About Me

Hi, I’m Jae, an herbalist, nutrition & holistic health educator, crystal Reiki Practitioner, and certified, trauma informed yoga & yeditation teacher. My heart-centered approach to healing is rooted in the belief that healing yourself is an empowering experience. I want to help you take back control of your health and reconnect with your body & spirit so you can truly thrive.

My own journey has been anything but simple. I spent nearly two decades as an internationally-produced playwright and theater artist, pouring my energy into a demanding career—until burnout led me to re-evaluate everything. Realizing I’d neglected my own healing and self-care, I decided to make a change. I quit alcohol, immersed myself in herbalism, and dedicated myself to nutrition and healthy living.

Growing up in an abusive home and a survivor of trauma, I’ve learned firsthand how challenging the path to healing can be. Breaking free of my family of origin wasn’t easy, but it strengthened my resilience and deepened my commitment to supporting others on their healing paths. Even as a child, I found comfort and connection in meditation, crystals and nature. By the time I was ten years old, my deep compassion for animals and the planet inspired me to become a lifelong vegetarian, embracing a life rooted in kindness and compassion.

Travel has also been a powerful teacher. My spiritual journey has taken me across the globe—from the spiritual centers of China, Israel, and Tibet to the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest. One of my most transformative experiences was hiking the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail for six months. In the wilderness, I reconnected with my love for nature and unearthed a profound inner strength I didn’t know I possessed.

Upon returning to New York City, friends began calling me “Gaia”—a name that felt like a perfect reflection of my journey and passion for healing. In 2017, I founded Urban Gaia to help others heal and connect in the same way. I began by selling crystals, holding healing circles and teaching classes across New York City on crystal healing and herbalism. As a spiritual coach, I worked one-on-one with clients, guiding them through their own unique journeys. My work has evolved and expanded to include herbalism & nutrition - educating and helping people to feel empowered and whole.

Over the past decade, I have immersed myself in holistic healing, earning certifications in Nutrition & Healthy Living from Cornell University, studying Herbalism with Rosemary Gladstar, and completing an Herbal Crafting Apprenticeship with Brooklyn Herborium. I’m a certified mindfulness and trauma-informed yoga teacher (RYT-200 from YogaFarm Ithaca.) I’m also a certified Reiki 2 practitioner with additional training in Aromatherapy, Flower Essences, and Crystal Healing.

Urban Gaia began with a love of the earth and a belief in the power of self-healing. Whether you’re here to explore my handpicked crystals and sterling silver gemstone jewelry, or to discover trusted herbal and wellness resources, I hope this space offers you inspiration, connection, and a sense of calm on your journey.