The Veena Family 

I’m originally from Poland and have been living in the UK since 2003. My teaching journey began in the Himalayas in 2019, where I trained as a Sivananda yoga teacher. Since then, I’ve followed my heart into many beautiful practices — Pregnancy Yoga, Hypnobirthing, Cacao Ceremony Facilitation, Face Yoga, and Yoga Nidra.

I love creating spaces that feel safe, nurturing, and uplifting — from Full Moon Yoga & Cacao Ceremonies to retreats and classes that support people through every season of life. With Veena & The Moon, my dream is to offer a home for connection, ritual, and wellbeing here in Bexhill.

Born in Chile, Yuri Betancourt discovered his deep connection with music at the age of 11, when he first picked up an instrument. Since then, his life has been dedicated to sound, rhythm, and the soulful expression of South American traditions. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, Yuri plays a wide range of string instruments, including the charango, bass guitar, acoustic and electric guitars, alongside traditional flutes such as the quena and moseño. His playing carries the spirit of his homeland, blending ancestral sounds with contemporary creativity.

In 1999, Yuri moved to the UK, where he immersed himself in London’s vibrant underground scene. For over two decades, he collaborated on countless projects, from experimental ensembles to world music collectives, constantly exploring the intersections of culture and sound. His performances are known for their raw passion, authenticity, and ability to transport listeners into different musical landscapes.

In 2021, Yuri relocated to Bexhill-on-Sea, where he began weaving himself into the South Coast’s creative community. Alongside Karolina, he co-founded Veena and the Moon, a wellness and creative space dedicated to music, yoga, and holistic practices. Here, Yuri shares not only his extraordinary musical talents but also his knowledge of South American culture, introducing local audiences to unique instruments and traditions that carry stories of the Andes, the Amazon, and beyond.

What makes Yuri truly remarkable is his intuitive musicianship—he plays not only with technical mastery but also with deep emotional resonance. His music has the power to heal, inspire, and connect people across cultures. Whether through intimate performances, workshops, or collaborative projects, Yuri continues to enrich every space he enters with the magic of his sound.

Originally from Leicestershire, Rachael moved to the South Coast in 2021. She has been practising yoga for over 20 years, completing her 200-hour teacher training in 2018, followed by certificates in Pregnancy, Post-Natal, Mum and Baby and Children’s. 

 

All abilities are very welcome in Rachael’s classes, especially newcomers to yoga. She wants to get people moving, to make time for themselves, and to learn to take a deep breath and step back from the day-to-day routine of everyday life.

Rachael believes that regular exercise and creating space both physically and mentally is key to keeping a positive outlook on life. Let’s not take this too seriously! Having her own invisible illness, she understands that everyone has their personal struggles and their own reason for trying yoga.

She welcomes anyone to give it a go and is happy to chat about individual needs or provide suggestions  for modifications – even if your first class is spent lying on your mat!