For many students, the path to SWIHA begins in a moment of deep inner questioning. For Shanda Mack, that moment was marked by what she lovingly describes as a time of spiritual limbo—a powerful in-between space where clarity had not yet arrived; however, the calling was undeniable.
Before enrolling at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, Shanda found herself standing at a crossroads. She knew she was meant to spiritually inspire others, yet she was still discerning how to align that calling with a sustainable, prosperous career. The desire to create meaningful impact—while honoring both her spiritual gifts and her professional goals—ultimately led her to the Integrative Healing Arts Practitioner (IHAP) program.
“The IHAP program describes who I am spiritually,” Shanda shares. “It allows me to passionately gain and obtain all that I desire from a financial, personal, practical, professional, and spiritual perspective.”
A Defining Moment of Trust and Faith
Shanda’s defining moment came not in a classroom, rather during a single phone call. Her first conversation with a SWIHA Admissions Coach became the catalyst that transformed uncertainty into confidence.
“When I hung up the phone, there wasn’t any doubt in my mind that I had made the right decision,” she recalls. “I undoubtedly knew I was making a great decision by enrolling at SWIHA.”
That moment affirmed what her intuition had been quietly guiding her toward all along: it was time to take the leap, trust the process, and commit fully to her spiritual and professional growth.
Growth, Clarity, and Inner Freedom
Since completing the IHAP program in February 2026, Shanda reflects on her journey as nothing short of transformative. Her life has expanded in ways that feel both grounding and liberating—offering her clarity, confidence, and the freedom to choose a path that aligns with her soul’s purpose.
“It has allowed me to broaden my horizons, mind, and perspective,” she says. “I now have even more guidance and confidence when it comes to my goals and career.”
This inner expansion has empowered Shanda to move forward unapologetically—guided by love, joy, gratitude, peace, and grace.
Building a Holistic Healing Practice
Today, Shanda is fully embracing her role as a spiritual entrepreneur in the holistic arts. Inspired by her natural gift for supporting others through times of uncertainty, she has begun building her own private practice rooted in service, compassion, and divine fulfillment.
Her offerings include:
- - Sound healing sessions
- - Crystal healing sessions
- - Mindfulness and meditation experiences
- - Divination readings, including tarot, oracle, and mediumship
“I find joy, happiness, and divine fulfillment in helping others,” Shanda shares. The insight and foundational skills she gained at SWIHA continue to support and strengthen every service she provides.
Lessons That Transcend the Classroom
Among the many lessons Shanda gained during her time at SWIHA, one stands above the rest: honoring the uniqueness of each individual spiritual path.
“No two paths are the same,” she explains. “We are all aligned to our own soul’s purpose, and it’s important to respect each other’s journey and help one another with dignity and grace.”
This philosophy, she believes, reflects the heart of SWIHA itself—a community rooted in mutual respect, compassion, and collective growth.
Teachers, Classes, and Lasting Impact
When asked about her most impactful teachers, Shanda doesn’t single out just one. Instead, she expresses gratitude for all of her instructors, acknowledging the unique and positive ways each contributed to her journey.
Two classes in particular left a lasting imprint: Yoga Nidra and GRIT, both of which offered her new ways of understanding and shifting the relationship between body and mind.
Words of Wisdom for Future Students
For those considering SWIHA, Shanda’s advice is simple yet powerful:
“Make the call. Enroll in the program that spiritually draws you in, and commit to challenging yourself. Over the next eight months, allow yourself to learn, teach, inspire, and be inspired.”
She believes that commitment—paired with openness—can lead to deeply meaningful and life-changing transformation.
A Journey Rooted in Gratitude
At her core, Shanda describes herself as a grateful human being—never perfect, yet deeply committed to growth. Her intention is clear: to improve her own spiritual well-being while helping uplift the spiritual health of others along the way.
As she continues her education, builds her business, and welcomes support from SWIHA Success Coaches in business, marketing, and social media, Shanda stands as a beautiful example of what’s possible when faith, intention, and education align.
Her journey reminds us that sometimes, all it takes is one brave phone call to change the direction of a life.
