In this deeply insightful conversation, Amy Wheeler sits down with yoga therapist Mandy Henderly to explore her personal journey of healing and embodiment. Mandy shares her story of being diagnosed with a brain tumor at 13, how her nervous system responded to the medical trauma, and how yoga eventually became a key tool for reconnecting with her body and navigating mental health challenges.

From discovering yoga in her teens (thanks to Madonna’s iconic Ray of Light era) to embracing a therapeutic approach with The Optimal State, Mandy's transformation speaks to the power of yoga beyond the physical. She discusses the importance of slowing down, finding stability in life’s ebbs and flows, and integrating yoga into daily life in a sustainable, non-perfectionist way.

Amy and Mandy also dive into the growing loneliness epidemic, the importance of co-regulation, and why human connection will always remain essential—even as AI continues to advance.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Recognizing and processing medical trauma as a teenager
• The role of yoga in reconnecting with the body after dissociation
• How yoga therapy supports mental health and emotional well-being
• The importance of slowing down and finding sattva in daily life
• The need for strong human connection in an increasingly digital world
• Yoga therapy as a path to integration, not perfection

Notable Quotes from the Episode:

• “When life ebbs, I flow.” — Mandy Henderly
• “Yoga helps me slow down and reconnect with my center. It doesn’t erase life’s ups and downs, but it allows me to move through them with more grace.”
• “AI can’t co-regulate with you. True healing happens in human connection.”

Resources & Mentions:

• Mandy’s Offerings: www.MandyHenderly.com
• Beloved Asheville (Community Support Organization): Beloved Asheville
• Vira Bhava Yoga (Teacher-Owned Cooperative): Vira Bhava Yoga

Connect with Amy Wheeler:

• Website: The Optimal State
• Podcast: The Yoga Therapy Hour
• Social Media: @TheOptimalState