The Wonder Barre—a boutique barre, yoga and wellness studio in Armonk, featuring a community-style setting—will host a cacao ceremony for women from 6 to 9 p.m. on August 13. According to owner Robin Flamenbaum, cacao ceremonies are “heart opening rituals” and are among the many monthly events The Wonder Barre offers for people to gather and share an experience. 

“In these ceremonies we sit together in a circle and drink ceremonial-grade cacao,” she says. “We will combine the healing benefits of cacao with contemporary shamanic journeying through drumming and sound healing. This truly transformative experience allows you to connect with like-minded women in a safe, supportive environment.”

Since The Wonder Barre opened last summer, it has also offered a working women’s dinner and drinks, with more events planned as fall approaches.

“I opened The Wonder Barre after 26 years in corporate fashion as a designer,” Flamenbaum says. “I was looking for second chance to reinvent myself, and looking to create a healthier work environment for myself and my instructors. I was convinced there was a need for a place that’s low key and welcoming— no opinions, wear what you want, go at your own pace—and also a place to challenge your inner and outer self. Barre is a safe, low-impact, all-body workout that includes stretching, strength exercises and isometric movements, all using a ballet barre.” 

The Wonder Barre is not a franchise, but a family-owned business that supports the local community and offers unique services, she says. 

“Each instructor brings their own style and challenges to the class. There is not one methodology where you have the class memorized before you arrive. Each class will feel like a different experience. I encourage people with little or no barre experience as well as the barre addict. Everyone will get something different from The Wonder Barre.”

That includes clothing, she adds. “If you are lover of athleisure, we have a curated selection of loungewear that will make you smile.”