When you mention yoga in Chattanooga, many people will ask, do you know Michelle Dunn-Loveless? Despite not being from Chatt originally, Michelle (she/her/they/them) has woven herself into the fabric of this community, launching her own business and also helping so many others get in touch with their intuition through her extensive kundalini yoga practice.
We caught up with Michelle for International Women’s Month to uplift her as she does for so many others.
Michelle, tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a transplant from Flint, Michigan, and I’ve been living in the Chattanooga area since 2007. My journey here began with a career in public education, where I worked as an educator, helping to shape young minds and advocate for a more inclusive learning environment. I’m also a child of a Deaf adult (CODA) and a Queer business owner, identities that have deeply shaped my perspective on communication, accessibility, and the power of authentic self-expression.
Now, I guide others on their spiritual wellness journeys through Outshine Yoga, offering mentoring, retreats, and healing practices that weave together Kundalini yoga, astrology, and inner child work. My work is rooted in creating space for transformation—whether through deep one-on-one guidance, community gatherings, or sacred rituals that reconnect people with their true essence. My passion is helping others step into their power, heal, and create a life that aligns with their true essence.
Beyond my work, I find joy in outdoor adventures, traveling, and exploring new places—especially when they blend wellness, nature, and a little bit of magic. Spending quality time with friends and family is something I deeply cherish, whether through shared experiences, deep conversations, or simple moments of connection. I love spontaneous moments that awaken my wild spirit—dancing, singing, and even letting out a cathartic scream can be pure medicine for the soul. When I need to unwind, I turn to ritual practices like oracle readings, journaling with the moon cycles, and connecting with the elements through ceremony and meditation. One of my favorite self-care rituals is soaking in a warm salt bath with candlelight and a good book—letting the world slow down for just a little while.
What is one thing you enjoy about living in the Tennessee Valley Area?
It’s taken me almost 17 years to find my groove in the Tennessee Valley, and in that time, I’ve lived so many different lives—educator, nonprofit leader, mother, empty nester, board member, and now, business owner. The best part of my journey here has been finding community. Over the past five years, I’ve finally found my people—the ones who love me unconditionally and show up in times of need.
Let’s not forget the incredible outdoor scene! There’s something truly special about the access to nature here—whether it’s hiking, waterfalls, or just the simple beauty of the changing seasons. And now, with Chattanooga growing and bursting at the seams with new ideas, cool people, and a thriving creative community, it feels like an exciting time to be here.
What is one thing you don’t enjoy about living in the Tennessee Valley Area?
One thing that weighs on me is knowing that I live in a Red Conservative State—a place where the government isn’t always welcoming to people like me or my trans partner. Being Queer in the South comes with challenges, no doubt. But that’s why I love the little blue bubble of Hamilton County, Chattanooga—there’s a sense of belonging here that makes it feel like home.
The work I do is my way of creating a ripple of goodness, a spark of change that will spread far beyond what we can see. That belief—knowing that love, healing, and authenticity can shift the energy of a place—makes it a little more bearable to stay and continue planting seeds of transformation.
What is one hope you have for 2025?
My biggest hope for 2025 is that love moves through our community in abundance. That we stop looking to the federal level of politics as our guiding light and instead, begin looking within ourselves. How can we show up for ourselves? How can we show up for our neighbors and our community in a deeper, more meaningful way?
When we tend to our own healing and well-being, we naturally extend that love outward. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation of being able to care for others. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, start small. Look within. Ask yourself: Where am I not nourishing myself? Where am I not nourishing those around me? When we start from within, we can move our words into action and create a stronger, more connected community.
When you think of existing as a woman in the LGBTQ+ community, what are some of your superpowers? What are some of the obstacles you’ve encountered?
As a Queer woman, my greatest superpower is creating a sense of grounding and safety for others. At least, that’s what people tell me. I’ve been told that my presence, my voice, and the way I hold space for others feels like a big mama bear hug—a place where people can breathe, release, and just be.
As for obstacles, I know this might sound surprising, but I haven’t faced many external ones when it comes to being a Queer woman. Maybe my ability to radiate love and acceptance has created a protective force field around me. Or maybe I’ve just been fortunate. The biggest obstacles I’ve faced have been the ones I’ve created myself—learning to trust my own path, healing old wounds, and stepping fully into my power without fear. Ha!
If you could say one thing to other women in our community, what would it be?
Stand firm in who you are. Shine bright in your radiance. Take good care of your energy. Your energy is your magnet—it attracts what you allow into your life. Clear it. Break free. Release the limiting beliefs that tell you to be quiet, to shrink, to make yourself small.
You are powerful beyond measure—own that. Stand strong in your values, in your truth, and in the beautiful, wild, messy magic that makes you you.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
If you’re looking for spiritual guidance or wellness support, let’s connect. I’d love to work with you—whether it’s playing outside, doing yoga, dancing, singing, or just having a real, soul-nourishing conversation. Check out my events and offerings at OutshineYoga.com.
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