Exploring Life & Business with Kibra VanHorn-Williams of The Neon Movement Wellness Center

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kibra VanHorn-Williams .

Hi Kibra, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
This part of my story begins with being diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis and being given a prognosis of an early death. Growing up as an army brat I’ve experienced many adventures and always believed in reaching for the stars and getting my happy ending. At 34 I was a single parent of two boys, whom I love immensely and that diagnosis changed everything for me. I went through so much physically, mentally and spiritually. There were times when I was paralyzed had to learn to walk and even talk again because of paralysis. I’ve suffered from seizures and extreme pain and anxiety. One doctor told me I needed to get down to a healthier weight and to get stronger. He said you must be strong enough to live with this disease. (Many MS patients fall because of balance issues and/or weakness.) I was also morbidly obese. I decided to do whatever I could to extend my life. For my sons. For my future grandkids. I lost 70 lbs in 2 years and then decided to become a personal trainer after seeing how a healthier lifestyle changed my life. I felt great. I started the Neon Movement: War on Obesity as a simple call to action to get up and move. To take care of yourself. I began promoting it on social media, at the YMCA and wherever I went. I wore bright neon yellow or green and commanded attention to my cause. I also wanted my boys to see their mother do something positive and something she loves. I wanted them to see me happy. BH’s population has a high obesity rate and a sedentary lifestyle was the norm for many. I wanted to break that generational curse. I wanted people to understand that exercise is normal, eating right is normal. Being healthy should be a goal. I partnered with another friend in fitness and we started a business together. Eventually, The Neon Movement became a ‘dba’. We had many group classes and fitness challenges for the community to participate in. The Neon Movement got its own space in 2020 and our name changed to The Neon Movement Wellness Center. I had changed and during my journey, realized that mindset was one of the biggest obstacles of many individuals when it comes to excelling. I earned my personal training certification in 2016 and then chose a specialty of Exercise Therapy. I chose this to broaden my client base to include those with chronic conditions such as MS, Parkinson, diabetes, hbp, cancer patients and the injured. Even pregnant women and the mentally & physically impaired. In 2019 I published my first book, “Mourning for Self ” and co- authored another( “Girl Get Your Fight Back, Finish Strong Annointing.” I was on a healing journey. A road towards homeostasis. And so I had to be all that I could be, like my dad was for us. Right before the pandemic hit, I had gotten into yoga which lead me to meditation. I began my meditation certification right before the pandemic and it really helped to ground me. I actually was super focused, ate right, exercised and enjoyed the time home with my husband, who I married as soon as “outside” opened back up. Now, the Neon Movement sits downtown in a private studio at the Vincent in the heart of Benton Harbor ‘s Arts District. We accept one private personal training and yoga clients. We offer Exercise therapy, Couples yoga, Glute Training, Reiki healing massage and Wellness Coaching. The Neon Movement has hosted many community events with one of the better known ones being the Annual Women’s Empowerment Day. It included a double dutch and hula hoop contest, a live dj, dancing, local vendors, prizes and more. At the Neon Movement Wellness believe the health of our people is key to the rise of the community. And it doesn’t stop at the physical. The Neon Movement is a bold company with a bold owner. Kibra is an author of two books and co-author of another, does motivational speaking, professional development and seminars for organizations, companies and schools. She takes pride in being positive and trying to make the world a better place. She jokes with her husband that they are pinky and the brain. Because we are just crazy enough to really try to change the world.
Currently the Neon Movement is producing a docuseries called Real Wives of Benton Harbor to highlight the beautiful women in and from BH and cast a positive light on our amazing city.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been easy. Some struggles we’re financial, illness was a big one, especially physically and mentally, struggling with poor mental health during illness or stressful times.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Neon Movement Wellness Center ?
The Neon Movement Wellness Center is a boutique Wellness studio. We offer all things wellness/fitness. From personal training, yoga, exercise therapy, reiki, wellness coaching, meal planning, group classes, guided meditation, couples yoga, kids yoga, wellness retreats, motivational speaking. The NM specializes in Exercise therapy and guided meditation. I’m known for my calm, positive and uplifting demeanor. I’m also known for starting the WOMEN’S Empowerment Day, The Benton Harbor Biking Club and The BH WalkFit Club.
What sets me apart is I’ve lived what I teach. And No one else has my style of teaching, my passion or presence. I want readers to know that you are Safe with me. And I smile alot. I’m happy on purpose because I’ve been majorly unhappy before. I went From Disabled to Able! And I’ve probably been where you have been. I’m kind, knowledgeable and direct. I dont enable. I help you let go so you can become who you really Are.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice to anyone Starting in fitness or any position really. Be yourself. Strive for excellence. Dont stop learning. Everyone won’t get it. They might shoot your idea down or laugh. It doesn’t matter. Dont be afraid to ask for help.
Write down your goals and achieve them one by one. And teach your kids better than you learned so the next generation is even better.

Pricing:

• PERSONAL TRAINING $350 PER MONTH
• Couples( Tantric) Yoga Session$75
• Personal Yoga Session $55
• Wellness Coaching $149
• Motivation Speaking $500 & Up

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.neonmovementwellness.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19vkmdVgeU/
• Other: https://a.co/d/4Ek5cxO