Raquel (EYRT500 , YACEP, Yin, Viniyoga) began practicing in a studio over 25 years ago with her first Iyengar teacher Jan Campbell in Nashville, TN. The precision of this practice along with the deep body/mind connection resonated profoundly within her. After moving back to her hometown of Los Angeles, Raquel was fortunate enough to experience a multitude of approaches and styles. Alongside her passion for yoga, she began the practice of Zen Buddhism; taking her Buddhist precepts (Jukai) in 2002.

 

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Inspired by art, creativity, and belonging, Raquel creates a practice that brings to life the holistic and healing nature of yoga; a practice where everyone belongs. A self-identified biracial Mexican-American, her faith in the practice of “allowing” inspires people of all orientations to simply, yet deeply, access and connect more passionately with spirit. Her teaching style integrates real-life experience and the science and philosophy of yoga; enhancing a spiritual, mental and physical context for your body and mind in the world.

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Raquel leads various 200 and 300hr YTTs as well as a multitude of soul-based workshops; in addition, she is a sought-after guest teacher. Always a student, Raquel studies Vedic chanting at KYM in Chennai, Ayurveda with some of the world's most respected teachers, Vedanta with Jyothi Chalam, and often pilgrimages to India to honor and stay connected to the rich legacies of yoga.

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As a guest speaker and conference presenter, Raquel leads large-scale yoga and meditation sessions. In addition to guiding audiences in these practices, Raquel gives talks on Diversity and Inclusion to honor the stories of our lived experiences. Having studied sculpting in Italy, together with her love of poetry writing, she believes all life is art.

 

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Raquel is unendingly humbled and honored by the students who practice with her and how profoundly these ancient teachings have influenced her growth as a constant student of this amazing and beautiful life.