Soul Squeeze Yoga and Massage owner named as best pilates instructor on the Gold Coast
A Gold Coast woman who has been named the best pilates instructor in the region has shared her heartbreaking story behind why she got into the industry.
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A Gold Coast woman who has been named the best pilates instructor in the region has shared her heartbreaking story behind why she got into the industry.
Willow Vale pilates studio Soul Squeeze Yoga and Massage owner Natalie Rasmussen said she was “grateful” for her community that had helped her build her business.
She was recently voted in by Gold Coast Bulletin readers as the best pilates instructor on the Gold Coast.
Ms Rasmussen opened Soul Squeeze five years ago, only nine months after her husband of 20 years, Blake Rasmussen, suddenly died.
“I loved everything about him,” she said.
“He was just an all around lovely person and I’m so grateful we had him in our lives for the time that we did.”
Ms Rasmussen said she made the decision to open her own studio because she was unable to provide for herself and her three children on one wage.
“It was the most difficult time in our lives so I knew I had to turn something very difficult into something that would get us through,” she said.
“I didn’t realise yoga and pilates would not only be a second form of income but something that actually helped with the healing process.
“(The studio and community) is literally what makes me smile everyday as well as keeping me physically and mentally fit.”
Ms Rasmussen said she teaches up to 12 classes a week which can include private lessons for those who aren’t as confident.
She said she believed the reason pilates had blown-up around the world was because it was suitable for all ages and gender.
“But mostly it’s actually fun to do.”
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