
Originally from Puerto Rico, Raquel Hernández-Cruz is one of the two senior lead teachers of YogaSlackers, a full-time nomad, and an internationally recognized instructor in yoga, acroyoga, slackline yoga, handstands, and kiteboarding. For over a decade, she has taught at festivals, retreats, and private events worldwide, helping students build strength, balance, and confidence through movement.
With extensive safety training and a compassionate, inclusive approach, she ensures a secure and supportive learning environment. Whether teaching on land, water, or in the air, Raquel prioritizes progression, injury prevention, and mindful movement, creating a space where students feel safe to explore and grow.
Raquel began her entire movement journey as an adult, proving that it’s never too late to start. Her one-minute handstands, waterline crossings, and triathlon victories are a testament to her training methods and dedication. She believes that with the right approach, patience, and practice, anyone can develop strength, balance, and confidence. Through thoughtful guidance and progressive teaching, she helps students break past limitations, and gain control over their breath, body and mind – making the impossible feel within reach.
Raquel is available worldwide for classes, workshops, and retreats. Contact her to bring the YogaSlackers experience to your community!
- She / Her / Ella
- Español & English
- Puerto Rico
- Full Time Nomad
- [email protected]
- +1 (787) 704-9613
Featured Videos
Education
General Education
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MS Marine Biology
2006 NSU Oceanographic Center, Dania Beach, FL
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BS Coastal Marine Biology
2003 University of Puerto Rico in Humacao, Puerto Rico
Yoga & Movement Arts
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Slackline Yoga, AcroYoga & Slackro Teacher
2012 YogaSlackers, Virginia, USA
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AcroYoga Teacher
2012 AcroYoga International, Guadalajara, México
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200 hrs Ashtanga Yoga Teacher
2009 Ashtanga Yoga Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico
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500 HRS Akhanda Yoga Teacher
2008 Akhanda Yoga Institute, Tapovan, India
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200 HRS Traditional Hatha Yoga Teacher
2006 Akhanda Yoga Institute/World Conscious Yoga Family Yoga Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh, India
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YogaEd K-8 And Tools For Teacher's
2007 YogaEd, Soaring Eagle Yoga, Miami, Florida
Healing Arts
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Pranic Healing, Institute For Inner Studies
Puerto Rico & New York1998 - 2005: Basic Pranic Healing, Advanced Pranic Healing, Psychotherapy, Crystal Healing, Pranic Feng Shui, Arhatic Preparatory Level, Higher Clairvoyance, Kriyashakti and Soul Meditation.
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Reiki Master & Magnified Healing
2009 San Juan, PR
Inclusion, Communication & Consent
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Peer Space Holder
2021 Justice Movement, Online
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Aiming for Allyship
2023, 2020 Justice Movement, Online
Safety & First Aid
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American Red Cross Lifeguarding
(Including Deep Water) with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid and Waterfront Skills
2025
Exp. 3/2027 -
Wilderness First Responder
2016 - 2019
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YMCA Lifeguard
2003, San Juan, PR
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Emergency First Response – CPR/AED/First Aid
1997 - Present HSI Adult First Aid | CPR AED Adult
Exp. 5/2026 -
DAN Oxygen & First Aid For Scuba Diving Injuries
1997 - 2009
Other Certifications
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IKO Assistant Trainer
2024 LEK Laurel Eastman Kiteboarding
Cabarete, Dominican Republic -
AAUS Scientific Diver
2003
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Basic Boating Safety Course
2002, Natural Resource Department, PR
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Dive Supervisor
2003 PDIC Dive Supervisor
1998 PADI Advanced Open Water Diver
1998 SSI Search and Rescue Diver
1997 PADI Open Water Diver
San Juan, Puerto Rico
FUTURE EVENTS
April 20, 2025
Handstands and Kiteboarding Private Retreats in Puerto Rico
Are you seeking a unique and flexible yoga and adventure retreat in Puerto Rico? Look no further! Our Create Your Own Adventure Homestay Retreat offers you the opportunity to customize your experience with a variety of activities such as climbing, kiteboarding, yoga, handstands, and more. Tailor your itinerary to match your interests and skill level for a retreat that's uniquely designed for you. Book now and embark on an unforgettable adventure! ...
April 12, 2025
12 Days of Handstands – Online Training Program
Join us each and every month for 12 days of handstand training. ...
May 12, 2025
12 Days of Handstands – Online Training Program
Join us each and every month for 12 days of handstand training. ...
June 15, 2025
Berkshire Yoga Festival
The Berkshire Yoga Festival is a 4-day event featuring over 100 offerings including yoga, meditation, music, hiking, art installations, YES talks, social gatherings, a vendor village and more. World-renowned teachers, artists, and scholars lead classes at the breathtaking campus on Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort. ...
January 3, 2026
New Years Climbing and Surfing Retreat in Puerto Rico
Your choice of 4 to 7 Days of Climbing, Yoga, AcroYoga, Slackline, Handstand, and Surfing in Puerto Rico. An all Level event hosted in collaboration with professional climber Heidi Wirtz from Earth Play Retreats. ...
January 17, 2026
Climbing Retreat in Cuba!
Join in Cuba for an amazing climbing retreat. This event will include sightseeing, yoga, acro, slacklining, handstands and much more. ...
Handstands and Kiteboarding Private Retreats in Puerto Rico
12 Days of Handstands – Online Training Program
12 Days of Handstands – Online Training Program
Berkshire Yoga Festival
New Years Climbing and Surfing Retreat in Puerto Rico
Climbing Retreat in Cuba!
BLOGS

Safety Mindset: Adventure, Risk Management, and Smart Decision-Making
Learn how top adventure athletes manage risk and stay safe while pushing their limits. Discover essential safety skills, training tips, and best practices for any outdoor activity—so you can take on new challenges and always come home with great stories to tell.

The Ultimate Sport Climbing Packing List: Essentials for Every Climber
Gear up for your next climbing adventure with our detailed Sport Climbing Packing List! From harnesses and quickdraws to belay devices and climbing shoes, we cover everything you need for a safe and successful climb. Whether you’re heading to your local crag or planning a multi-day climbing trip, our expert checklist ensures you won’t forget a thing.

Kiteboarding in Puerto Rico: Las Picuas
If you’re looking for a hidden kiteboarding gem in Puerto Rico, Las Picuas should be on your radar. This spot offers shallow, flat waters and access to waves, making it an excellent location for beginners and seasoned riders alike.

A First Aid Kit Suitable for Adventure: What to Pack & Why
Looking for the perfect first aid kit for your outdoor adventures? This compact yet effective packing list covers everything you need for hiking, camping, climbing, and traveling.
PAST EVENTS
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YogaSlackers Teacher Training
2014 - Present, Lead Teacher
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Wanderlust Festival: Slackline Yoga, Slackro And Conditioning
2019 - 2013: O'ahu, WV, VT, CO, CA, Mnt Tremblant CAN, Whistler, CAN
2017: Sunshine Coast (AU) & Lake Taupo (NZ)
2016: Lake Taupo (NZ) & Thredbo (AU) -
Breckenridge Yoga Festival
2019: Slackline Yoga, AcroYoga, Slackro and Handstands
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Bangkok Acro Convention
201-2016: AcroYoga & Slackro
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Israeli Acro Convention
2019 & 2023: Slackro
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Divine Play
2018 - 2013: Slackro and Handstands
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Red Rocks Rendezvous
2018 - 2013: Slackline Yoga & AcroYoga
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AcroLove Festival
2019-2018: AcroYoga & Slackro
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Mammoth Yoga Festival
2018 & 2017: Slackline Yoga, AcroYoga, Slackro and Handstands
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Dutch Acro Convention
2017 & 2016: Slackline Yoga, AcroYoga & Slackro
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Yoga Journal Life!
2015 - 2013: Slackline Yoga, Slackro and Conditioning
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Nantucket Yoga Festival
2016 & 2015: Slackline Yoga, AcroYoga & Slackro