Salamat derives from common dialects of the Philippines meaning ‘gratitude’ in connection with the Persian translation meaning health. The fusion of influential cultures was designed to advocate global positivity as a gateway to influence new demographics through the perspective of yoga. Founder and yogi Marco Antonio sits down with UNDO for a quick Q&A. You know, so you can get to know him a little better before Saturday’s yoga session on the rooftop of Ace Hotel in Downtown LA. Can’t make this one? Join us every 2nd and 4th Saturday this summer.
Coffee or tea? Tea.
Dream destination for a bike ride/cycling trip? Hawaii. Beach cruisin.
What habit can’t you stand? Procrastination…… . . . .
What habit can’t you kick? Talking fast.
Biggest misperception about you? That I’m an extrovert but I tend consider myself much more of an introvert. Regardless, I’m a cool dude who appreciates engagement as I’m always willing to help others & have a good time.
Your proudest moment? When I was able to fulfill a teenage dream to get flown out of the country to battle in an international b-boy (breakdance) competition. After 10 years in the game, I was able to get my crew & myself to Paris, France to represent USA in a world competition. It taught me that years of hard work truly does pay off & looking back it was a beautiful thing that I also changed the lives of my crew to accomplish our goals together.
Would you ever want to be as famous as Beyonce. Why/why not? Hell Yeah!!! No doubt. She encompasses beauty, power, & art on the highest level.
Favorite recipe for a vegetable. Kale Coconut Smoothie. Kale + Coconut + Honey + Ice Cream + Coconut water + Ice.
When did you last sing to yourself? Today. Kaya by Bob Marley (Irie type of day)
What are 3 essentials that you take with you beyond cell, wallet and keys? Macbook, backpack, & yoga mat.
What is your most essential appliance? Nutri-Bullet.
What is your single most important piece of training advice? Sandbag all day! Take it slow, master the technique, & then turn up!
Do you speak another languages? I wish but I understand Tagalog.
Where did you grow up? Los Angeles (Echo Park/ Filipino Town) Born x Raised.
Favorite scents? Maison No. 04 Bois de Balincourt. Dasein Spring.
Guilty pleasure? Mcdonald’s Double Cheeseburger with Big Mac Sauce 
Pen or pencil? Pencil.
Who is your biggest inspiration? Michael Jackson. Since I was a child, I’ve been captivated by his aura as an entertainer & my admiration grew for him with his contributions as a humanitarian. #RIP #KING
Where do you go to get peace of mind? My master Yoga teacher, Tony Giuliano (The Raven – Silver Lake) has the gift of gab & humor to consistently inspire me through movement discovery + philosophies of Yoga. Noah Levine (Against the Stream Buddhist Meditation Society – Melrose) is able to capture my attention to discover mindfulness in this complicated story called “Life.” Lastly, my mom is always able to check me & help me mentally to rediscover my god-given potential.
What is the first thing that you do in the morning? Look at the time on my phone & then go back to sleep.
What was your favorite year of life? 24 – My golden year of birth. After years of perseverance, I was fortunate that things just fell into place for me that year post design school. I was able to excel as a dancer (b-boy) & I got my 1st corporate job working for Disney as a Visual Merchandising Designer.
If you were to ever change your name legally, what would it be? Ultimate Warrior – after my favorite childhood pro wrestler. Just the kid in me to do something like that
Kale or Spinach? Spinach.
Juice or Smoothies? Smoothies! I used to make smoothies as a high school job & I’ve loved them ever since.
What did you want to be when you were a child? Michael Jackson, Mike Tyson, Bruce Lee, & The Ultimate Warrior. Lover & a fighter.
What did you learn today? Planting manifestation seeds will eventually flourish in mysterious ways.
What did you eat yesterday? Salsa Verde Chicken w/ mixed veggies.
What does happy mean? I really don’t know that answer to be honest, but I’m starting to formulate that it goes along the lines of believing in yourself wholeheartedly & being content with the complexity of simplicity.
What does sacrifice mean? Taking steps backwards to leap forward. The willingness to endure humility for the sole commitment to manifest a vision.
What will be you be remembered for? Hopefully that at the end of the day, I was just trying to inspire & make a difference.
