Meet Susan Mondi Bowen: Founder of Thrive Yoga

Susan Mondi Bowen

Wellness Entrepreneur & Founder of Thrive Yoga

Susan Mondi Bowen launched Thrive Yoga in 2005, becoming a wellness entrepreneur dedicated to enhancing physical and mental health through integrated wellness programs. Inspired by her mentors and a personal commitment to yoga, fitness, and nutritional practices, Susan developed Thrive Yoga into a thriving center that has served over 10,000 clients in the community for nearly 25 years. Susan’s entrepreneurship journey began with a seed grant from the StartRight! Women’s Business Plan Competition, and she has continued to grow her wellness business with an innovative approach, blending traditional practices with cutting-edge wellness research.

Thrive Yoga has offered more than 20,000 yoga classes, workshops, retreats, and events, continually evolving to meet the wellness needs of its clients. Recognized as a Maryland business leader, Susan has earned awards in leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service from the City of Rockville and Rockville Economic Development, Inc. (REDI). She was also a runner-up for Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017, awarded by the Maryland Women’s Business Center. Susan’s journey in creating Thrive Yoga has been highlighted in The Washington Post, The Gazette, WUSA News, and other media outlets.

Thrive Yoga Academy & Yoga Teacher Training

Since 2009, Thrive Yoga Academy has graduated over 650 yoga instructors who now teach worldwide. Susan, a Lead Instructor with her team of highly experienced instructors, has crafted a curriculum that incorporates diverse yoga lineages and methodologies. Thrive Yoga proudly offers BIPOC scholarships to promote yoga within diverse communities. Locally, Thrive-certified teachers are integral members of numerous studios and wellness centers.

Qualifications & Program Development Highlights

Susan Mondi Bowen (E-RYT500, YACEP, Certified Sound Healer, Certified Integrative Reflexologist, Lifestyle & Wellness Coaching, Harvard Medical School Executive Education) has an extensive background in wellness program development, having created and led successful initiatives that integrate yoga, fitness, and lifestyle wellness with scientific and philosophical foundations. Her notable projects include:

• SMB Longevity: A program dedicated to enhancing healthspan and longevity through targeted practices and wellness education.
• Foundational & Advanced Yoga Teacher Trainings: Comprehensive trainings that have certified hundreds of instructors worldwide.
• Fitness Jumpstart & Bootcamp Programs: Fitness programs that inspire a balanced, active lifestyle for participants at any fitness level.
• Meditation & Breathwork: Structured courses focused on mindfulness, stress reduction, and breath control techniques.
• 27 Days to Break a Habit: A transformative program helping individuals overcome unhealthy habits through practical steps and support.
• Yoga University: An in-depth yoga education program integrating various methodologies and philosophies.
• De-Stress for Leadership: A wellness initiative designed to help leaders manage stress effectively for better performance and well-being.

Susan completed Harvard Medical School Executive Education on Lifestyle Wellness Coaching in November 2024, enhancing her expertise in guiding clients through impactful health and wellness transformations.

Instructor, Longevity Specialist & Public Speaker

In her classes, Susan brings a unique blend of anatomy-based instruction, self-awareness, and practical tips for personal growth, often infused with humor. Her teaching style emphasizes a personalized approach, helping each student deepen their practice through tailored guidance. As a Longevity Specialist, Susan advises on techniques and lifestyle changes that not only improve health today but can enhance healthspan and lifespan.

As a sought-after public speaker and corporate wellness trainer, Susan shares her expertise on using stress reduction as a tool to foster collaboration and creativity in professional settings. Her talks and workshops provide actionable insights on shifting from stress to a joyful, productive mindset, making her a valued resource in both wellness and corporate environments.