Savanna Stevens is a thoughtful leader in the Health & Wellness industry, the Founder of S3 YOGA, she is also a Yoga Instructor, Model, Mental Health & Wellness Advocate, and Speaker. With her great energy, Savanna inspires and empowers others through inclusive wellness.
T. S3 YOGA is a powerful and inclusive wellness community. What were some of the key challenges you faced in creating such an inclusive space, and how did you overcome them?
S. One of the biggest challenges was getting out of my own head. Doing the inner work myself enabled me to show up and create a space for my community to do the same. I have been successful in fostering an inclusive space because I, too, am going through the journey and understand firsthand what is needed to heal, learn, and grow through yoga and beyond. At S3 YOGA, we ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, feels seen and valued. We’ve designed our signature class series to accommodate all skill levels and encourage feedback to continuously improve. Education and self-awareness have been crucial, ensuring our approach is respectful, fun, and approachable. Building personal relationships with community members has helped me create a warm and supportive environment where everyone feels they belong.
T. Your career transition from your dream job at the NBA to founding S3 YOGA was a significant leap of faith. What advice would you give to someone considering a similar bold move in pursuit of their passion?
S. When I was 16, I found my father dead from a heart attack, and shortly after, I nearly died due to complications from knee surgery. These experiences taught me how precious life is and that our time on earth shouldn’t be wasted. This realization drove me to quit my 9-5 and pursue my wildest dreams. To anyone considering a similar bold move, my advice is to jump—take the leap of faith. It’s like skydiving (which I did right after quitting my job!). The fear disappears the moment you jump.
Listen to your intuition and embrace the unknown with an open heart. Leaving a secure job to follow your passion can be intimidating, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Do your research, create a solid plan, and surround yourself with a supportive network. Expect challenges, but view them as opportunities for growth. Remember, it’s never a failure, always a lesson. The journey will be tough, but the joy and fulfillment from living your true calling are immeasurable.
T. Having worked with elite clients and top-tier brands, how do you maintain authenticity and balance in an industry often driven by image and external validation?
S. Staying true to my values and who I am has allowed me to work with the clients I do. I have had this self-awareness from day one and am reminded of it time and again. I’ve ended contracts that no longer aligned with my mission. I frequently review my values, goals, and vision. Racehorses wear blinders for a reason. I stay grounded by focusing on my mission and not worrying about what’s happening outside of it. I set boundaries, take time for reflection, and ensure I’m surrounded by a supportive community. Focusing on the positive impact I can make, rather than seeking external validation, keeps me grounded and true to myself.
T. Balancing a multi-faceted career can be challenging. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned about time management and self-care?
S. My mission is to become the best version of myself in mind, body, and spirit, and to inspire my generation to do the same. You’ve got to save yourself before you save the world. The biggest lessons I’ve learned about time management and self-care involve self-awareness. If I’m not in a good mental, physical, or spiritual state, it directly affects how I show up in my career and life. Whether it’s clean eating, meditation, movement, therapy, journaling—the list goes on—I’ve identified the tools I need in my toolbox to best show up for myself and my community. Learning to say no to opportunities that don’t align with my goals has been crucial in maintaining balance and ensuring I have the energy to focus on what truly matters.
T. Looking ahead, what are some of your biggest dreams or goals for the future, both personally and professionally?
S. Professionally, I dream of expanding S3 YOGA’s reach to touch even more lives worldwide. I envision creating wellness retreats, developing online courses, and partnering with organizations globally to integrate yoga and wellness into their programs. Personally, I hope to continue growing as a mental health and wellness advocate and speaker, write a book, and explore opportunities in television to spread my message further. My ultimate goal is to inspire and empower as many people as possible to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
T. What were some of your dreams and aspirations as a child?
S. As a child, I always dreamed of becoming a model. This dream (thankfully) has evolved into a career beyond my wildest imagination, where I can blend all my passions and inspire others, no matter their dreams or walk of life.
T. Can you share a few daily rituals or practices that help you stay grounded and centered?
S. For me, it’s about connecting with sources on a daily basis. Whether through yoga, meditation, being in nature, moving my body, journaling, reading, listening to inspiring music, or eating whole and natural foods, these practices help me maintain a sense of balance, grounding, and inner peace, no matter what’s going on around me.
Instagram: savkstevens
