As I look back over my life I see a thread of creativity from almost the beginning and I see the mandala showing up here and there – really not even knowing the word “mandala” for a long time. I painted, quilted, drew, “threw” pots (pottery), made stained glass art, did woodworking and more… all feeding my creative side.

Meanwhile in my early 20’s I became more aware of the spiritual side of my being. I started exploring meditation, learned to do yoga, became much more aware of nutritional factors and health. I traveled to India to continue my studies there, and upon returning to the states, I was co-owner of the Institute of Yogic Culture in Southern California. I spent the next few years teaching yoga, meditation, vegetarian cooking and massage classes through the mid to late 1970’s.

1979 found me at Western States Chiropractic College where I received my chiropractic degree (D.C.), and I later added an acupuncture certification to it. I was co- founder/partner and practitioner at a Wellness Center in McCall, Idaho for over 20 years and continue to practice in Taos, New Mexico. For most of my life I have felt the calling for ‘helping people to improve the quality of their lives.’ and I have fulfilled that mission through the work as a health practitioner.

Email: umajoyhealingart@gmail.com

Website: umajoyhealingart.com