Claire Robbie

About Claire Robbie

Claire Robbie is a keynote speaker, corporate workshop facilitator, MC, partnerships and media commentator, brand ambassador, meditation teacher, and yogi. She is a former journalist and newsreader, and the Founder of New Zealand's first multidisciplinary meditation centre, The School of Modern Meditation (SOMM). Claire has combined her passions into a varied career, which she has evolved around being a present mother and partner.

Background & Approach

Claire's love of language, people, and human connection led her from journalism to helping people incorporate breathwork and meditation into their lives through SOMM. Sobriety is a central pillar of her life and practice; she facilitates The Alcohol Reset program and has worked with hundreds of people to help them change their relationship with drinking.

Over the past 15 years, Claire has trained and continues to study with leading teachers in various styles, philosophies, and types of meditation and yoga. Her personal experiences form the foundation of her teaching. She serves as the meditation coach for several of New Zealand's leading businesspeople and entrepreneurs and is passionate about making meditation an integral and normal part of the community.

Claire currently navigates the dual roles of stay-at-home mum and business owner, which she describes as her most challenging combination yet. She also travels internationally to teach meditation and speak on topics including consciousness, shifting habits, alcohol education, and the mind.

The School of Modern Meditation (SOMM)

Claire opened SOMM one week before New Zealand's last and longest lockdown, transitioning the school online during that period. The digital classroom now hosts students from around the world.

SOMM offers classes, courses, and workshops in breathwork, meditation, soundwork, EFT, and more, available both in-studio (Central Auckland) and online. Programmes cater to both experienced practitioners and complete beginners, with a strong emphasis on community. Thousands of people have experienced the school's classes and the mental, emotional, and physical transformations they support.

NBWC (Not Boring Wine Club)

Claire started NBWC in January 2017 as a personal accountability project when she gave up drinking for the year. The initiative grew into a community with a website, regular monthly events, and a movement aimed at normalising sober socialising, providing events and support for those who wish to socialise without alcohol. SOMM studio now hosts all NBWC events.

Personal Advice

Claire recommends starting with at least 5 minutes a day to relax and be present, noting that a few deep breaths can work wonders. She also advises moving the body regularly, cutting back on alcohol and caffeine consumption, and finding a relaxing activity to enjoy on a regular basis.