Meet Anna.
Hey There.
So glad you stopped by to say hello. Let me introduce myself, I’m Anna. I believe in finding hope in our stories, yours included by honoring our lived experiences, unpredictable seasons of life and giving meaning to the human experience.
After receiving my undergraduate degree in social work and religious studies, I graduated with my Master of Social Work from East Carolina University in 2016. I’m a 500 hour yoga teacher, registered with Yoga Alliance and License Clinical Social Worker. I received my 200 hour training through the Kunga Yoga Lifestyle Teacher Training and my 300 hour training Kunga Yoga Therapeutic Essentials Teacher Training, taught at The Wilmington Yoga Center. Becoming a yoga teacher shifted my perspective on trauma healing. I’ve since trained with trauma informed yoga experts such as David Emerson, Hala Khouri and Kristin Cooper.
In 2012, my life drastically changed when I started regular therapy to deal with the aftermath of a traumatic childhood, a parent who was diagnosed with a chronic mental health disorder and a history of sexual harm. There in the midst of deep heartache, I met myself in a new way and found that healing is possible. I’ve learned, it’s not an easy road, but a rich and fulfilling one. Since my healing journey started nearly a decade ago, I’ve continued to unearth variations of myself and find deeper elements of understanding to my experience and honoring the lived experience of others.
Along the way I’ve met a lot of people and one question I get asked often, is what led you into the place you are now? It’s a reasonable question to ask, but it’s one I often fumble through. There is no straight answer. See, there are many reasons as to how and why I am here. Learning the real answers to that question are like a good sunrise, you’ve got to sit in the dark, wait, then little by little inches of light appear. Eventually the sun shows herself. Good answers take time to develop and often we have to face the dark before we get to see the glory of the light.
So I’m here with you, I do not have all the answers, but I’m willing to face the dark and anticipate the hope of the dawning light.
And for what it matters, I believe healing is possible for everyone, no matter age, gender or situation – it is possible.
Love Always,
Anna Marie Smith