Hi! I’m Rebekah Charlton, founder and owner of Halcyon Wellness in Dannevirke, Tararua, NZ.

Halcyon Wellness is much more than just a yoga studio. It is a dedicated space that supports the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of wellbeing and the whole self. From the beginning, my vision has been to create an environment where everyone feels welcome exploring movement, regardless of their age, experience, or fitness level.

Halcyon Wellness opened in 2022, but my journey in group fitness began when I was just 15 years old, and I've been involved in the industry ever since. Early in my teaching career, I realised I was more passionate about supporting special populations than working in a traditional gym environment. Because of that decision, I spent many years working with older adults and individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

With over 25 years of experience teaching group fitness across New Zealand, I bring a diverse range of skills and experience to Halcyon Wellness. My background includes Les Mills Step, Body Balance and Pump, Zumba and Zumba Strong, Tai Chi for Health, Strength & Balance for Older Adults, Circuit Training, Aqua Fitness, Vinyasa and Hatha Yoga, and Trauma-Informed Yin Yoga.

On a personal level, yoga became part of my own healing journey in my mid-20s and has remained an important part of my life ever since. Years of learning and self-inquiry have deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection, energy flow and stagnation, physical alignment and balance, and most importantly, the power of introspection. 

That understanding now forms a big part of what I teach and encourage through all of my services and classes. Introspection is a powerful tool for self-awareness, personal growth, and understanding our behaviours, patterns, and motivations. We can work on a goal or with the physical body, but unless we identify and challenge the limiting beliefs, incongruent choices and habits, or past experiences that may be holding us back, lasting change can be difficult to sustain.

This process happens best when we leave our ego at the door, feel safe enough to be ourselves, and know we are genuinely supported and accepted. I work hard to ensure Halcyon Wellness provides exactly that — not only as a wellness space, but as a welcoming community of like-minded people who simply want to feel good within themselves and their bodies.

If you're looking for a local wellness studio where you'll be known by name, supported without judgement, and encouraged to move at your own pace, I'd love to welcome you to Halcyon Wellness Dannevirke.