Mothering as a Universal Path: A Conversation with Julia Romano

Episode Overview In this grounded and heartfelt conversation, Amy Wheeler speaks with yoga therapist and licensed mental health professional Julia Romano about her new book, Yoga Therapy for the Whole Mother. While the book addresses the postpartum journey, Amy and Julia reveal that its deeper message is about learning to mother—not just children, but ourselves, one another, and the world. Julia shares how her life on a farm in West Virginia, her personal healing, and her spiritual path have shaped her therapeutic work. She speaks about the power of awareness, the centrality of presence, and the practical and sacred ways that yoga therapy can help people return to their innate wholeness. Topics ExploredThe archetype of the mother as a model for therapeutic presence and attunementThe link between awareness and agency in nervous system regulationYoga therapy as a re-mothering experience for clients with early attachment woundsHealing disordered body awareness through movement and breathRupture and repair in relationships as essential to human growthMeaning and purpose as antidotes to modern fragmentationWhy the teachings of yoga must be embodied, not just understood intellectually Key Quotes “Awareness begets choice—and choice is where healing begins.” — Julia Romano “Yoga therapy is not just about asana or breath; it's about creating a sacred space where another human being feels truly seen.” — Amy Wheeler “It’s not about the rupture—it’s about the repair.” — Julia Romano “This book is not just about postpartum healing. It’s a masterclass in how to be a great yoga therapist.” — Amy Wheeler About the Book Yoga Therapy for the Whole Mother is a deeply researched and spiritually grounded guide to the postpartum journey, but its insights go far beyond the early months of motherhood. Drawing from classical yoga, neuroscience, clinical experience, and lived wisdom, Julia offers practical tools and philosophical depth for anyone seeking healing, connection, and purpose. The book covers topics such as disordered body image, stress and fatigue, breath regulation, trauma-informed care, the pañcamaya model, and how the therapeutic relationship itself can be a path to wholeness. All research citations and expanded literature reviews are available on Julia’s website under the resources section. Connect with Julia RomanoWebsite: www.developingawarenesstherapy.comOffers individual yoga therapy sessions (telehealth and in-person)Available for mentoring newer yoga therapistsWrites regularly on two Substack newsletters:The Yoga Therapy LensParenting While Walking a Spiritual Path Closing Reflections This conversation is a reflection on what it means to live the teachings of yoga—whether in clinical sessions, parenting moments, or quiet daily rituals. Julia reminds us that the act of mothering is not confined to gender or stage of life. It is a practice of witnessing, tending, and trusting the healing that comes through relationship. For anyone who works in healing, caregiving, or simply wants to live with more integrity and compassion, this episode offers deep insight and practical inspiration. Please add normal links for Amy and MUIH- thank you!