Andrea Arriaga

Guest Trainer: Ayurveda, Philosophy, Ethics

E-RYT 500hr

DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING BACKGROUND:
I have been teaching yoga for 25 years.

I teach all forms of Hatha Vinyasa Yoga, including gentle, traditional vinyasa, power yoga, Shadow Yoga preludes, and alignment-based practices.

I have studied extensively under Matt Pesendian and have completed trainings and coursework with Shadow Yoga founder Zhander Remete and Emma Balnaves, as well as Shiva Rea, Saul David Raye, Mark Whitwell, Dharma Mittra, and Janet Stone. I am an RYT 500.

My relevant professional background outside of yoga includes Ayurvedic Practitioner, NBHWC Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Certified Breathwork Facilitator, Thai Yoga Therapist, Essential Oils Educator, Vipassana Meditation practitioner, Stott Pilates training, UCSD Certification in Exercise Science and Fitness, BA in Biological Anthropology (UC San Diego), and MBA in Ecology & Anthropology (University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa).

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TRAINEES GAIN FROM YOUR PORTION OF THE TRAINING?
I hope trainees will gain a deeper understanding of yoga as a holistic lifestyle, recognizing that asana is only one tool within the broader practice. The intention is for trainees to more fully integrate yogic philosophy and principles into their daily lives and teaching, and to understand why this integration matters as yoga extends beyond the studio, into the real world.

DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE:
I teach intuitively, allowing classes to be guided by the seasons, natural rhythms, and the energy of the day. Each breath leads the next transition, and each posture is woven into a living flow. I blend philosophy, poetry, science, and yogic principles into movement, emphasizing energetic alignment and embodied awareness. My classes feel grounded, strong, soulful, and deeply connected to the body’s intelligence and breath.

WHAT DO YOU BRING TO THE GRASSROOTS YOGA COMMUNITY?
I bring a strong, calming presence and a deep love of nature, diversity, and community. Growing up in Ventura with an immigrant father from Mexico and a mother from a long line of local Ventura activists, I carry a deep sense of rootedness and responsibility. Having lived internationally for much of my adult life, I bring a global perspective while remaining deeply committed to giving back to my hometown of Ventura. I believe in the power of yoga to create meaningful change off the mat and within the community.

A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOU:
I am a mother who loves to surf, travel, garden, and cook. I can be found almost every day at some point on the sand or in the water, walking, reading, surfing, or playing in the water.