Living What She Teaches: Yoga, Activism, and the Power of Starting Fresh

When Laura Antonelli left the lush green of North Carolina for the Arizona desert, she brought more than just her personal training certification and hiking boots—she brought her mission.

A passionate vegan, dedicated animal rights advocate, plant-based chef, and now a graduate of the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training program at Gilbert Yoga College, Laura is the kind of person who lives what she teaches. She's not just about wellness—she's about wholeness.

“I just finished the YTT 200 program and it was life-changing." – Laura Antonelli

As Laura reflects on her journey through yoga teacher training, her words capture both the spirit of her experience and the essence of what she now offers as a teacher. She says:

"Gilbert Yoga—step onto the mat and into your power. This is your invitation to breathe, move, and awaken the sacred within. Join me in a space where strength meets stillness. Let’s cultivate presence, peace, and purpose—one breath at a time. Your journey begins now."

It's more than a call to practice—it’s a call to live with intention, rooted in values that mirror Laura’s own path.

Building a New Life, Breath by Breath

Starting over in a new state isn’t easy—but finding the right community can change everything. For Laura, Gilbert Yoga College became her landing pad and launch point.

Through the 200-hour teacher training program, she found a space that mirrored her values: inclusivity, integrity, mindfulness, and service. The friendships, mentorship, and inner work she encountered during her training helped ease the transition from cross-country newcomer to rooted community member.

Yoga didn’t just give her a new professional skill—it gave her grounding, clarity, and connection.

A Life of Action: From the Mat to the Sanctuary

Laura’s commitment to compassion stretches far beyond the studio. As a volunteer at Goats With Horns Animal Sanctuary in Gilbert, AZ, she spends time helping care for rescued goats and other farm animals. From feeding and cleaning enclosures to offering love and support to animals who’ve faced hardship, Laura shows up with the same heart she brings to her students.

Goats With Horns is a nonprofit that rescues and provides lifelong care for animals that would otherwise be forgotten. Laura’s time there isn’t just service—it’s part of her practice.

You can learn more or get involved at southwestwildlife.org.

Teaching from the Heart

Now that she's graduated, Laura combines her knowledge of strength training, plant-based living, and yoga into a truly integrative approach to wellness. Her classes are rooted in accessibility, body awareness, and emotional presence—helping others find their own balance of strength and stillness.

Whether she’s on the mat, in the kitchen, or knee-deep in goat hay, Laura lives with intention.

She reminds us that yoga isn’t just a practice—it’s a way of life.

Thinking of Becoming a Yoga Teacher?

If Laura's story speaks to you, it may be time to begin your own journey. At Gilbert Yoga College, we offer 200-hour and 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training programs that support your personal growth, deepen your practice, and connect you to a loving, conscious community.

Visit gilbertyogacollege.com to learn more.

Follow Laura:

📸 @plant.proof.phitness🌱 For plant-based inspiration, fitness tips, animal advocacy, and yoga with heart.