Sophia Vanderheym

How would you describe your teaching style?

My classes are a mix of mindful flow and playful exploration. I love creating a space that feels both physically grounding and mentally uplifting. You can expect thoughtful, intentional sequencing that honors the breath, paired with a lighthearted energy that encourages you to explore your edges without judgment. I design my classes to be an introspective journey—a time for you to drop out of your head, get into your body, and leave the mat feeling completely reconnected.

Was there a moment when you knew that teaching yoga was for you?

It was definitely a gradual realization, but I had a moment of total clarity the first time I watched a room sink into Savasana. Seeing everyone so vulnerable, still, and completely present was incredibly powerful. I realized that my favorite part of teaching isn't leading the physical movement—it’s getting to protect and curate that safe space for people to just be with themselves.

What is your favorite class to teach at HAUM, and why?

I love the 7:15 AM Monday Vinyasa Flow. It’s a really special time to practice because the energy is all about intention. Whether you need to shake off a chaotic weekend or just wake up your body, it acts as a total reset button. I love helping students ground themselves and find that deep internal connection before the rest of the week takes over.

What is your favorite class to take at HAUM?

It’s hard to pick just one! I adore Jacqui’s 6:15 PM Vinyasa Flow for a great, sweaty practice, but I also get so much out of the Sunday night Restore and Soundbath. It feels like pure magic, and the perfect, low-key way to ground down and decompress before the week starts.

Is there a moment from teaching at HAUM Studios that has stayed with you?

For me, it’s the everyday connections. Whether I’m chatting with a student before class or catching up with the staff, I always leave blown away by the people here. HAUM has this effortless culture of kindness and inclusivity that you can actually feel in the air. That collective warmth stays with me long after I leave the studio.

What can students expect when they walk into one of your classes?

Expect a space where you can be intentional, playful, and completely yourself. My classes focus on mindful alignment and smooth transitions, but they’re also designed to challenge you and spark your curiosity. Ultimately, I want you to leave feeling vibrant, empowered in your own body, and more connected to what you need in the present moment.

Sophia is a Bay Area native who is grateful to call San Francisco home. A lifelong mover, she grew up immersed in ballet before discovering yoga in 2010 to balance both body and mind. What began as cross-training quickly evolved into a deep passion for the practice's ability to harmonize movement, breath, and spirit. Since earning her 200 hour RYT certification in 2018, Sophia has loved guiding others on the mat. Her classes are intentional, playful, and introspective, blending mindful flow with lighthearted exploration: thoughtful sequencing that honors the breath, paired with an energy that encourages students to explore their edges without judgment. She designs each class as an introspective journey, a chance to drop out of your head, get into your body, and leave the mat feeling completely reconnected. Beyond the studio, you can find her backpacking, biking, or seeking out the city's best bites.

Certifications

200hr RYT