About Me
Hello, and a warm welcome!
My name is Lisa Gottsleben, born in Germany and now calling Nanaimo, on beautiful Vancouver Island, my home. I studied social work in Munich between 2016 and 2020, obtaining my Bachelor of Arts in January 2021. My last semesters had a strong emphasis on mental health, wellbeing, and psychology. During my time at university I was working with refugee families in a refugee camp. I was supporting my clients after their arrival, dealing with trauma, stress, limited privacy due to their temporary housing situation, and was part of an initiative that taught women how to swim. One of my most formative experiences was supporting street children in South Africa as a volunteer.
I am also a certified yoga teacher (200 +hours), with a passion for movement and nature. I discovered yoga twelve years ago, when I was on a search to help heal and recover from a spinal injury, that was caused by an accident. I often had pain and was also struggling mentally with the changes and limitations I noticed in my body. For me yoga, other forms of exercise, and breathing techniques helped tremendously: I found new appreciation and acceptance for my body and I learned that slowing down (and resting well), can sometimes propell you forward in life.
Education and Certifications
University of Applied Sciences, Munich 2016 - 2021
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work
Yoga and Ayurveda Center
200 hour Yoga teacher training Certification
25 hour Restorative Yoga Certification
25 hour Ayurveda Certification
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My Philosophy
Home Within is meant to be a special place where women can feel safe, find understanding, and empowerment. I offer individualized coaching services and therapeutic movement that can help in deepening the relationship to oneself and others around us. My focus on the body-mind connection, will blend psychological work, movement, and/ or deep relaxation, together. Examples are: Yoga (yin yoga, restorative yoga, hatha yoga), nature walks, dancing, shadow boxing and progressive muscle relaxation. I am committed to support women in building a solid foundation for themselves, gaining self-esteem and self-compassion, while reducing stress and anxiety. Sessions will include interventions and resources that individuals can fall back on during challenging times.