Rebecca Cagle Wanee

Yoga made me feel better in every way—mind, body, soul, and spirit. That feeling is what kept drawing me to practice yoga and eventually drove me to want to learn the “how and why.” After overcoming self-defeating thoughts (“I’m not young enough, limber enough, strong enough, yogi enough,” etc.) regarding becoming an instructor, in October 2017, I attended a YogaFaith teacher training and received my 200-hour certification. Soon after that, I began teaching in-person classes in my rural community. At this same time, I retired from my private law practice due to health issues. This was a difficult time, and my yoga practice was instrumental in my healing journey. That journey led me to yoga therapy, where I have had the honor and privilege to learn the “how and why” yoga helped me heal, find my purpose, and be well--mind, body, heart, soul, and spirit. I am a candidate for a Master of Science Degree in Yoga Therapy at Maryland University of Integrative Health, and I will graduate in August 2024. Currently, I teach public group yoga classes in my community and a weekly private group class for women in a residential substance use disorder (SUD) recovery program. After I graduate and receive my certification as a yoga therapist, I want to share with others how yoga can help people find well-being in their lives regardless of their circumstances.