Rachel Perrella

Teacher Trainee | 2022 Graduaate

Why did you become interested in a yoga teacher training?

I was looking for an opportunity to deepen my yoga practice for several years. I knew that the Yoga Loft had an amazing teacher training. When I saw what the course entailed, and I also realized the magnitude of experience the faculty had to offer, I decided to jump in.

What did you want to get out of the training?

As previously mentioned, I was looking to deepen my practice, taking a deep dive into the multiple facets of yoga. I also wanted to take skills back to school (my day job as a second grade teacher) and to share the yoga experience with my students and with the faculty.

How would you describe your experience during the training? What did you enjoy? Struggle with? 

The experience exceeded my expectations. I was so impressed by the faculty and their wealth of knowledge. They are so passionate about their work, and they took their time to make sure we were all clear and well versed on the material they were teaching. There was an incredible amount of information to learn, and I was fascinated by all parts of the curriculum. The whole experience was positive; the schedule of one weekend per month made the workload manageable and allowed us to delve into the various topics. It was a formidable commitment, but the knowledge I gained was incredible. The bond that I formed with my fellow trainees will last a lifetime; it was a journey well worth taking.

Did anything surprise you about the training? 

At the end of the program, I was surprised by how eager I was to teach, and how natural it felt to do so. I was well prepared.

Since graduating, how has your training made an impact in your life?

I feel incredibly lucky to have been given the opportunity to teach at the Yoga Loft. As I previously mentioned, I felt I was so well prepared to lead a class, and I am always reflecting back on my training as I am teaching. I have also been able to take my skills back to school. I have been teaching a weekly faculty class, and my work as mindfulness coordinator at school has been greatly enhanced by our training.

I will be forever grateful to all the teachers at the Yoga Loft. My experience has impacted my life in so many positive ways, and I am eager to continue my journey into the yoga world.