We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shannon Yeager. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shannon below.

Shannon, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you share a story that illustrates an important or relevant lesson you learned in school

I was taught from a young age the importance of giving every task my best effort. While this allowed me to take pride in each assignment and excel in academics, it also created pressure and stress from striving for perfection.

This pattern continued until one day in college, I woke up with a tingly sensation in my hands. I consulted my doctor who shared that I was hyperventilating due to stress. It was the first time I realized how stress can manifest as physical symptoms in the body. I started going to yoga a few times a week and learning techniques to deepen my breath. Eventually the tingly sensation subsided and I started to feel the weight of anxiety lift.

From this moment onward, I knew I wanted to share these healing techniques with others. I obtained my yoga certification (RYT-500) and started leading weekly classes in gyms, studios, corporate facilities and community centers.

As a wellness coach, I believe it is important to continue exploring new healing tools so that I can show up as a better coach for my clients. Throughout the years, I have received certifications in coaching, sound healing and Reiki to create a more holistic approach to healing. The practices I use to guide others are the same tools that have helped me breathe deeper, feel calmer and align with my purpose.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

With long to-do lists and endless notifications, it can be hard to “turn off” at the end of the day, leaving the nervous system overstimulated. Over time, this can lead to “dis-ease” in the body, from the hyperventilation I experienced in college to insomnia to disrupted digestion and more.

When we learn to regulate the nervous system, we can react more calmly to the stresses of everyday life. We can be more patient with our children, partners and pets. We can think clearly, tune into our intuition, and make decisions that align with the life we want to live.

This is why I start every session with a tool to balance the nervous system, such as breath work, meditation, sound healing or Reiki. From this place of calm, I help people reflect, connect to their purpose and figure out what comes next.

Every session is unique because every journey is unique. I have helped executives learn tools to manage stress, new moms reconnect to their passions, coaches find their dream clients, and healers expand their businesses. I will hold space for you with curiosity and cheer you on every step of the way.

Sessions are available virtually or in person (if you are located in San Diego) and can be booked using the contact form on my website. I would be honored to support you on your healing journey.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Reflecting on my journey over the past 10 years, I wouldn’t be where I am today without continued education, a willingness to authentically share my story, and the relationships I have built with my community.

Training programs typically include a code of ethics, safety standards, hands-on experience and mentorship. This combination allows me to move confidently as a wellness coach and prioritize the safety of those I work with. The structure gives me a foundation that I can build upon and refine. The programs have also allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of the lineage and history of each practice.

Along with reading textbooks and studying, much of my experience comes from my own wellness journey. I have felt burned out from pushing myself too hard and trying to balance too much (and some days this is still a work in progress for me). I have been anxious and overwhelmed during the sleepless nights caring for a newborn. I have felt lost and unsure about what comes next in my career. While vulnerability can feel scary at times, I believe sharing my story — even the parts that are hard or uncomfortable — is important to let people know they are not alone and that there is always a path forward.

Showing up authentically has helped me build a strong community. It has allowed me to continue working with clients throughout multiple life stages, fill events to capacity and meet inspiring humans through word of mouth and referrals.

I am grateful for every conversation and opportunity that allows me to help people and spend each day doing the work that I am deeply passionate about.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

For many years, I worked in the corporate world while also hosting healing events and leading wellness classes for the community. After my daughter was born, I realized I was spreading myself too thin and I needed to be more discerning with my time.

I wanted to be fully present as a mother with flexibility in my schedule to go to doctors appointments, celebrate milestones and savor the tender moments. I also wanted to pursue a fulfilling career that would provide abundance. I didn’t know what this would look like, which felt unsettling and overwhelming. So I started by calming my nervous system with deep breathing and meditation. Eventually, I was able to quiet the noise around me and envision new possibilities. I realized I could help others regulate their nervous systems and rediscover what lights them up. This was how Expand Beyond was born.

Being a new mom myself, I started working with moms to help them take time for themselves and practice self-care. Then I expanded to working with entrepreneurs, executives, coaches and more.

As a business owner and parent, I have realized that being flexible is the best way to move forward. I am embracing change, learning and growing — and I hope to help others do the same.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://expandbeyondcoaching.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkyeager/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannonkyeageryoga/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-yeager-59564045/
• Twitter: https://x.com/shannonkyeager
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShannonKYeagerYoga
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shannonkyeager

Image Credits

Black Rider Studios
Laura Costa Photography
Shannon K. Yeager