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My Story

About EquaTerra

EquaTerra means “balanced earth,” a reflection of my belief that true healing comes from aligning mind, body, and spirit in harmony with everyday life.

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My wellness journey began when I transitioned out of a marketing communications career to reconnect with my original calling—mentoring, teaching, and helping others thrive. At the same time, I was navigating chronic pain, joint issues, stress, and insomnia. These experiences profoundly shaped my understanding of what it means to struggle, heal, and self-advocate.

 

Working with professionals in functional medicine and holistic health became a turning point. I discovered practices that transformed my well-being and inspired me to dedicate myself to this work. Since 2012, I’ve been a 200-hour certified Yoga Instructor, with additional training in adaptive movement, meditation, and trauma-informed coaching. My background in adult learning and program design further strengthens the way I support groups and individuals.

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Today, I bring together lived experience, specialized training, and a deeply compassionate approach to guide organizations, groups, and individuals who are navigating physical, emotional, or mental challenges. I also partner with workplaces looking to cultivate resilience, connection, and well-being. While I am based in Greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio, I can work with you or your team locally or virtually, across the US.

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Who I Support

I support individuals and groups navigating a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental health needs.

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  • Addiction

  • Anxiety

  • Arthritis

  • Chronic pain

  • Eating disorders

  • Grief and loss

  • Ischemic & hemorrhagic stroke

  • Life transitions

  • Long COVID / CFS

  • Mobility limitations

  • Mood disorders

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Sciatica

  • Trauma / PTSD

  • Work-life balance challenges

About Shirley Image. Shirley hiking in the mountains.
Values

Values

My work is grounded in compassion, accessibility, and balance. These values guide every session, class, and program I offer.

Compassion

Healing begins with empathy and presence. I create supportive, trauma-informed spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and encouraged to move at their own pace.


Through mindfulness, clients learn to meet difficult emotions with kindness rather than self-judgment.

Accessibility

Wellness should be available to everyone. I adapt mindfulness, movement, and coaching practices to meet each person’s unique abilities, health needs, and life circumstances.
Whether working with individuals or groups, I ensure each session is inclusive and supportive.

balance

True well-being comes from aligning mind, body, and spirit. I guide clients toward sustainable practices that cultivate calm, clarity, and resilience in everyday life.


With even a small sense of groundedness, it becomes easier to face challenges with a clearer mind.

Education & Training

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2025-2026

2013 - Present

2012 - 2013

1992, 1995

In November 2025, I began Duke University's Health & Well-Being Coach Training to enhance the services I offer by next summer.

I've trained under a variety of professionals in the medical field, psychologists, and integrative modalities. Read more in my Yoga Alliance Profile.

  • 200-hour certified yoga instructor, Bhumi's Yoga and Wellness Center

  • 100-hour certified yoga nidra facilitator, The Amrit Institute

  • ​B.A. in Interpersonal Communication, Central CT State University

  • M.A. in Higher Education Administration, The University of Akron

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Address

Greater Cleveland

Northeast Ohio

Phone

216.245.9764

Email

Connect

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