Learn to Live Vibrantly with Dr Charlotte Hay

My Story

Having originally trained as an actor (which, looking back, provided me with a great foundation in breathwork and bodily awareness), I left this careerpath in order to pursue my passion for sustainability and the environment, which led me to do a Masters in Environmental Governance in Amsterdam, and eventually to a PhD in 'Green Politics' in England, in 2012. While studying for the PhD, I began to develop an interest in holistic health and wellbeing, sparked by a desire to better educate myself in plant-based nutrition (having already been vegan for many years). I then became interested in natural DIY skincare (having just developed psoriasis, alongside my lifelong struggle with acne) and essential oils, whilst at the same time diving deeper into, what I call, the 3 juicy M’s: meditation, mindfulness and movement! 
As I began to get more and more disillusioned with my subject area (and academia), and more and more interested in health and nutrition, the stress of the doctorate plus a difficult personal relationship led me to a crisis point in my life. Having been interested in Eastern philosophy (particularly Buddhism) from my early teens, I began a regular meditation practice (which I continue to this day), as well as ‘officially’ beginning a regular yoga practice (having tried yoga on-and-off since my late teens, but never committing to it before then). Both of which, along with my now-favourite discovery – green smoothies – truly saved my life, giving me the energy and motivation to get out of bed each day (which, if you've ever struggled with depression, you'll know can be the biggest challenge). I knew then that my true calling was to share this knowledge and power with others, helping them become the best, most vibrant version of themselves (whilst at the same time saving the planet!), by making sustainable and compassionate lifestyle changes. 
On finishing the PhD I decided to begin my wellness journey by moving to Bali to complete a yoga teacher training with All Yoga. I then spent the next year-and-a-half travelling the world teaching yoga in some truly spectacular places, as well as gaining further yoga teaching certifications. On returning to my native Scotland in 2019, I completed a diploma in Thai Yoga Massage, before finally undertaking the Health Coaching certification with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (a goal of mine since the start of my wellness journey). In 2021 I also completed a Women’s Life Coaching training, and a Doula training.