Rachel Schmeling Yoga
My dream is to transform the world by holding space for people to first transform themselves.
In 2015, I took my first yoga class. It was my last semester in college, and I registered at the recommendation from a friend after seeing her do crow pose. I dreamed of balancing on my hands and making beautiful shapes with my body. What I received was something even cooler; myself. Yoga drew me in with the strength, power and grace I felt on the mat. I had never felt ‘strong’ before; I had never been ‘athletic’ and yet here I was, literally bending over backwards, flying upside down . . . I felt connected to my body for the first time in a very long time- maybe ever. I felt more calm, grounded, and at ease .
This began my journey of true healing and coming home to myself.
I have been practicing yoga for almost a decade and have taught for the past 4.5 years. Each day the tradition reveals something new to me, and alongside the connection yoga gave me to my inner world, I have gained a deep respect and appreciation for my body and everything it can do. You will notice an anatomy focus in my offerings, but I do not believe you have to work to fit yoga: yoga will fit you. The tradition will meet you where you are at. Always.
Yoga was a transformative experience for me; I share it today because I believe in the power of movement, breath, and curiosity about yourself. I believe that by taking intentional time to connect with yourself, incredible transformation can occur: if we are open to it. This could be a shift in the body, the mind, or the spirit and I think they're all connected anyhow.
I hold a safe and inclusive space for all people and bodies to ground within themselves, embrace authentic movement, and cultivate inner peace through yoga and meditation; while honoring these practices’ cultural roots.
My vinyasa style is grounded, powerful, and inspires an easeful & steady relationship with your breath. I
I completed my 200 hour Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training with Steph Wall (@stephwallyoga), and am currently pursuing my advanced 300 hour training with her. (expected to complete in 2024). I have continued my education with additional certifications in the Laughing Lotus Vinyasa style (25 hrs) and from various trauma-informed programs (50+ hrs). Along with almost 500 hours of training in vinyasa, yin, and restorative yoga, I have taught thousands of hours of classes in New York City and online.
I am currently taking new private clients on a case-by-case basis, and have paused group class offerings for the time being.
If you are interested in yoga for an event or in the workplace, please send me an email!
COVID-19 POLICY: I am fully vaccinated and new private clients can choose to work together virtually or in person. I will provide any additional safety measures (sanitization, mask-wearing, etc) per clients' request.
Our mission is to create and foster a diverse and inclusive community. We welcome and support clients from all backgrounds, culture and experiences including but not limited to members of any racial or ethnic origins, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender expression, physical or and/or mental ability, socioeconomic status, immigration status, age or nationality.
We expect that each member of this community will hold each other accountable toward our shared mission of diversity and inclusivity and will ultimately uphold the values of generosity, patience, respect and kindness. Discriminatory or intolerant speech or action will not be tolerated. Any breach of these practices may result in immediate termination of any contract, membership, or working agreement.
