Gail Gratzel, RYT 500
She sent a bunch of trainings and dates, but it seems to be just these: Chair Yoga, Trauma Informed Yoga, Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care
Gail originally began her yoga practice after purchasing a Groupon in 2012, and so her journey began. Gail started by taking many restorative classes as she was healing from some curve balls that life had thrown my way. As she became more curious, she began to explore classes that were outside of her comfort zone, and ultimately the path led her to her first teacher training with Ever Yoga at Highland Yoga in 2019.
Gail’s interests lie in the areas of domestic violence and trauma, as well as senior populations, and populations that may have physical restrictions or disabilities that may limit them from taking traditional mat yoga classes. She currently teaches chair yoga classes that continue to challenge her student’s growth mentally and physically. She always offers options, so that students can arrive where they need to be during the class.
She believes that there are no words to describe the physical and mental benefits that yoga can bring into a person’s life. She is grateful for having the practice of yoga in her life, as well as being able to share with others what she has learned.
“Yoga has been an amazing and transformational journey for me. My love of learning will never stop. I am so thankful for all of the wonderful yoga teachers who have helped me along the way. The support, kindness and knowledge I have been given will be passed on and on in each class that I teach.”
Gail also enjoys gardening, long walks in nature, cooking, the beach and spending time with her family, friends and dog.
Testimonials
“It was amazing!! Gail is a wonderful instructor, I always feel better after a class, physically and mentally!” - DD
“I love, love, love Chair Yoga with Gail Gratzel on Friday mornings at 11! Despite being a longtime yoga practitioner at Highland, I never considered doing yoga while sitting on a chair. However, in 2022 I needed knee replacement surgery, and the only yoga that I was able to do was Gail's class. I tried it and look forward to doing it weekly ever since, along with other yoga classes and pilates. I think the name "Chair Yoga" makes students think that it's easy and that you don't get a good workout. On the contrary, her class works every part of the body, including hands, feet, and joints. We stretch, we hold positions, we do standing balance and leg lifts, and my body gets a great workout. The guided meditation and "chair savasana" at the end of class is transportive. I highly recommend this class.” - AF
Get to know Gail…
What is a challenge in your own yoga practice?
I am challenged with incorporating the yoga principles of mindfulness, balance, and compassion for myself. This is challenging for me, since I rarely put myself first. I need to take more time for my own self-care.
What is something you’ve learned about yourself from teaching yoga?
I have learned that I am physically and mentally stronger than I thought I was. I have learned that I am more confident than I thought I was. I’ve also discovered that I love to teach yoga and share all that I have learned with my students to help them grow on their yoga journey.
What about teaching lights you up the most?
I think that I just love the end of my classes, bringing the students out of savasana and guided meditations. The calmness, kindness, gentleness and aura in the room are inexplicable. It keeps us all coming back for more.
General Weekly Schedule
Fridays 11:00am: Chair Yoga (Live-Stream)