We were lucky to catch up with Shana Bell recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Shana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.
I spent 14 years as a university lecturer, where teaching was a core passion of mine. My journey into yoga began 25 years ago, following a long practice of tai chi. Initially, yoga was a personal endeavor for internal growth; I never intended to teach or engage in healing work.
However, in 2014, everything changed. I developed an excruciating wrist problem that prevented me from practicing yoga and skydiving—two activities that defined me. This physical limitation forced me to confront a deeper question: “Who am I without these abilities?” It was a challenging time, as I grappled with my identity beyond physical capabilities. I began exploring meditation and energy work, diving deeper into my inner self.
Through these practices and various Thai massage techniques, I eventually healed my wrist. This experience illuminated the profound connection between our physical and inner selves, guiding me to a deeper understanding of the mind through yoga. I pursued further training, living in an ashram in Chiang Mai for my 200-hour teacher training and later studying in India for an additional 100 hours.
This journey led me to open my own yoga studio in Sedona, where I continue to explore and share the transformative power of yoga. This defining moment not only changed the trajectory of my career but also deepened my understanding of myself and the world around me.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My journey into yoga began at a Vietnamese Zen Buddhist Temple, where I was invited to teach yoga during daylong retreats. This initial experience evolved into weekly classes for temple attendees, blending yoga and meditation. My passion for teaching extended beyond the mat, inspiring me to help others heal through the practice.
I began working with an organization focused on recovery and reentry for individuals dealing with addiction, imprisonment, mental illness, and abuse. Through yoga and breathwork, I guided them in overcoming trauma and anxiety.
I taught refugees resettlement skills and used various yoga techniques to help them adjust to their new community. Often, they carried trauma, but through yoga and breathing exercises, we worked on healing and finding peace.
My work expanded to include breathwork and sound healing, exploring the power of sound vibrations in healing the body. Eventually, I decided to retire from teaching refugees and moved from Phoenix to Sedona, a place filled with daily practitioners and a supportive community. Here, my goal is to create a healing space where people can come together to explore their inner selves and heal their minds through breath, yoga, and sound vibration.
What sets my work apart is my holistic approach to healing, integrating yoga with meditation, breathwork, and sound healing. I’m most proud of the transformations I’ve witnessed in those I’ve taught, seeing them find peace and strength through these practices. I want potential clients and followers to know that my work is about more than just physical exercise; it’s a journey towards inner healing and self-discovery.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Here’s the revised version:
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I wouldn’t change a thing. While I sometimes wish I had started yoga at a younger age, I believe that our life paths unfold as they should. Each experience, whether in a profession, a place of residence, or a relationship, serves as a step that guides us to the next. Everything builds upon the other, and our higher selves guide us on our journeys. I honor and accept all the professions and experiences I’ve had, as they have led me to where I am today.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
While training and knowledge are undoubtedly important, there’s no greater teacher than life experiences. Success in my field isn’t measured by the number of years in college, the number of yoga classes I’ve taught, or the amount of training I’ve completed. True success encompasses having a healthy mindset, a healthy body, a sense of community, peace, contentment, and the joy of doing what I love.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Takunspace
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shana-bell-15848224?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Other: Beshana32@gmail.com
