Inspiring Conversations with Shannon Santerelli-Freeman of Modern Hippie Soul

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Santerelli-Freeman.

Hi Shannon, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I spent my formative years in the enchanting city of Phoenix, Arizona, deeply connected to my tribal heritage.

Even as a child, I found myself drawn to paths outside the confines of societal norms and religious doctrines. Compassion for those in need coursed through me, visualized as a beam of light extending from my heart to offer solace. It wasn’t until 2011, when I was a single mother to two young children that I recognized this instinctual practice as akin to reiki.

Juggling the demands of motherhood, career aspirations, and personal battles, I defied societal expectations to rise to a lead project manager role at a renowned construction firm in Arizona. Unsupported both emotionally and financially and grappling with toxicity from close relatives, I propelled myself forward in my career as a means to transcend their negativity.

I found myself clinging to the material trappings of success, believing they could insulate my children from adversity. Yet, despite the outward appearance of fulfillment, I battled inner turmoil and inadequacy. I felt I fell short of societal ideals and struggled to find authenticity in my roles as both a mother and a professional. The weight of these expectations, coupled with physical ailments like ovarian cysts and chronic fatigue, pushed me to seek medical help.

However, conventional medicine only exacerbated my troubles. Overprescribed and facing a medical crisis, I realized the need for an alternative approach to wellness. Thus began my journey into holistic healing, starting with reiki therapy. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a profound transformation in my life.

Over the ensuing years, I dedicated myself wholeheartedly to exploring various healing modalities and apprenticing with esteemed mentors. Despite my passion, I kept this spiritual journey hidden in the corporate world, fearing judgment and misunderstanding.

Struggling to reconcile my dual identities as a corporate leader and a healer, I found a mentor who helped me bridge the gap between science and spirituality. Through this integration, I began to engage skeptics and critics, demonstrating the tangible benefits of holistic practices in modern life.

A move to Nashville brought yet another profound chapter in my journey, prompting a reevaluation of my priorities after a health scare. Forced into stillness during recovery, I rediscovered the importance of balance between the spiritual and the mundane.

By blending ancient wisdom with contemporary approaches, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless women through their journeys of healing and self-discovery. Through my experiences, I’ve learned that nurturing our inner selves doesn’t require esoteric practices; it’s about choosing to live authentically in a way that honors our human and spiritual dimensions.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I prefer to view my challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.

I’ve certainly had my fair share of these growth opportunities. Throughout my life, I’ve often found myself straddling the line between different worlds. In my youth, I didn’t fully fit into the punk rock scene at dive bars every weekend, nor did I quite belong in the trendy downtown art galleries. Yet, somehow, I managed to navigate both environments.

This theme persisted as I matured, balancing a successful corporate career with a profound spiritual journey. Embracing this duality taught me to appreciate every aspect of myself, recognizing that each piece contributes to the whole, which is pretty remarkable.

My upbringing exposed me to unhealthy behaviors that I carried into adulthood, leading to tumultuous relationships. It took years for me to understand that self-love manifests in various ways, including standing up against abuse rather than tolerating it for the sake of harmony. Reflecting on my past, I realized that I am deserving of more—I love myself enough to demand better.

In coming to Nashville, the lesson of self-love became even more paramount. I’ve come to believe that the lessons we learn evolve as we grow, similar to moving from level 2 to level 22 in a game. Often, these lessons trace back to our childhood and involve those closest to us. My most recent lesson was no exception, as it entangled the people dearest to me in an incredibly toxic workplace.

This experience shattered a glass ceiling, leading me to discover a newfound sense of self-love. It was a pivotal moment when I realized that returning to my spiritual practice and embracing a life infused with self-love and spirituality was infinitely more beautiful than navigating without it. The overarching theme has always been love and, most importantly, the love of yourself.

As you know, we’re big fans of Modern Hippie Soul. What can you tell our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand?
Over a decade ago, the concept of the Modern Hippie Soul took root in my life. From the early days of MySpace, I’d describe myself as a modern hippie and inquisitive soul, a label that resonated deeply with me. As my spiritual practice blossomed, it became clear that my business should embody this ethos. Thus, Modern Hippie Soul was born. My aim? To represent women navigating the complexities of the modern world yet feeling a profound connection to times past.

For empowered women seeking deep connections, fearless creativity, and a vibrant, inclusive community, Modern Hippie Soul is a haven. Known for my unique blend of energetic and sound healing and shamanic training complemented by the power of crystals, I root my approach in scientific understanding. Drawing from my corporate background, I recognize the skepticism towards holistic health. I strive to educate my clients on the science behind my methods, elucidating how specific frequencies, animal archetypes, and crystals align with our energetic systems and physical bodies.

I firmly believe that everyone possesses the innate knowledge to heal themselves; sometimes, we just need guidance on how to access it. That’s where my role as an energy coach comes in. Rather than be perceived as doing the healing, I empower my clients to elevate their own frequencies and embrace a state of healing. This philosophy underpins my bespoke signature program, Balancing Brilliance, a transformative 90-day journey for women ready to conquer burnout and exude power.

Whether through remote energetic/sound sessions or in-person integrative sessions for those in Nashville, I offer avenues for relaxation, rejuvenation, and, most importantly, true transformation. Nashville’s enchanting energy has captivated me, and I’m honored to share my expertise through workshops and retreats throughout the city.

Additionally, I host retreats in the serene landscapes of Sedona, AZ, and middle Tennessee, offering participants a chance to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings. For the latest updates and offerings, visit my website.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
Despite being relatively new to Nashville, I’ve already discovered what makes it so special to me. Above all else, it’s the people who have welcomed me with open arms and genuine kindness. In such a short time, I’ve formed deep and lasting friendships that feel like they’ve been years in the making. And to top it off, I met my husband here, which makes this city even more magical.

What sets Nashville apart is its sense of community—a tight-knit bond that transcends everything else. I’ve been drawn to the vibrant local music scene, which offers a diverse range of talent and genres. Exploring Nashville and its surroundings has been an adventure in itself, especially when we hop in our Jeep with the doors and roof off. There’s nothing quite like getting lost in the beauty of the land with my family by my side.

Coming from Arizona, I must admit that adjusting to the colder temperatures has been a challenge. Anything below 70 degrees feels like a near-death experience! But even with this small inconvenience, Nashville has quickly become my home away from home, a place where warmth isn’t just in the weather but in the hearts of its people.

Pricing:

• Remote Distance and Sound for 90 minutes $185
• Complimentary Discovery Call to see if Balancing Brilliance is right for you!
• Girls Day or Trip? Email to start co-creating a bespoke experience!
• Email me for discounts exclusive to Nashville locals!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.modernhippiesoul.com
• Instagram: @modernhippiesoul

Image Credits
By Pneuma