Mentor in Movement - Byron, California

Barry M.

I discovered an invaluable guide to my health journey with Raquel Otis ‘ Internal Spark program. Internal Spark provided access to Ixcela a complete biometric monitoring program. After initial interviews to set my health goals with Raquel, I submitted my blood samples and received detailed breakdown’s on my metabolite levels revealing nutrient deficiencies that could reduce my overall physical and emotional health. The program provided resources targeting ways to improve my immune response, physical stamina, mental acuity, and emotional resiliency. I continue my check-ins with Raquel on Internal Spark for encouragement in incorporating diet choices, supplements, movement, and emotional reflection. Internal Spark allows me to take control of my own path to health now and in the future.

Charlene M.

So, why did I decide to go on a journey with Raquel and iXcela looking at my health and life? Although I had polio when I was young, I have always been an active person. But at 74 I was experiencing health issues that were impacting how I looked at aging.
When COVID closed the gym classes, Raquel our lives up yoga classes 3 days per week on the Zoom platform. After my husband retired, we added private classes to our weekly routine. I had been experiencing several health issue: balance/falling, heartburn, and sleep issues. I had broken several bones and was looking at having a total hip replacement in the near future. Raquel's classes went so far beyond yoga poses. We talked about books and issues relating to our health and aging. This last year I developed a severe lung infection that made me decide to look into how to improve my overall well being. I was not only having breathing issues, but the drugs I was prescribed caused tremors in my hands. I also had been taking heartburn medication for decades and had digestion issues. Raquel and I talked about what changes I could make to my diet that would, hopefully, improve my health, specifically my gut health. She suggested using the iXcela program that looks at metabolites and what they do for your gut health. We did an initial comprehensive diet and lifestyle survey. One outcome was realizing how much caffeine, in the form of tea, I was drinking. So the first change was cutting down the vast amount of tea and adding water and electrolytes. After doing the simple blood test, the results suggested changes that added fermented foods, varied fruits and vegetables, and supplements that would support metabolites that were below optimal levels. Raquel took me to the grocery school and pointed out foods that would support our goals. There was a vast amount of food that I had just never considered. I was floored when I realized that within weeks I no longer needed my heartburn medication. Within a few months, the tremors in my hands lessened and finally completely disappeared. This wasn't a "diet"; It was looking at food differently. I didn't find the changes difficult. I started thinking about how food would help my health, not just putting food in my mouth. Throughout this time, Raquel was there as my advocate offering knowledge and support.
I cannot express the gratitude I have for having Raquel in my life. She goes so far beyond the norm for her clients. Her research into the science behind the iXcela gives credit to her dedication. Her vast knowledge of yoga techniques (poses, breath work, meditation) shows in her classes, tailoring each session to what her clients need.

I had a good friend that had been diagnosed with ALS. I asked Raquel if she would talk to him about breathing exercises. She researched ways to help him and they worked together for several year. his life was better knowing Raquel.Thank you.

Tani M.

Yoga with Raquel for Earth day was incredible! I enjoyed everything from the beautiful sights and sounds under the oak tree to the gentle yoga and breath movements. I especially loved Raquel's gentle voice guiding me through each movement. I had set my intention to be present in the moment and take the time for my body and mind, and that's exactly what I was able to do. An unexpected added bonus was that my right shoulder pain had noticeable improvement. I am thankful for Raquels experience and commitment to her continued training. Thank you for a beautiful morning Raquel! It was everything I expected it would be and more!

Jennifer N.

Raquel is a blessing! Her gentle hand, kind, caring and sensitive spirit has made my son Blake’s introduction and experience to yoga, a successful one. Blake has a muscle disorder called Myotonia which causes stiffness in his hands, knees, feet and cheeks on a daily basis. Once he started working with Raquel with gentle yoga, melting, etc….he sleeps better, he’s more relaxed and feels better when he does his own gym workout. I see him feeling better and resting better and it makes me happy to hear him say he looks forward to his sessions with Raquel every Thursday. I’m so grateful for her knowledge and wisdom to keep my son and myself educated throughout the wellness plan she has created and customized for him. We are fortunate to be her client and her friend. Thank you Raquel!!!

Ma. J. V. A.

Practicing yoga with Raquel is one of the best decisions I made in my life. As a home-based working teacher-mom, stress would most of the time manifest through pain in my body which often lead to lack of sleep, irritability and short temper. Through the yoga and breathwork exercises I did with Raquel, my body began feeling lighter and I started sleeping way better. With her guidance, I became aware of how to decrease my stress levels by being mindful of how I move and breathe. To my surprise, even my friends started to notice a certain glow and change in me.

Even if I am from the Philippines, our time difference was never an issue. Raquel doesn’t just teach. She guides you gently step by step with love, care and authenticity which you will definitely see and feel during every practice. I especially will never forget how much she has shown empathy and compassion towards me during sickness and grief.

I am forever grateful and blessed for having the chance to get to know Raquel and practice with her. ❤️❤️❤️

ava T.

Yoga on Sunday morning was such an amazing way to start my day. Life can be hectic and being able to relax and listen to nature is so calming. Raquel did an amazing job instructing, which makes even a beginner like me feel ease.

Duane N. (. R.

I was stressed out and having shoulder and lower back pain. I only have 1 kidney so I am picky when it comes to medicine. Raquel has changed my life and love the way she explains to me about how my body works. You can tell that she cares about my health and educating me on why I need to breathe. Knowing why I do the stretch and how to do the stretch is so helpful to making me feel better. I can tell you this when I leave my session with her I feel like I am floating on a cloud because I am so relaxed. I sleep better at night because my body feels so good. My stress and pain subsides and I feel 20 years younger. I recommend all men especially blue collar men to go to Raquel because she will literally change your life. Knowing why and how is so important. She is amazing and her service is the best. My fear later in life was I would not be able to move very well but with yoga I will be able to be very active later in life. Thank you for all you do we need more people like you that care about people and your passion for healing people the right way.

Lisa A.

What a peaceful way to start off a Sunday morning. I attended this event by zoom and was blessed by the presence of Raquel. What a peaceful soul she is and what a beautiful heart to enrich others with the gift of taking care of ourselves. Her voice, tone, and words are healing. Thankful for these kind of moments and others taking the time to feed into us. ♥️