We had the good fortune of connecting with Madison Polansky and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Madison, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.
In early 2023, I picked up “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert, famous for “Eat, Pray, Love.” It totally shifted how I see creativity. It made me realize I don’t need some special talent to create. The book taught me three big things: it’s okay to make stuff without a desired outcome, keep it fun, and not to let fear stop you. Before, I thought I wasn’t artistic enough, but now I know better. I tried painting right after reading the book, and while I’m no Picasso, I had a blast trying it. I’ve now found creativity in things like yoga, dancing, and singing. Basically, “Big Magic” showed me that being creative isn’t about being perfect—it’s about having fun and expressing yourself however feels right.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a former corporate professional immersed in the healthcare technology and oil and gas sectors, my journey has taken me from the confines of desk work in small-town settings to bustling corporate headquarters and even refinery sites. While my transition to becoming a healing arts practitioner wasn’t linear or without its challenges, I believe every twist and turn has been purposeful, guiding me to my current role as an entrepreneur and owner of Santosha Ventures, where I offer various healing modalities across northern Colorado.

My roots in Loveland, Colorado, grounded me as I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Alongside my academic pursuits, I immersed myself in extracurricular activities, balancing part-time work at Global Healthcare Exchange with leadership roles in various student clubs.

Post-graduation, I embarked on a dynamic career journey with Phillips 66, spanning locations from Oklahoma to Texas and California. From troubleshooting IT issues to overseeing global project coordination, my corporate tenure was marked by versatility and adaptability. However, it was during my stint at a refinery in California that I felt a calling back to my yoga practice, prompting me to undertake a transformative 200-hour yoga teacher certification program.

Balancing full-time work commitments with intensive training was no easy feat, yet it was a pivotal step in reconnecting with my passion for holistic wellness. Despite the challenges, I persevered, completing additional training modules and deepening my understanding of yoga’s roots.

The onset of the pandemic brought unforeseen challenges, disrupting my plans to transition into teaching and prompting a period of reflection. Over the following years, amidst the backdrop of a career break and personal milestones, the vision for Santosha Ventures began to take shape.

In February 2023, fueled by a desire to create accessible healing experiences, I established Santosha Ventures LLC. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to sharing the transformative power of yoga, reiki, and sound healing with the community. From leading immersive yoga classes to pioneering unique offerings like silent disco yoga, my mission is to make healing accessible to all.

Through Santosha Ventures, I aspire to foster self-understanding and promote healing for every body. As one client beautifully articulated, Santosha Ventures isn’t a place, but a philosophy to promote healing through understanding yourself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
You’re heading to Northern Colorado for a weekend trip? Here’s what we’re doing! Breakfast at Taste Local in Loveland, head up to Horsetooth for a hike and then off to Odell’s for food and drink after. Dinner at my place on the back patio where my wife will make the best fried rice on the griddle grill and I’ll make delicious mocktails.

We’ll definitely grab a coffee at Dark Heart and then walk around downtown Loveland where I’ll show you Soulshine Botanica and Pure Vibes for all your witchy and wonderous knick knacks. We’ll then check out Benson Sculpture Garden where I can tell you all about the ~180 sculptures installed in the park. Take a rest before heading out for dinner and drinks at Social in Fort Collins and then hit up a comedy show with Don’t Tell Comedy.

There is so much to do here in Northern Colorado from eating good food and treating yourself to tasty libations to hiking and nature walks, shopping in Old Town Fort Collins, and making new friends along the way!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am deeply grateful for the support and guidance I’ve received from numerous individuals along my journey thus far. Reflecting on my transformative experience during the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in California, I am overwhelmed with gratitude towards the exceptional teachers turned friends who played a pivotal role in shaping my path.

Maria Odense, Annie Marinchak, and Samantha Schlaich, your dedication to the practice of yoga and your commitment to imparting your wisdom have left an unforgettable mark on my journey. Your teachings not only expanded my knowledge but also enriched my understanding of the authentic essence of yoga. Thank you for your invaluable mentorship, unwavering support, and for instilling in me a deep reverence for this ancient practice.

Website: www.santoshaventures.com

Instagram: santosha_ventures

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madison-polansky-a2701a98/

Facebook: Santosha Ventures LLC

Image Credits
Hailey Bergstrom

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