IMG_4805Arielle Ramos is an (MDR) addict, as well as a chef trained at The Natural Gourmet Institute for Health & Culinary Arts. Here’s the best part: She’s going to be sharing her amazing recipes -- complete with step-by-step how-tos and pictures! -- with YOU! Well hello beautiful people! What up what up. My name is Arielle Ramos and I am so excited to be your new healthy recipe blogger here at the studio MDR!

As an LA native, I have always been interested in the body-mind connection and how healthy eating can transform you, both physically and mentally.

In my early 20s, I took off to rural Malvali, India, to study philosophy at an ashram. To fulfill my “karma” duties, I worked in the kitchen and quickly learned from the other women how to create traditional chipatis, delicious daals, and fragrant curries. I fell in love with cooking, and after my time in India, I stayed very interested in plant-based eating. I went on to create and curate a vegetarian recipe and lifestyle blog, Your Vegan Girlfriend, where I focused on creating healthier versions of everyday favorites. After getting my undergraduate degree in psychology, I decided to pursue my passion for cooking professionally and attend culinary school in New York City. I completed the Chef’s Training Program at The Natural Gourmet Institute for Health & Culinary Arts, specializing in organic, seasonal, health-supportive cuisine and nutrition. After graduation, I trained with the culinary director of Real Food Daily and former head chef of Pure Food and Wine in New York City.

I recently moved back to LA and was temporarily living with my good friend Samantha. Each night, I would see my roommate come home, sweaty, smiling and talking about how “crazy” Ky’s class was. She started to get leaner and stronger and more importantly, she remained steadfast and enthusiastic about her always going to class. I wanted that! I hadn’t been to any exercise class in over a year, so making the decision to finally go to a class, knowing I was not even close to my best athletic self, took surrender. I made the jump and signed up for Lindsay’s class on a Sunday afternoon. I walked in terrified and walked out with a monthly unlimited membership. I haven’t looked back since!

I feel so lucky to be apart of such an inspiring community here at The Studio (MDR). I love meeting all of the incredible people who take and teach class, so if you see me on the megaformer next to you and you want to see a recipe for something in particular, let me know!