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

Marney, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

I was 26 years old moved back to Arizona to be close to my parents and family because my mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and knew it was important to have this intentional time with her and also my niece that was going to be two. It was a whirlwind to witness my mother losing herself right before my eyes- I buried myself in all of the things I thought could just numb the pain- I woke up one day and chose that self destruction was no longer an option and booked a membership at a local yoga studio and took a “master yoga class” and the teacher implemented a practiced called kriya yoga – from the tantric traditions – kriya is action, to expand and transform and increase your capacity and awareness- my heart cracked open and from the moment forward, my path began to unfold – ff to today- living out my dream holding and creating containers for people for people to experience these tools and practices that have transformed my life

Marney, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Marney Henze, a wellness facilitator, guide, and space-holder devoted to helping others reconnect with themselves through the practices that transformed my own life.

I found this path in my early twenties, during one of the most difficult seasons of my life. My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and I didn’t know how to cope. I was lost, doing all the wrong things to try to feel better. One day, I woke up and just knew something had to change. I signed up for a yoga class, not knowing it would completely alter the trajectory of my life.

That first class introduced me to kriya; a practice that uses movement, mantra, and breath to expand energy. It cracked my heart open. From that moment on, I was hooked.

At the time, I was working in corporate retail and thought I’d climb the ladder, but deep down, I was craving more meaning and connection. I dove headfirst into daily yoga practice, completed my 200-hour training, and began studying in Bali, India, Costa Rica, and Sedona. Eventually, I started teaching; at Lifetime, local studios, and then online during the pandemic. I completed my 300 yoga teaching training in 2021, & from there have many other certifications under my belt.

Each step opened new doors. I launched a jewelry line making malas and intention-infused pieces that carried my practice into everyday life. And then I landed at CIVANA, a beautiful wellness resort and spa in Carefree, Arizona, where I’ve had the opportunity to teach and hold space for people from around the world.

Today, I offer a wide range of experiences; from vinyasa, yin, restorative, yoga nidra, and kriya to meditation, journaling, sound baths, and breath work. Whether it’s a private session, group class, retreat, or corporate workshop, my work is centered around helping people return to themselves; to regulate their nervous system, reconnect to their own inner guidance, and create more spaciousness and ease in their lives.

What sets me apart is the way I blend these ancient practices with modern, relatable guidance. My approach is warm, grounded, and deeply intuitive. I don’t just teach movement, I teach presence, embodiment, and real-life tools that help people feel more alive and aligned long after they leave the mat.

I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve built a life rooted in service and creativity. That I get to wake up every day and share the practices that changed my life; and watch them do the same for others.

For anyone new to me or my work, I want you to know this: you don’t have to do it all perfectly. You just have to show up. The path to clarity, healing, and embodiment is already inside you, sometimes you just need a guide to help you remember.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I think what really helped me build my reputation is consistently showing up; with care, presence, and a genuine desire to hold space for others. I’ve always led from the heart, and I think people can feel that. I don’t try to be intimidating or unreachable; I aim to be grounded, approachable, and real.

I immersed myself in the wellness community here in Phoenix by saying yes to opportunities, teaching at events all across the Valley, and putting myself out there even when it felt scary or new. That willingness to show up, to keep learning, and to share from an authentic place is what’s helped me grow strong relationships and trust with students, clients, and peers alike.

At the end of the day, I believe people are drawn to spaces where they feel seen & safe to be themselves, and I do my best to offer that, whether it’s in a class, a sound bath, a retreat, or a one-on-one session.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was thinking I could take everyone with me on this path.

When I first started my journey into wellness, yoga, and self-discovery, I wanted all my friends, colleagues, and loved ones to come along with me. I wanted them to experience the same breakthroughs, clarity, and connection that I was feeling. But over time, I realized; you can’t force someone to grow, heal, or see things differently if they’re not ready or interested. Everyone is on their own timeline and path, and sometimes it’s just not part of their journey in this lifetime.

That was hard for me at first; especially when I felt like I had found something so meaningful. But what I’ve come to understand is that the most powerful thing I can do is simply live the work. Be the example. Share from a place of love and integrity. And if someone feels inspired or curious, they’ll come when it’s right for them.

That shift has brought so much more peace and freedom in my work and in my relationships.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @marney.henze
• Linkedin: Marney Henze

Image Credits

Taryn Kira

Peter Speyer