About Rachel

I had a long-standing, intermittent relationship with yoga.

For nearly 20 years I'd start taking classes and give up quickly. I was in love with the feeling yoga provided, but daunted by the more bendy students and my own insecurities.

I'm not very flexible. And I don't think any of my friends would use "zen" to describe me out of a million words. It felt like I just didn't fit in the yoga world, though I longed for it.

Enter 2019 and I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 38. Suddenly, my world shifted and shattered. Through my treatments (and thereafter), I was able to find a Yoga for Cancer class at my favorite studio.

Along with the kindness and respite I found there, it ignited a strong desire to fling myself into the yogic world, fitting be damned. I signed up for the 200-hour teacher training course so I could truly understand, cognitively and somatically.

And I found I fit just fine, once I got out of my own way.

I am the teacher who, thanks to my surgeries, had to start from scratch. As such, I have a fundamental understanding of the limitations most new practitioners face and strive to make yoga accessible for all, regardless of yogic knowledge or physical ability.

I believe yoga can benefit every body and everyone.

I look forward to being a light on your path.

Rachel is a 200-hour certified yoga teacher (RYT® 200) and is currently studying for her 300-hour (culminating in a 500-hour certification), both from Yoga House in Pasadena, CA, under the guidance of Farzaneh Noori.

Rachel is also certified in Yin Yoga and Therapeutic Yoga (Level 1). She has studied and trained with such teachers as Paul Cabanis, Melissa Christensen, Cheri Clampett, Leslie Kaminoff, Tias Little, and René Quenell.

Commonly Asked Questions for Zoom Yoga Sessions
(For Yoga House FAQs, click here)

I hate practicing in front of others; do I have to turn on my camera?
Nope! Though, I have the Zoom sessions set up so only I can see the participants. It is helpful for me to see everyone practicing so I can gauge if I need to adjust my instruction. That said, if you will only participate in the session if the camera is off, please feel free. I'd rather have you participate than not.

I've never done any yoga before. Can I still attend?
Yes, of course! Everyone has to start somewhere. Just let me know your knowledge level and I'll instruct accordingly. Also, have patience with yourself—yoga is a practice, don't worry about getting every piece of instruction and have faith you will get it in time.

I do yoga all the time and I like Level 2 classes. Will I be bored?
In yoga, we strive for a balance. Faster classes are great brahmana (yang) practices, but we also need some langhana (yin) for our bodies and minds. This as a change to slow down and be mindful about your movements.

What equipment/props do I need?
Props help us access the poses and meet our body where it is at the moment. While no props are required for this practice, they are helpful. You don't have to buy a thing as you may already have some good props around your home.

Here's a suggested list of items to gather ahead of time, if you have them:

Yoga Mat (otherwise, make sure you aren't on a slippery surface)
Clothing that doesn't restrict movement
Yoga blocks or several thick books
Thick cushions, blankets, or large towels

How long is each class?
60 minutes. (You're worth an hour, doncha think?)

What happens if I sign up for a class and can't come?
Not to worry. Life happens. Hopefully you'll make the next one.

Will you record these sessions?
I am recording the sessions to self assess my teaching. I will not share the recordings at this time. I'd prefer for students to join me for the live class.

When will the Zoom session start? What happens if I'm late?
The zoom will start 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time so you have time to ask questions, gather props, and settle. There will be no admittance to the session 10 minutes after the start time as it is too disruptive to the class.

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