Patrick van der Pol

Firefighter, Yogi & Breathwork Guide

From his first karate lesson at age 8, Patrick's life became a journey through disciplined movement; from the precision of Kung Fu to the grounded technique of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, each art shaping his understanding of the body-mind connection. When he discovered yoga, it revealed itself as the complete practice he'd been seeking; not just physical training, but a living philosophy integrating breath, meditation, and ancient wisdom.

His quest for mastery led him to India, where he spent months learning from yogis and masters, absorbing teachings where yoga's roots run deepest. As a professional firefighter, this wisdom became his lifeline; keeping him sharp under pressure, and showing him how desperately first responders need these tools for resilience.

With 500+ hours of yoga training in Hatha, Yin and advanced practices, plus certifications in Breathwork and Oxygen Advantage, Patrick bridges worlds; the firefighter who understands athletic demands, the yogi versed in pranayama's subtle science, the inspired teacher making movement truly functional. His teachings invite students to harness their breath, refine their awareness, and discover strength that serves them both on the mat and in life's toughest moments.

Elisa Ciuffarella - van der Pol

Movement, Sound & Mindful Living

Born in Italy, Eli’s life has been a journey through movement—from competitive swimming and running to martial arts, each step shaping her understanding of the body. When injuries from two car accidents threatened to sideline her, yoga became her path to recovery and self-discovery.

Her quest for deeper knowledge led her to study in India and across Asia, learning from master teachers where yoga’s roots run deepest. After experiencing burnout, she discovered the healing power of her voice and singing bowls, adding a new dimension to her practice, one that harmonizes physical strength with mental balance.

With over 1000 hours of training in yoga (Hatha, Vinyasa, Rocket & Yin), breathwork, and functional movement, plus a degree in Sociology and certifications in Nutrition and Wellness Coaching, Eli blends disciplined practice with intuitive wisdom. Her holistic approach weaves together movement, mindful nourishment, and the science of well-being, empowering students to thrive and to explore their edges, play with curiosity, find stillness in sound to thrive in body and mind.

Whether guiding a powerful Vinyasa flow, breaking down functional movement, leading a restorative sound bath, or diving into the subtleties of breath, Eli’s teachings are an invitation: to rise after the fall, to move with purpose, and to embrace the journey—one breath, one step, one note at a time.

"Movement is not just what we do, it’s how we remember who we are. And sometimes, the
most profound movement is the vibration that brings us back home to ourselves."