Yoga is more than a practice—it’s a way of life. For Carmita Smiles, founder of Smiles Yoga Wellness + Meditation (SYWM), yoga is a path of self-discovery, connection, and healing that extends far beyond the mat. Through a unique blend of movement, breathwork, and mindful living, Carmita has created an ever-evolving yoga business that reaches people where they are—whether at festivals, retreats, online, or in the heart of their own homes.
A Journey Rooted in Transformation
The story of Smiles Yoga Wellness + Meditation began in 2017 in Columbus, OH, with a creative and heartwarming approach—Dog Yoga. What started as a way for Carmita’s pet care clients to bond with their furry companions soon evolved into something much greater. When the pandemic shifted lives and routines, Carmita followed the natural flow of change, transitioning her focus from canine-assisted movement to guiding humans toward healing and self-awareness.
With deep dedication, she completed her 500-hour yoga teacher training, expanding her knowledge in Reiki, Ayurveda, and meditation, and began sharing her practice with diverse communities. Unlike traditional studios, SYWM was built on the idea of movement—not just physical movement but the movement of ideas, energy, and personal growth.
“I wanted my business to guide me outside of my comfort zone, to continuously connect me with new people and places,” Carmita shares. “Yoga is about expansion—of the body, the mind, and the way we interact with the world around us.”
Offerings That Inspire Healing & Connection
SYWM provides a variety of unique experiences, both online and in-person:
🧘 Online Courses – Dog Yoga Training, The Basics of Yoga, and AstroYoga
🌿 Workshops – Breathwork, Mudras, and Yoga for Genetic Transformation
🎪 Festival & Retreat Classes – Designed to align with the mission of each event
Each offering is beginner-friendly, rooted in yoga’s history, self-exploration, and the healing power of presence. Whether teaching breathwork techniques, guiding meditation, or leading a Dog Yoga session, Carmita encourages students to take these practices off the mat and into their everyday lives.`
A Soul-Led Approach to Yoga & Healing
What makes Smiles Yoga Wellness + Meditation unique? It’s the way it speaks directly to the soul. Many people feel drawn to yoga, meditation, or Eastern practices without always knowing why. Carmita has met countless students who describe an unexplainable pull toward the practice—often at times when they need it the most.
“I believe that healing looks different for everyone,” she explains. “But at its core, all roads lead to self-awareness, understanding, and grace. That’s what I hope to offer—a space where people can begin their journey, wherever they are, and trust that they’ll find what they need along the way.”
Through a blend of movement, breath, and mindful awareness, her teachings create space for deep transformation. The goal isn’t just to learn a pose but to cultivate awareness, build understanding, and offer oneself grace—three pillars that define her approach to yoga and life.
The Power of Community & Festivals Like Kentucky Yoga Festival
While SYWM has no physical studio, Carmita has built a strong presence within the festival and retreat community, connecting with people across the country through yoga and wellness events. Festivals like Kentucky Yoga Festival provide an opportunity to gather, learn, and heal together in a way that transcends everyday life.
“My first time teaching at KY Yoga Festival, I experienced new healing modalities and connected with people from all over—Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, New York, and beyond. It’s amazing how far people will come to share in yoga, meditation, ecstatic dance, and other expressive, healing practices.”
Every festival brings new faces, new lessons, and new magic. From first-time participants to seasoned practitioners, everyone leaves changed—whether they can put it into words or simply feel it in their hearts.
What’s Next for Smiles Yoga Wellness + Meditation?
As SYWM continues to evolve, Carmita remains committed to deepening her focus on the cultural and spiritual aspects of yoga, ensuring her offerings honor the roots of the practice while making it accessible to modern-day students.
🌟 Upcoming Offerings: More immersive workshops on Ayurveda, breathwork, and the philosophy of yoga
🌀 Expanding Online Courses: New digital programs for self-paced learning
🧘 Future Festival & Retreat Collaborations
“Yoga is a lifelong journey,” she says. “And I’m here to guide and learn alongside every person I meet.”
Connect with Smiles Yoga Wellness + Meditation
📸 Instagram: @carmitasmiles
🌐 Website: smilesyogawellness.com
Whether you’re a longtime yogi or just beginning to explore the practice, Smiles Yoga Wellness + Meditation invites you to step into awareness, understanding, and grace—on the mat, at the festival, and in everyday life. 🌿✨