Rachel Applegate
Private Yoga Teacher
meet rachel
I stumbled into my first yoga class in 2006, awkward and inflexible, and walked out feeling a connection between my mind and body. The more I practiced, the more I noticed a growing awareness within myself.
More mindful, more peaceful, more in tune.
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I completed my initial 225 hour teacher training in 2010 at Yogalife Institute. Since then, I have continued to deepen and expand my knowledge of functional anatomy, sustainable and accessible movement, and mindfulness, receiving specific training in teaching private yoga, accessible yoga, and completed my
500 hour advanced yoga training.
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I have a passion for making yoga accessible and sustainable for every body.
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I specialize in 1x1 private yoga for people who want a practice that is personalized to their unique needs and goals, especially older adults, beginners, and those recovering from injury. I currently teach gentle and chair yoga classes for older adults, perinatal yoga, and slow flow yoga classes. I guide people to connect to themselves in a spacious, compassionate way through mindful movement and quiet stillness. I believe that the practice of yoga should not be performative, competitive, or dogmatic. I hold space for students to find what feels right for their own body by offering multiple variations for poses/movements in a non-hierarchical way. I encourage students to use the tools of the yoga practice to find more ease and intention in daily life.
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When not teaching and practicing yoga, I enjoy reading, baking, hiking, frequenting local coffee shops, and visiting museums. A former art teacher, I try to find time to draw and paint. I currently reside in Phoenixville, PA with my husband and three children.
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Yoga is a practice of connection between all parts of ourselves and the world around us.
"Don't think twice about it, work with Rachel if you want genuine care and attention. Every private yoga lesson I had with Rachel left me feeling rejuvenated, balanced and grounded. She took the time to listen to and understand what was going on in my life and tailored my sessions to help me work through stress, flexibility, and breath work. When I'm back in the area, I will definitely work with her again!"
- David P.
"Rachel is AMAZING! She is extremely professional and really listened to me to develop an individualized practice just for me! She is thoughtful and compassionate. I consider myself lucky to have found her."
- Michelle B.
"I recommend Rachel to anyone. She has helped my balance, breathing, and stress in my everyday life. A true gift and a professional."
- Lisa H.
"I started working with Rachel because I wanted to gain confidence in my skills before returning to yoga classes again. What I got with Rachel was much more than confidence. Rachel helped me to pay attention to my body, to listen when my hips and back felt tight, to receive help and care in the form of using aids (like blocks and bolsters), and to resist the urge to perform and achieve on the mat. It's been good for my body, and for my spirit. Rachel personalized our work together and responded quickly and kindly to my needs on the mat. I cannot recommend Rachel highly enough!"
- Amy Y.M.
