Today we’d like to introduce you to Mara Fowler.
Mara, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am Mara Fowler, founder of MS Yoga Movements and a yoga teacher who believes accessibility is everything. My journey didn’t start in a studio; it started with a diagnosis. I was 20 when I was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but looking back I can see signs years earlier. That moment changed everything: it pushed me into learning, into healing, and ultimately into teaching.
Yoga became my medicine and my map. I pursued my training with a focus on chronic-illness-informed practice so I could make yoga safe, effective, and joyful for people with limitations, especially those living with MS. I teach chair and gentle classes locally (Pinecrest Community Center, libraries, YMCA pop-ups like The Peacemaker and Suniland Park) and I’m building out online offerings so folks can practice from home.
Beyond the mat I’m an advocate: a State Advocate Leader with the National MS Society and an active member of the MS community. I founded the MS Collective on Facebook to bring people together, share resources, and amplify our voices. I also host workshops like Aroma Restorative and sound-bath events, and I organize fundraisers (the Princess 5K, and the Miami Walk MS Event has been a meaningful way for me to raise awareness and support).
Every part of this teaching, activism, community building comes from the same place: I want people living with chronic illness to know they’re seen, capable, and welcome. My work blends breath, gentle movement, aroma, and story to help others find steadiness and joy, one breath at a time.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, my journey has not been without challenges. Throughout my life, I have experienced numerous relapses of Multiple Sclerosis. Some of these relapses were severe, necessitating a 21-day hospitalization in 2014 followed by eight months of rehabilitation to regain my ability to walk. The recovery process for my cognitive functions took approximately five to seven years, during which time my memory loss remains a significant obstacle, affecting my ability to function at my full potential.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What I Do & Specialize In
I teach yoga that is accessible for all ages and abilities, with a special focus on people living with chronic illness, mobility challenges, and Multiple Sclerosis. My approach combines chair yoga, restorative practices, gentle vinyasa, and even aroma-infused sessions so that movement, breath, and healing are available to every body.
What I’m Known For
I’m known for creating safe, welcoming spaces where students feel seen, supported, and empowered. Whether it’s a chair yoga class at Pinecrest Community Center, a gentle flow at the library, or an Aroma Restorative Workshop, my teaching blends physical movement with community connection.
I’m also recognized as a State Advocacy Leader with the National MS Society, which brings a deeper layer of purpose to my work my brand is not just about yoga, it’s about advocacy, awareness, and resilience.
What Sets Me Apart
What sets MS Yoga Movements apart is that I live the journey I teach. I’ve been living with MS for 25 years, so I know firsthand what it means to adapt, to listen to your body, and to keep showing up. My classes aren’t about achieving “perfect poses” they’re about progress, empowerment, and connection.
I also integrate essential oils, breathwork, and sound healing into select offerings, giving students a whole-person experience that nurtures both body and spirit.
What I’m Most Proud Of (Brand-wise)
I’m most proud of building a community that feels like family in my classes, community through The MS Collective, and at workshops where people show up not just to practice, but to connect. The heart of my brand is inclusivity: no one is left out, and everyone belongs.
What I Want Readers to Know
MS Yoga Movements is more than yoga classes it’s a movement for resilience and empowerment. I offer:
• Weekly community classes (chair yoga, restorative, gentle flow)
• Special workshops (Aroma Restorative Yoga, sound baths, prop-based practices)
• Online programs and recordings for when you can’t be in person
• Community support through The MS Collective
• Advocacy, education, and inspiration for the MS and chronic illness community
If there’s one thing I’d want readers to know, it’s this: you don’t have to be “flexible” to start yoga you just have to show up, and I’ll meet you exactly where you are.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
“Networking works best when it feels like community building, not just exchanging business cards. I’ve found my best mentors by showing up authentically, sharing my story, and saying yes to opportunities. When you give as much as you receive, the right people naturally step into your path.”
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.MSyogamovements.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msyogamovements?igsh=bGZ2NWVuaHl4N2Nk&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/176hfByC17/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-fowler-19a30a21b
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@msyogamovements?si=SuwI6bu74pGWSJGN
Image Credits
The Peacemaker for the aroma restorative workshop The Westchester branch library for my gentle vinyasa classes My Pinecrest Branch Library class at the Pinecrest branch library The picture of MS walk crew at this year’s 2024 walk.
