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My Story

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

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My wellness and mindfulness journey began when I transitioned out of a career in marketing communications to realign with my original calling — mentoring, teaching, and helping others thrive. At the time, I was also managing chronic pain, joint issues, stress, and insomnia, which impacted my overall quality of life.

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Connecting with professionals in functional medicine and holistic health was a turning point. Through their guidance, I uncovered and improved underlying health issues and discovered the transformative power of mind-body practices. These experiences inspired me to dedicate my career to helping others find their own path to healing, balance, and resilience.

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I became a registered yoga instructor in 2012 and have since completed additional trainings in adaptive movement, meditation, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices. My background in adult learning and program development enhances my approach as a coach and educator, allowing me to guide clients in developing practical stress management tools and sustainable work-life balance strategies.

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Today, I bring together lived experience, specialized training, and compassionate coaching to support individuals and groups in navigating both physical and emotional challenges. I work with clients managing a wide range of conditions, including:

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  • Addiction

  • Anxiety

  • Arthritis

  • Chronic pain

  • Eating disorders (EDs)

  • Grief and loss

  • Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke

  • Life transitions

  • Long COVID / CFS

  • Mobility limitations and physical restrictions

  • Mood disorders

  • Parkinson’s disease

  • Sciatica

  • Trauma / PTSD

  • Work-life balance challenges

About Shirley Image. Shirley hiking in the mountains.

Education

2025-2026

2013 - Present

2012 - 2013

1992, 1995

This November, I begin 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 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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