When Yoga Feels Like Coming Home
Christina Baggott, founder of Yoga Soul in Portola, California: a yoga mentor supporting new and aspiring teachers in learning and implementing trauma-informed practices.
For Christina, yoga has always been more than movement.
It’s been a way to come home to herself.
Each time she steps onto the mat, it’s not only to teach, it’s to grow.
And she knows many teachers feel the same.
They come to yoga with lived experience, resilience and depth.
Yet despite earning their certifications, many hesitate to teach.
Fear, bias and misconceptions about what yoga “should” look like can hold them back.
Christina’s work is about offering that extra layer of support.
The encouragement.
The guidance.
The trauma-informed lens that allows teachers to feel confident serving diverse populations in meaningful and inclusive ways.
Facing Misconceptions Head On
When Christina first began sharing her practice online, she was unprepared for the backlash
She received messages claiming yoga conflicted with Christianity.
Bible verses were quoted at her.
Some accused yoga of promoting false gods.
Others sexualised the practice.
It was overwhelming.
At times, it felt relentless.
But instead of retreating, Christina adapted.
She explored alternative marketing strategies and refined her messaging.
She became clearer about what she offers and what she stands for leaving less room for misunderstanding.
What could have shut her down became an opportunity to strengthen her voice.
Creating Safe Space in a Divided World
One of Christina’s ongoing challenges is navigating spiritual belief systems around yoga.
There can be social fear around holistic practices.
Some people are curious and open to experiencing how yoga can support their growth and healing.
Others are resistant and that’s okay.
But as a small brick-and-mortar studio owner, building a safe and welcoming community space requires clarity, patience and resilience.
Christina continues to evolve, reaching out to aligned organisations and staying flexible in her approach.
For her, it’s about consistently connecting with the right audience: the teachers and students who are ready for trauma-informed, inclusive and compassionate practice.
At Reignelle, we celebrate women like Christina who choose courage over criticism, building spaces where healing, growth and understanding can thrive, even in the face of misunderstanding.