My name is Puanani Calvillo, MAT, NASM-CPT

I am a spiritual director who companions at the intersection of spirituality and movement such as exercise, dance, & primal flow. I embody qualities that are intuitive, nurturing, integrated and intentional. In addition to my education and lived experiences, my practices are profoundly shaped by the collective wisdom of my Sāmoan-Pilipina ancestors and informed by Mothering as social justice. My work centers the well-being (mind, body, & spirit) of marginalized communities.

Spiritual Direction

In one-on-one and group sessions, I accompany seekers by listening contemplatively and holding space for them to be present, reflect, imagine, wonder or deepen their connection to sacred self & the Divine. I use embodied practices as a mode of listening to support exploration and meaning making.

Accompanying with Movement

Our bodies hold wisdom, both from our own lived experiences and those of our ancestors. I meet you where you are at in your body & spiritual journey. I may offer dance, primal flow, or other movements as a mode to listen together.

Strength training can serve as a deep spiritual practice. The repetitive and deliberate actions inherent in lifting and body weight exercises create a rhythmic focus akin to meditation, drawing attention to breath, bodily sensations, and the present moment. This approach to strength training invites individuals to reconnect with their sacred selves, the Divine, and cultivate profound inner resilience.

Education & Experience

I have a Master's Degree in Teaching, graduated from Still Harbor Spiritual Direction Program, received my certification in personal training from the National Academy of Sports Medicine and specialization in Kettlebell fundamentals. Aside from my own practice, I am a co-educator/facilitator/cohort leader at Liberated Together Spiritual Direction School.

I am a former elementary school teacher, mentor and ministry leader. For more than 10 years I accompanied families alongside my partner, leading El Puente Community Church in Santa Ana, CA.

“In collectivist cultures, our elders told us long ago that we carry the stories of our communities in our bodies.”

-Cindy S. Lee