“The profound need for connection with ourselves, each other, and nature inspired the creation of Pause + Purpose. By harnessing the power of community, we bring high-quality mindfulness practices to help you transform your mindset, achieve goals, and let go of what no longer serves you.”
- Emily Vartanian Tuttle, Founder
Our Story
After the birth of her first child, Emily, like so many navigating major life changes, longed for a safe space to process, heal, and grow without judgment. She invited a small group of friends and neighbors to gather regularly in her home, trusting in the power of shared experiences. Through heartfelt conversations, meditation, journaling, and somatic practices, the group fostered a deep sense of connection and belonging that transformed everyone involved.
Emily discovered a passion for bringing people together through mindfulness and self-expression. While yoga and wellness studios were plentiful, she envisioned something different: a space that blended evidence-based practices with meaningful group discussions, rooted in the ancient tradition of “gathering for truth,” a concept embodied in cultures worldwide and reflected in the Buddhist idea of Sangha. This vision became a reality in 2022 with the opening of our Westport studio, a welcoming space for meditation, journaling, somatic practices, and community circles designed to address trauma and promote healing, a sense of belonging, and joy.
Pause + Purpose is a science-backed, woman-owned mindfulness center dedicated to supporting healing, growth, and connection. Guided by advisors like Dr. Anna Yusim, a Yale-trained psychiatrist, and supported by practitioners such as Dr. Nancy Byrne and Dr. Tanvi Gandhi, who bring decades of experience in integrative healing, our team is deeply committed to helping people overcome the impacts of trauma and thrive. The results speak for themselves: 100% of regular members report greater clarity, purpose, happiness, and a sense of belonging and our inaugural Embodied Meditation Teacher Training Certification in 2024 sold out.
We’re proud to partner with the Westport Library for inspiring talks, including those led by our special friend and Westport native, Dr. Lisa Miller. Her work on the neuroscience of spirituality bridges science and soul, inspiring our programs and affirming our mission to address trauma with compassion and proven practices.
What started as a small gathering in Emily’s living room has grown into a vibrant, inclusive community built on connection, gratitude, and joy. Beyond our daily studio classes, Pause + Purpose offers corporate wellness programs, private sessions, meditation teacher training, and workshops focused on healing trauma and cultivating holistic well-being.
ABOUT EMILY
I'm Emily Vartanian-Tuttle, the creator of Pause + Purpose. My journey has taken me from Vermont to Philadelphia, Brooklyn, and London, ultimately leading me to Connecticut. Along the way, I've worn many hats: entrepreneur, MBA, graphic designer, singer/songwriter, and photographer.
With experience supporting non-profits in the mental health sector, I hold training in Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga, an evidence-based treatment for complex trauma and PTSD. In all my work, the common thread has been a desire for intimacy and vulnerability. I'm passionate about creating spaces where people can connect deeply, explore their true selves, and embrace the beauty of self-discovery.
I’m all about mixing mindfulness with a good dose of humor (because if you can’t laugh while meditating, are you even doing it right?). As a proud mom to my daughter Ayla, I’m constantly inspired by her curiosity, wonder, and playfulness. In my spare time, you'll find me singing my heart out, writing new songs, and getting beach sand all over the carpet.
The bottom line: I believe in the magic of community support and the courage it takes to step into the unknown as your authentic self. My mantra is “intention over convention,” and I strive to sprinkle joy and gratitude into every corner of my life.
Follow my journey on Instagram
Meet Our Studio Experience Guide
Morgan is a certified health coach and is here to help you make the most of your journey at Pause + Purpose. Whether you are already a member or new to the studio, she can help you find the classes and mentors that fit with your personality and goals.
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“It's normal to feel uncertain about where to start with so many unique classes at Pause + Purpose. Each class, even those with the same name, offers a different experience depending on the mentor guiding it. This allows for an authentic connection, so we encourage you to try a variety of classes to find what resonates most with your current needs—whether it's stress relief, movement, or deeper inner work. Stay open and curious; each class can help you discover what aligns best with you. If you need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out!”
Advisor
Dr. Anna Yusim is an internationally recognized, Board-Certified psychiatrist and executive coach, educated at Stanford and Yale, where she is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Yale Medical School. She is collaborating with Dr. Christopher Pittenger to create a groundbreaking Mental Health & Spirituality Program at Yale, bridging the Yale Medical School and Yale Divinity School. A best-selling author and accomplished speaker, Dr. Yusim brings her expertise in mental health, spirituality, and resilience to influential individuals worldwide while contributing to innovative mental health initiatives.