Carrie Gerstl

Guest Trainer: Hands on Adjustments

E-RYT 500hr, Bikram Yoga Certified, Elements of Power Yoga 200hr, Expressions of Power Yoga & Hands on Adjustments 50hr, Advanced Sequencing 50hr, Empowerment Yoga Essentials 100hrs, Modern Instincts Guided Meditation 150hrs, Guided Meditation Certified, Yin Yang 100 Hr.

TEACHING BACKGROUND:
I have 26 years of teaching experience.

I teach Bikram Yoga (since April 2000), Core Power Yoga (200-hour, February 2011), Elements of Power Yoga (200-hour YTT, 2022), Hands-On Adjustment (50-hour YTT, 2022), Sophisticated Sequencing (30-hour YTT, 2020 and 2022), Modern Instincts, Meditation Teacher Training (2023), Empowerment Yoga Flow YTT (150-hour, 2023), and Yin Yang (100-hour YTT, 2025).

My mentors, teaching influences, and teachers include Vinnie Marino (Yoga Works Santa Monica), Paul Teodo (Bali, Indonesia, formerly lead teacher at Power Yoga Santa Monica and Yoga Works Santa Monica - lineage Bryan Kest, Power Yoga), and Byron De Marse (Bali, Indonesia, formerly lead teacher at Power Yoga Santa Monica - lineage Bryan Kest, Power Yoga).

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from SDSU.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TRAINEES GAIN FROM YOUR PORTION OF THE TRAINING?
I hope trainees will receive clear, simple, and precise sequencing, cuing (movement cues and action cues), and hands-on assists.

DESCRIBE YOUR TEACHING STYLE:
My teaching style is simple, strong, and sequencing-focused, emphasizing movement cues and action cues. I always have a great playlist, as I have a strong affection for music to enhance the class experience. I believe simplicity is sophisticated. I prefer to teach an all-levels class and believe there is room for everybody in my class and on their mat.

I emphasize awareness of breath and sharing from the heart. I aim to create an experience where students can go deeper in all capacities, rather than just an exercise class. I leave room for silence, allowing it to be my co-teacher, and I always leave time for savasana.

WHAT DO YOU BRING TO THE GRASSROOTS YOGA COMMUNITY? 
I bring consistency, reliability, and a high quality of teaching. I show up fully present to teach and be of service to students no matter what is going on in my personal life. I offer positive and real, down-to-earth vibes, authenticity, a sense of humor, and always a great playlist. My own practice is vital to my well-being so I can continue to hold space for students.

A LITTLE MORE ABOUT YOU:

I love to travel, especially to Bali, and look forward to exploring more of Asia. When I’m not taking class or teaching, you can find me hanging out with my dogs at the beach or spending time with family or friends. I am always up for live music, and my favorite foods are sushi and anything Mediterranean. I love personal development and am currently taking a trauma-informed Yoga YTT.