Suzanna Mannion, founder of Heart Alive Yoga & Retreats. (Credit: Courtesy of Heart Alive Yoga & Retreats)
Her Yoga Retreats and Women’s Circles Are Designed to Improve Wellbeing
Suzanna Mannion is the founder of Hearts Alive Yoga & Retreats, a startup offering clients community and calm.
During Covid lockdowns, Suzanna Mannion started experiencing anxiety. To help cope with the stress, she signed up for a yoga teacher training course, which ultimately led her to uncover a “deep calling to connect with my community in person, and share the self-care resources I worked hard to gain.” Marion decided to start offering live and virtual yoga classes – and with her background in design and marketing, she was able to quickly develop these efforts into a brand, Hearts Alive Yoga & Retreats. Today, the Pinole, California-based business owner has added to her offerings: She now hosts retreats, women’s circles and even somatic coaching, all with the goal of helping others tap into their own inner knowing.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
I offer a unique selection of in-person and online offerings to support women’s wellness. Our yoga classes strengthen and calm the mind and body. Our women’s circles support a sense of connection in a deeply fragmented and loud world. Our retreats are like doing 40 therapy sessions in one weekend’s time.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Other than raising a healthy and happy child – starting a business that supports other people’s well-being. Launching my retreat retreat in 2023 and selling out both sessions was very fulfilling, as was hearing the feedback from attendees who loved the experience.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
I am a right-brained visionary critter. I’ve had to figure out how to approach my accounting and bookkeeping with prowess.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?
If my business wants to expand – and I believe it does – I will need to make a big decision about leaving my full-time job and going all in.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Follow your passion. Keep the dream alive. Hire a coach to support you in the process, and to keep you accountable. Push past limiting fears. It can be done!
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
I send voice notes to friends. I lean on my therapist. I do yoga, aromatherapy, sound healing and journaling. And, I unplug from work!
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“Sunroof” by Nicky Youre and dazy.
Who is your most important role model?
My somatic therapist, Satya Aune Gita. She’s a yoga teacher, bodyworker, retreat leader and amazing at her work. ◼️
Instagram: @heartsaliveyoga
Facebook: @heartsaliveyoga
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