Valerie Peña

Val discovered yoga at age 15 and quickly recognized the way it helped slow down the chatter in her mind. Ever since, yoga has been a huge part of her life, complementing her dance training and serving as a practice for both physical and mental well-being.

As a dancer, Val loves designing creative sequences that flow from one pose to the next. Her classes emphasize breathwork, encouraging students to use their breath as a powerful anchor to the present moment. Val’s teaching style is dynamic yet grounded in empathy. It’s important for her to meet each student exactly where they are in their practice. Val strives to create a welcoming and compassionate environment where students feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. She also loves music– and especially enjoys curating playlists that match the energy and vibe of each class, enhancing the overall experience and helping students connect more deeply with their practice.

In 2021, she earned her 200-hour Vinyasa Certification from Yandara Yoga Institute. In 2022, she received additional certification in the Sculpt style from CorePower Yoga and studied yogic philosophy at the Kripalu Institute. In 2024, she completed her 300-hour Ashtanga Vinyasa Certification at the One Breath of Yoga Ashram. Val finds fulfillment in sharing the healing tools of yoga with others as they navigate their own journeys.

  • YOUR TEACHING STYLE: Flowy, supportive, energizing

  • MUSIC/SONGS ON ROTATION IN YOUR CLASS: Jazz house (anything berlioz), indie, rap

  • FAVORITE YOGA POSE: Half moon pose (Ardha Chandrasana) 

  • FAVORITE PHILLY RESTAURANT: Tattooed Mom

  • TWO THINGS STILL LEFT ON YOUR BUCKET LIST: Fly first class, Travel to Asia

  • IF YOU HAD ONE EXTRA HOUR OF FREE TIME A DAY, HOW WOULD YOU USE IT: Bake vegan goodies

  • FIND ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA HERE: @val_pena