SHAUNAVON — Christine Ciona, also known as the "Shining Joy Guru," is a multi-talented counsellor, practitioner and entrepreneur who brings joy and enthusiasm to her classes. Her bright persona shines through in her website greeting: "Hi Sunshine, I'm Christine."
With over 25 years of experience in private practice and 15 years of facilitating groups, Ciona has developed a dynamic teaching style that resonates with individuals and groups online and in person. She has also created programs for the elderly and those grieving the loss of a pet.
When asked about her favourite program, however, Ciona expressed her fondness for all her classes.
"I have love for all the classes in helping to bring people inner joy in a variety of ways," she stated.
Her passion for helping others is evident in her work.
Ciona's journey back to Shaunavon began when she stopped her vehicle during a trip and noticed the sunlight rising from the darkness. This moment became a turning point in her work, as she reflects on the importance of community and well-being in the post-COVID era.
"After COVID, we have all been impacted, and the communities have been impacted," said Ciona, who used to visit Shaunavon quite regularly before the pandemic stalled those activities.
She says her newest initiative is about "the core values of connections and contributions" and "making sure being well is accessible for everyone."
After two years of planning, Ciona is launching her new class, Soma, which focuses on body movement therapy using nervous system theory. Designed for adults and youth, Soma aims to bring people back to a state of inner joy and awareness.
Ciona's decision to bring Soma to Shaunavon was inspired by the demand from her previous classes in Val Marie. When participants there started practising yoga again after the pandemic, Ciona sensed an opportunity to create a new program tailored to their needs.
According to Ciona, all it takes is a request from the community to spark creativity and bring people together.
"All it takes is an ask for the creativity to be part of the community - the power of an ask in a heartbeat moment," she stated.
She believes that building relationships and communities is essential for our well-being.
In Soma, Ciona combines gentle movements with sound and body awareness to help people reset and find their inner balance. Her approach emphasizes the importance of listening to our bodies and finding ways to thrive in our communities.
With her Soma Space classes, Ciona aims to bring vibrancy and joy back to smaller towns like Shaunavon.
By promoting connection, contribution, and well-being, she is helping people rediscover the joy of living. If you're interested in learning more about Ciona's programs, you can reach out to her at .
