We recently connected with Dionna Mcdowell and have shared our conversation below.

Dionna, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

The biggest risk I’ve ever taken was deciding to take astrology seriously and share it with others through teaching how to use the New and Full Moon cycles to live a more authentic life.

I grew up in a Christian household, where astrology was barely acknowledged. My only exposure was discovering I was a Capricorn, but I never thought much of it. After my second divorce and rounds of therapy, I found myself feeling like something was still missing. That’s when I got a Natal Chart reading—and it changed everything. For the first time in my life, I felt deeply seen. It was like someone handed me a mirror and said, “This is who you truly are.”

That reading sparked a passion. I dove headfirst into understanding my chart, researching the lunar cycles, and exploring how to use the Moon’s phases to manifest intentions and release old patterns. What I found was transformative—it started working for me. I noticed shifts in my mindset, emotions, and life direction.

Being the teacher I’ve always been at heart, I wanted to share this magic with others. That’s when the risk came in. I decided to start hosting New and Full Moon Circles out of my tiny apartment in Inglewood, California. It was intimidating at first. Would anyone come? Would they even resonate with this? Despite my fears, I persisted. The first circles were small—under a handful of attendees—but the energy and connection were powerful.

Over time, the circles grew. What began as a few people sitting on cushions in my living room has blossomed into gatherings in yoga studios. And now, I’m preparing for my biggest venture yet: hosting a yoga retreat in July 2025, centered around the Leo New Moon.

Taking this risk taught me to trust myself and my passions, even when the path feels uncertain. It’s a gift to hold space for others, helping them tap into the Moon’s energy to create more aligned, meaningful lives. Looking back, I’m so grateful I listened to that spark of curiosity—it’s transformed not only my life but the lives of those I’ve had the honor to guide.

Dionna, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Dionna McDowell, a certified yoga instructor, intuitive astrologer, tarot reader, and sound practitioner. My journey into this work wasn’t linear—in fact, it was born out of some of my most challenging moments. I’ve always had a deep desire to help others, but it wasn’t until my 40s, after raising my children, navigating two divorces, and experiencing burnout from my full-time job, that I realized I needed a radical shift.

Astrology came first. A Natal Chart reading opened my eyes to parts of myself I had overlooked, and I dove deeply into studying astrology and the lunar cycles. Then, on my 40th birthday, I took my very first yoga class. My body was burnt out from years of bodybuilding, and I needed a different kind of care. That class changed everything—I fell in love with the practice and decided to deepen my journey by enrolling in yoga teacher training.

Today, I guide individuals in finding alignment and peace through restorative yoga, sound meditations, astrology, and tarot. I create spaces—whether through private sessions, workshops, or moon circles—where people can pause, reflect, and reconnect with themselves. My offerings include restorative yoga classes, personalized astrology and tarot readings, sound baths, and transformative retreats.

What sets me apart is my ability to make these practices accessible and relatable, especially for women of color who often face unique challenges in prioritizing rest and healing. My goal is to show them that these tools aren’t just luxuries—they’re necessities for a balanced life.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the community I’ve built. My moon circles started in my apartment with just a few people, and they’ve grown into larger gatherings in yoga studios and beyond. In July 2025, I’ll host my first international yoga retreat in Ireland, a place that has brought me immense healing and joy.

Ultimately, my work is about creating healing spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether through a yoga class, a moon circle, or a one-on-one session, I want people to walk away feeling empowered to live their most authentic lives.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

Other than training and knowledge, I believe the ability to connect with people from all backgrounds is essential for succeeding in my field. My experience as a special education teacher has been invaluable in helping me adapt to the unique needs of yoga clients and deliver information in a way that’s accessible, relatable, and easy to understand. Creating that connection and meeting people where they are makes the practice more meaningful and transformative for everyone.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Word of mouth has been a huge factor in building my reputation. When a client recommends my yoga classes, moon circles, or astrology and tarot readings, it means so much because it reflects the impact of my work. I also pride myself on having a strong work ethic and showing up fully for each client and event, which I believe people notice and appreciate. That combination of personal referrals and dedication has been key to my growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://intuitivelyd.com
• Instagram: @intuitivleyd
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@intuitivelyd5157
• Other: Irish Yoga Retreat: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGR5nC8FfI/qx943segwiHQVk2qKhwBMA/edit