Maria Santoferraro
Yoga Teacher
Joy Spreader
Storyteller
Welcome to the
Daily Downward Dog
A Little Yoga. A Little Wisdom. A Whole Lot of Joy!
Hi, I’m Maria Santoferraro—yoga teacher, joy spreader, storyteller, world traveler, and a big believer in the power of a good laugh and a little inner peace.
For more than 15 years, the Daily Downward Dog has been my home for sharing yoga, inspiration, and the occasional enthusiastic WOO HOO!
Life has taken me on quite an adventure since I started this blog. I’ve taught yoga around the world, led retreats, traveled solo, and eventually traded my life in Ohio for sunshine and a new beginning in Mexico.
Through it all, I’ve discovered that some of life’s greatest lessons come when we turn inward, trust our own wisdom, and embrace the courage to live authentically.
And that’s what I’m excited to keep sharing with you.
My Next Chapter: Stories, Meditation & a Little More Joy
I’ve found a new home for my writing and guided meditations on Substack, where my publication is called We’re All Just Here to Help.
There you’ll find personal stories, reflections, and practices to inspire more peace, joy, and freedom in everyday life.
I’m especially passionate about helping women reconnect with their inner light, trust their own wisdom, and reclaim their personal power. But everyone is welcome!
I’d love for you to join me as I continue sharing the lessons, adventures, and occasional hilarious moments life brings my way.
Join Me on A Yoga Retreat
One of my favorite ways to share yoga is by bringing people together in beautiful places to connect, relax, laugh, and rediscover their joy.
My upcoming Women of Wisdom retreat in Mexico offers an opportunity to step away from everyday life and reconnect with yourself in paradise.
Explore My Upcoming Retreats – February 21-27, 2027 and February 28 – March 6, 2027 at Mahai in Mahahual, Mexico
On-Demand Video Library
Practice Yoga With Me
Looking for a little time on your mat?
My collection of recorded yoga classes offers a variety of practices you can enjoy from the comfort of your home, whenever you need a little movement, relaxation, or inspiration.
Explore the Daily Downward Dog Blog
The Daily Downward Dog began in 2010, and over the years I’ve written more than 400 articles about yoga, mindfulness, life lessons, and finding joy along the way.
They’re all still here, waiting for you to explore!
Maria incorporates uplifting messages, playful class themes, the spiritual teachings of yoga, laughter, smiles, and at least one very enthusiastic “Woo hoooo!” into her classes.
About Maria
Maria has turned to the restorative power of yoga several times in her life. Initially, the practice of yoga helped Maria find physical relief from the chronic pain of scoliosis, diagnosed in her teens. Later in her life, Maria turned to yoga again after extreme stress from a consuming career that took a toll on her body and mind. Maria discovered that through the physical and spiritual healing of yoga and meditation she was finally able to leave her aching back and stress behind. Yoga has brought Maria better health, a peaceful soul, and a satisfying, balanced way of living that eventually led her to her life’s true calling. Maria became a yoga teacher in 2009. Read the rest of my story….
Let’s Stay Connected
Although my writing has moved to Substack, the spirit of the Daily Downward Dog hasn’t changed.
I’m still spreading joy, sharing stories, exploring life’s mysteries, and encouraging you to smile and be happy.
I hope you’ll join me for the next chapter.
Subscribe to My Substack — It’s Free!
With love and gratitude,
Maria