Your Community. Transform Your World.