Born in Salvador, Bahia, Elka Haeckel built a life in San Diego centered on yoga, holistic health, and balance. With a philosophy rooted in mind-body-spirit connection, she promotes a lifestyle of awareness, flow, and well-being.
Elka Haeckel built her life in San Diego centered on yoga and holistic wellness.
A “baiana” from Salvador, Brazil, Elka Haeckel moved to San Diego, California, in 1999.
For many years, she was the owner of the Namaste Yoga Center, located in Ocean Beach, where she helped spread the practice of yoga and holistic wellness.
Yoga as Awareness and Self-Connection
Elka has been practicing yoga since 2001, and her journey led her to a deeper understanding of life:
“I developed the awareness that mind, body, and spirit are one.”
She emphasizes that ignoring emotional or mental imbalances can lead to physical consequences, reinforcing the importance of self-awareness and honesty.
Modern Life and the Need for Balance
According to Elka, many people today struggle with:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress
Often due to the lack of time for themselves outside work and daily responsibilities.
She notes a growing trend:
More people are turning to yoga as part of medical recommendations, recognizing its role in healing and therapy.
“It’s beautiful to see people becoming more open to holistic healing, which has existed for thousands of years.”
Diverse Training and Active Lifestyle
In addition to yoga, Elka maintains a dynamic routine that includes:
- Pilates
- Surfing (at least three times a week)
She values variety in training, which helps keep both body and mind engaged.
Nutrition as a Foundation of Health
Elka highlights that nutrition is essential to a healthy lifestyle.
Her approach includes:
- Prioritizing organic foods
- Choosing grass-fed, free-range, and organic meat when consuming animal products
This reflects her commitment to quality, balance, and conscious choices.
Philosophy of Happiness and Flow
For Elka, happiness goes beyond temporary feelings:
“Happiness is not just physiological—it is a spiritual state that lasts longer, regardless of circumstances.”
Her philosophy is inspired by the concept of living in the flow (Tao):
Instead of forcing outcomes, she believes in allowing life to unfold naturally.
Letting Go and Living in the Present
Elka shares a powerful message about emotional freedom:
“We often become slaves to our emotions without realizing it. Let go of what holds you back and be present.”
Her advice encourages:
- Letting go of attachments
- Awareness of emotional patterns
- Living fully in the present moment
Quick Facts About Elka Haeckel
- Origin: Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- Living in: San Diego, California (USA)
- Moved to U.S.: 1999
- Yoga Practice Since: 2001
- Former Business: Namaste Yoga Center (Ocean Beach)
- Other Activities: Pilates, Surfing
- Lifestyle Focus: Holistic health, organic nutrition
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Elka Haeckel?
She is a Brazilian yoga practitioner and former studio owner based in San Diego, focused on holistic health.
2. When did she start practicing yoga?
She began her yoga journey in 2001.
3. What is her approach to health?
She emphasizes the connection between mind, body, and spirit, along with nutrition and active living.
4. What other activities does she practice?
Pilates and surfing are part of her regular routine.
5. What is her life philosophy?
She believes in living in the flow, letting go of emotional burdens, and being present.
