Meet the Sanctuary's Founders
Elizabeth Borelli, RYT, CBC
My passion for wellness started from my own growth and exploration. I struggled with anxiety, body issues and limiting beliefs as a young woman. It took me many years of inner and outer work for find a healthy way to process and release those stuck emotions in order to heal and move forward.
As I deepened my commitment to intensive study and training in yoga, breathwork and coaching, I realized its power to help others reconnect to their inner-selves too.
Any transformation requires changing both beliefs and behavior, which can be so overwhelming! My goal is to help you to love and accept yourself as you do the inner work. Getting aligned with who we are, accepting ourselves, and feeling whole...
It is possible, starting with you.
Education
- Leadership Development MA Candidate (2023)
- BA Psychology, Eastern Connecticut State University
Certifications and Training
2023 YogaBody Certified Breath Coach
2022 Somatic Experience Intl Level 1 Training Certification
2021 Positive Intelligence (PQ) 6-month Coach Training
2021 Yoga Alliance YTT200 Certified Yoga, Meditation Teacher
2021 PESI Certification; Applied Neuroscience for Treating Anxiety
2019 International Coach Federation, Certified Coach
2019 Designing Your Life Certified Expert
2017 Conversational Intelligence (CiQ) Coaching Certification
2015 Certified WELCOA Workplace Wellness Expert
2012 Certificate in Plant-based Nutrition, eCornell
Learn more about Elizabeth’s work:
Rita Rivera
Originally from New York, Santa Cruz became my home in 1983.
I was drawn to the weather, the beautiful coast line and the unique artistic expression that makes our community so unique.
I am an accomplished dancer, teacher and choreographer who ran my own company, Rita Rivera & Dancers from 1983-1996.
I was aware of a strong need for an independent dance center in Santa Cruz and I founded the Santa Cruz Dance Gallery in 1993.
I ran our programs for seven years until I stepped down and handed the reins to the 418 Project (still going strong today).
I have been a guest artist at Cabrillo College, member of Theater Arts faculty at San Jose State University, at the University of California Santa Cruz and Sonoma State University.
My dance training in New York was greatly influenced by dancer and choreographer Erick Hawkins. Erick was the master of natural and fluid movement and was an important voice in the development of contemporary dance in our country.
My interest in the body/mind connection and experiential anatomy began in New York when I studied with Andre Bernard at New York University in the early 70’s. My interest flourished with continued studies with Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen, the acclaimed founder of the School of Body Mind Centering.
My desire to deepen into the field of movement awareness lead me to the Alexander Technique, with certification in 1993.
I have completed certification in "Healing the Light Body" through the Four Winds Society, founded by Alberto Villoldo, dedicated to preserving the Incan shamanic traditions by exploring the realms of the soul, of nature and ancient shamanic rites of passage. My investigation has taken me into the high Andean mountain passes and to the shores of Lake Titicaca visiting and sitting in ceremony at sacred sites and temples, including the mystical and magical Machu Picchu.
I have completed six levels of Visionary Cranio-Sacral training through the Milne Institute in Big Sur, California with Dr. Hugh Milne.
In 1996 I traveled with Luke Chan, who is a master Chi-Lel Qigong practitioner to Qinhuagdao, China. I have received first level certification in Chi-Lel Qigong through the "Medicineless Hospital" founded by Dr. Pang.
My studies continue with The Melt Method, utilizing balls and rollers to facilitate movement through the fascial system.
My lifelong curiosity and passion around healing led me to intensive study with Jerry Sargeant in the field of Quantum Healing. The term ‘quantum’ explores the relationship between energy, consciousness, and biology, through varying practices. Can we heal? What is the relationship of "mind" in healing?
Together, Elizabeth Borelli and I envision a unique space for the healing arts.
The goal of our classes, workshops and retreats use movement, meditative states and breath to develop awareness, facilitating transformation and integration in the Body Mind Spirit continuum.
Learn more about Rita’s work: