Daily Inspiration: Meet Nika Gueci

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nika Gueci.

Hi Nika, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Dr. Nika Gueci: Yoga, Mindfulness & Well-Being Leader

Born and bred in New York, my mother introduced me to the transformative world of yoga. This early foundation ignited a passion that intertwined with various spiritual traditions. In 2013, I became a certified yoga instructor, and since then, my classes have been a haven of non-judgment, inviting everyone to embrace the present moment. While I cherish the ancient art of yoga and have had the privilege of attending retreats at the Omega Institute, Kripalu Center, and Sivananda Ashram, I’ve also learned to balance my fiery “pitta dosha” nature. This equilibrium comes from immersing myself in nature, mindfully baking for my wonderful husband, and caring for my 3 rescue dogs. Beyond the mat, I’ve been fortunate to blend my passion for mindfulness with my professional endeavors.

As the Executive Director at Arizona State University’s Center for Mindfulness, Compassion, and Resilience under the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, I’ve worked diligently to bridge individual transformation with broader community resilience. As a Senior Fellow of ASU’s Learning Enterprise, I am involved in crafting personal development solutions for individuals to gain the tools and space to flourish.

I was recognized as one of the top 50 women leaders in Arizona, and you caught me on platforms like AZ3TV, NPR, and ASU News or saw me engaging audiences as a keynote speaker at major events. Promoting our innate capacity for well-being has become second nature to me. I’m deeply involved in shaping mental health initiatives in Arizona, with a special focus on fostering connections and reducing feelings of loneliness.

Academically, my journey has been diverse and enriching. I hold an EdD in Educational Leadership and Innovation from ASU, an MA in Communication from New Mexico State University, and a BA in Russian from Columbia University. Throughout my life, I have fostered collaborations that span disciplines and boundaries. I aim for a world where compassion and mindfulness are not just a practice but a way of life deeply rooted in every interaction, decision, and relationship.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome? Has it been a smooth road?
Only sometimes. Throughout my journey of self-awareness and growth, I’ve faced challenges and obstacles. In the early stages of my professional life, I was often met with societal perceptions and expectations, particularly within the hustle culture of busyness that we have all grown accustomed to. Comments hinting that women should emulate “male” behavior to succeed or that my leadership style lacked merit would echo in my mind. These initial years felt like a continuous performance on a stage, where I attempted to conform to workplace standards that didn’t resonate with my identity. However, as I delved deeper into self-reflection, these external voices grew fainter. Questions about my genuine desires, the true measurement of my worth, and my values surfaced. This introspective journey and the support of incredible mentors revealed that much of my effort had been channeled into fitting molds that weren’t truly reflective of who I was. Understanding myself better became a catalyst for change. I began to embrace my authentic self and lead from a place of strength and genuineness. This transformation brought me personal contentment and allowed me to approach my work with renewed purpose. Now, my career beautifully intertwines with my values. One of my most profound missions is to uplift and empower other women, helping them find their authentic voice in a world that often tries to define it for them. While I am grateful for a career that resonates with my true self, I also acknowledge and appreciate the hurdles that have shaped me and continue to shape others who identify as female. These challenges and the resilience they’ve fostered are integral chapters in my story.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk about work. What should we know about your work?
As a dedicated yoga and meditation instructor, my passion is offering transformative classes and workshops that bridge the wisdom of ancient practices with contemporary needs. My sessions offer more than poses — they dive deeply into self-awareness, healing, and growth. Over the years, these practices have been my anchor and now form the foundation of my teachings. In addition to my work, my job at Arizona State University’s Center for Mindfulness, Compassion, and Resilience under the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation has allowed me to further integrate and expand upon these concepts, creating a holistic model that encourages an all-encompassing approach to well-being. I educate students and learners at all levels on resilience, compassion, and mindfulness. This unique blend of academic insight and personal practice sets my offerings apart. At the core of it all is a mission to lead authentically and empower individuals to find their inner strength and tranquility.

Before we go, can you talk to us about how people can work, collaborate, or support you?

Expansive Model of Mindfulness (EMM) Workshop: Created with Tiara Cash, the EMM is a framework that extends the concept of mindfulness beyond individual self-care to societal interactions. The workshop explores:

• Mindfulness presentations, workshops, or yoga sessions: I provide presentations and workshops for a variety of different audiences, and I teach at Upward Light Healing in Downtown Mesa.
• To make a difference in the world, give to causes you believe in. I volunteer with Moseley’s Mutts Oasis. There are many ways to give what you can, whether time, money, or expertise.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nikagueci.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nika-gueci-edd-ma-366568129/