What This Year Has Taught Me (Part Two): Trust the Universe AND a BIG Announcement!

In 2015, I was thrilled to open Kalispell's first-ever aerial studio. I had announced that I was stepping away from my role as a hip hop fitness dance instructor (a class I absolutely loved, and which was incredibly popular) to create space for this dream. It was bittersweet to leave Hip Hop, but I was beyond excited for more aerial in my life.

Shortly after announcing the upcoming studio opening, the space I planned to rent realized that the fit wasn’t quite right for their needs. It was unexpected, and I was devastated.  At the time, it felt like everything was falling apart. But now, I can see that moment for what it really was: a gentle redirection. Only two months later, I found a new location that was larger, better suited for aerial, and full of possibility. I didn’t get to open on January 1st like I had hoped, but the February opening was bursting with energy, and that studio supported my aerial growth for the next eight years.

My first aerial studio on Meridian Court

I sold the studio to new ownership in 2022. I stayed on as an instructor for two years but eventually when it came time for me to move on, I wasn’t sure what the future would hold. I focused on what I could control: teaching, performing, and staying connected to the community. My dear friend (and fellow aerialist) Catherine let me set up my aerial rig in her living room, which became my training space for almost a year. But, Catherine had a move planned in May 2025. As her move-out date approached, I once again felt that familiar uncertainty and worry: Where will I go next?

But then, literally right before Catherine's move-out date, we discovered the Level Up space.

Building the new studio at Level Up in April 2025

Level Up was a great fit for Elevated Aerial to get a start. But, the owners of Level Up recently told me they needed our timeslots for their own classes. Instead of spiraling into devastation and worry like I did the first few times I lost a space, I reminded myself: every time I’ve needed a new space, the universe has delivered. Every, single time.

So instead of panicking, I kept doing my manifestation work and trusted that the right path was already forming beneath my feet. And sure enough, just one month later, I found out that the original studio I was in was available once again.

We are excited to announce that Elevated Aerial will be moving to 27 Meridian Court February 1st, 2026.

Returning to a space that once held so much of my growth feels incredibly full-circle. This next chapter isn’t about starting from scratch; it’s about coming home with more wisdom and a deeper understanding of what’s possible.

Today, I feel more supported and aligned than ever. Not because the path has been easy, but because I’ve walked it before and trusted myself through every turn. This journey has reinforced what I’ve always known deep down: I am meant to own a studio and help people discover their strongest, most empowered selves. And, so, 2025 became the year I finally learned to trust the universe; the year I learned that powerful intentions coupled with hard work is enough to allow visions to transform into reality.

This move brings us back to a space where my own aerial roots were originally built; a place connected to my personal journey as a studio owner, teacher, and artist. While this location has seen different ownerships over the years, Elevated Aerial is its own vision, its own evolution, and a fresh chapter guided by the values and leadership that have always defined my work.

A Love Note to Our Founding Students

As we prepare to step into this next chapter for Elevated Aerial, we want to pause and say thank you to our current clients. This studio and community exist because of you. You showed up through transitions, before expansions, and before this full-circle return took shape. Your trust and presence helped manifest everything Elevated Aerial continues to become.

With our upcoming move and expanded offerings (pole fitness, acroyoga, youth classes, student showcases, and more), updated pricing will go into effect in February, my first price increase since 2017. As a heartfelt thank-you to those who have been part of this journey, we’re offering a founding student rate to those who wish to purchase pricing plans before the move. This is an invitation to recommit to your practice, to a space rooted in experienced leadership, and to the life you’re actively designing. You can purchase pricing plans here: Purchase Punch Cards for Single Session Classes

Remember, you don't have to wait until we are in our new space to join us. We have incredible offerings in our current home at Level Up through the entire month of January. We are ready to help you find your best and most empowered self: 👉www.elevatedfitnessmt.com/book

XOXO, ~Mindy

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Mindy Cochran at Level Up Health & Fitness, Photo by Mariah G Photography.

Mindy is a dedicated practitioner, teacher, and performer of aerial silks, aerial hammock, and aerial hoop, and flying pole. With certifications as a personal trainer, nutrition coach, and life coach, she combines her passion for aerial arts with holistic health expertise to help others elevate their wellness. Mindy is also a former health columnist for Montana Woman Magazine, where she shared insights on healthy living and balanced lifestyles.

To connect with Mindy on Instagram, please visit: www.instagram.com/aerial.mindy; or visit her Linktree here.