A Holistic Approach to Coaching
My holistic approach starts with the assumption that there is no one right way to be an academic and that you already have the knowledge within you to live an authentic academic life.
Using the tools of yoga and mindfulness (movement, breath, meditation, mantra, intentions, journaling), I create a calm and welcoming space for cultivating self-awareness and connection to your whole Self - physically, mentally, emotionally, and energetically.
As you enhance your ability to listen to and trust your intuitive wisdom, you will discover new possibilities for living your academic life in a way that authentically aligns with your core values and priorities.
My coaching is for those who feel overwhelmed, burned out, or unfulfilled by chasing the ideal academic career.
Specifically, I can help if you:
are experiencing imposter syndrome or self-doubt. Perhaps your inner critic tells you that you’re not doing the right things or working hard enough to be successful.
are putting aspects of your life on hold (e.g. play, health, relationships). Perhaps you are waiting to do something until you achieve your next academic goal.
are feeling overwhelmed and unfocused. Perhaps you feel there is never enough time to complete everything you need to do or have difficulties completing tasks or setting boundaries and priorities.
have lost your enthusiasm and passion for academic work. Perhaps you are no longer excited by the topics and ideas that initially drew you into academia.
About Michele
My academic journey
I’ve worked as an environmental social scientist for more than 30 years in both the US and Europe. I have taught at all levels, conducted research, led interdisciplinary teams, created new research fields, and served as department chair. I’ve been a “successful” academic judging by traditional measures (e.g. fellowships, promotions, publication record, research funding, awards, etc.), AND I have personally experienced anxiety, depression, burnout, imposter syndrome, and paralyzing self-doubt. I have struggled with balancing the demands of an academic career with the challenges of parenting and maintaining important relationships. I have at times neglected my physical health and abandoned hobbies that once brought me joy. I have even considered leaving academia altogether.
Yoga certification
Throughout my career, I have turned to the practices of yoga and mindfulness–meditation, movement, breathing, journaling, mantra–to help me navigate and thrive in the academic world in a way that feels authentic to me. I completed my 200-hours yoga teaching certification in 2020 with the Holistic Yoga School in Colorado. I have additional training in trauma-informed yoga, yoga for healthy aging, yoga for Parkinson’s, yin yoga, and yoga nidra. I have taught yoga classes off and on since receiving my certification and especially love adapting practices for individuals with mobility limitations, whether that be related to age, body-type, injury, or disease.
Coaching training
Many people have suggested I consider coaching over the years, but it took me a long time to find an approach that fit my skills and experience. It was only when I discovered holistic and mindfulness coaching that I felt I had something to offer. These approaches, which emphasize self-awareness and personal transformation, resonate with my commitment to helping people become the best versions of themselves. I received my professional life coach certification from Transformation Academy in 2026, with additional training in yoga life coaching, spiritual life coaching, energy alignment, and the law of attraction.
If this resonates with you, let’s start the journey together.
