4: Somatic Movement, Self Guided Yoga Practice, With Guest Jessica Sechoka, Communications Lead At Wanderwild Family Retreats & Wand(HER)wild
Introduction
Life is filled with seasons of change, and as mothers, we often find ourselves at the crossroads of personal growth and transformation. In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica, Carolyn, and Jess discuss the power of transition—whether it's shifting careers, stepping into deeper motherhood, or embracing a new chapter with intention.
With Monica’s recent departure from her engineering career after 13 years, the launch of the Wand(HER)wild Member Space, and the continuous journey of balancing work, motherhood, and purpose, this conversation is a powerful reminder that transformation can be both exhilarating and deeply grounding.
The Beauty & Fear of Major Life Transitions
Monica’s journey from working in oil and gas engineering to stepping fully into motherhood and conscious community building is a testament to the courage it takes to follow your intuition. Leaving behind a long-standing career, especially one tied to identity and societal success, can feel daunting. However, she shares that the more she leaned into the transition, the clearer it became that this shift was necessary for her personal and professional fulfillment.
Many of us experience pivotal life transitions—whether it’s shifting careers, relocating, entering a new phase of motherhood, or rediscovering our purpose. These shifts often come with fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty, but they also hold the potential for immense personal growth.
How to Navigate Major Life Transitions with Confidence
Listen to Your Intuition – If something feels misaligned, acknowledge it. Trust the subtle (or loud) nudges guiding you toward a path that feels more authentic.
Find a Support System – Surround yourself with a community that uplifts and encourages you, whether it’s family, friends, or a like-minded motherhood group.
Embrace the Fear, but Move Forward Anyway – Fear is a natural part of change. Rather than letting it paralyze you, let it be a signal that growth is happening.
Give Yourself Permission to Evolve – Your identity isn’t static. Just because you’ve spent years in one role doesn’t mean you can’t shift into something new and fulfilling.
Celebrate Small Wins – Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Recognize and honor your growth along the way.
Self-Guided Yoga & Somatic Movement for Emotional Well-Being
One of the key discussions in this episode revolves around self-guided yoga and somatic movement—two powerful tools for managing stress, releasing stored emotions, and deepening the connection with oneself. Jess, an experienced yoga teacher, shares how movement practices can be a gateway to self-awareness, emotional healing, and nervous system regulation.
What is Somatic Movement?
Somatic movement focuses on tuning into your body’s sensations, rather than simply performing structured exercises. It’s about listening to your body’s wisdom and allowing movement to flow intuitively, helping to release stored stress and tension.
Benefits of Somatic Movement & Self-Guided Yoga
Releases stagnant energy and emotional blockages.
Encourages mind-body awareness and nervous system regulation.
Enhances emotional resilience by allowing suppressed emotions to be expressed.
Supports grounding and relaxation, making it an excellent tool for overwhelmed mothers.
Helps restore balance in the body by increasing flexibility and circulation.
Can be a powerful self-care ritual for stress management and emotional processing.
Simple Ways to Get Started with Somatic Movement
Shaking Meditation – Gently shake out different body parts (arms, legs, torso) to release tension and move stagnant energy. This can be especially helpful after a stressful day.
Intuitive Stretching – Instead of following a structured routine, move into positions that feel good for your body in the moment. Tune into areas of tension and allow yourself to hold stretches longer where needed.
Dancing for Emotional Release – Play a song that resonates with your mood and allow yourself to move freely without judgment. Dance can be a great way to shift energy and elevate your emotional state.
Breath & Movement Connection – Sync deep breathing with slow, fluid movements, such as cat-cow stretches or forward bends. This combination helps regulate the nervous system and increase mindfulness.
Grounding Postures – Try legs-up-the-wall pose or child’s pose to help regulate the nervous system and restore calm. These poses can be especially beneficial before bed or during moments of anxiety.
Use Your Environment – Take your practice outdoors. Practicing movement in nature, whether it’s stretching in the grass or walking barefoot on the earth, can enhance the grounding effects of somatic movement.
The Role of Yoga in Intuitive Connection
Jess explains how her yoga classes are designed not just as exercise but as a tool for deeper self-awareness. Rather than focusing on the “perfect” pose, her classes invite exploration, stillness, and movement that feels nourishing to the body.
Carolyn echoes this, explaining how her own yoga practice shifted from structured routines to intuitive movement—listening to where her body holds tension and allowing movement to release stress. Yoga can be a profound tool for mothers to reconnect with themselves, process emotions, and create space for self-care.
Practical Tips for a Self-Guided Yoga Practice:
Start small – Set aside just 5–10 minutes to move intuitively each day.
Follow your body’s needs – Focus on where you feel tension and gently stretch or move in ways that bring relief.
Use music as a guide – Play soothing or energizing music to help set the tone for your movement.
Incorporate deep breathing – Pair movement with intentional breathwork to enhance relaxation.
Release expectations – There is no “right” or “wrong” way—let your body lead the way.
Explore Different Modalities – If yoga doesn’t resonate with you, try breathwork, qi gong, or even mindful walking as a way to incorporate movement and awareness.
The Importance of Creating Spaces for Mothers
Through their work with Wand(HER)wild, Monica, Carolyn, and Jess are passionate about providing spaces where mothers can feel seen, supported, and empowered. The Wand(HER)wild Member Space was designed as a place for intentional connection, personal growth, and holistic well-being.
Unlike traditional mom groups, this space offers bite-sized guidance, embodiment practices, and community support without overwhelming busy mothers. It’s a safe space where mothers can explore intuitive motherhood, self-healing, and aligned living at their own pace.
Why Community & Support Matter in Motherhood:
Having a trusted circle allows mothers to express challenges without judgment.
Shared wisdom from like-minded women helps navigate motherhood with more ease.
Accountability & encouragement make self-care more accessible and sustainable.
Creates a space for emotional release and vulnerability, fostering deeper connections.
Encourages lifelong learning and self-discovery in a supportive environment.
A Call to Mothers Seeking More
If this conversation resonates with you, we invite you to become part of the Wand(HER)wild community—a space where we explore self-development, feminine spirituality, and conscious motherhood together.
Join the Movement
If this story resonates with you, we invite you to explore more. Visit our free resources, upcoming digital events, in person family retreats, and follow us on Substack or follow us on Instagram for conversations on self-healing and intentional living. Let’s walk this path together.
