Our Journey Through Wellness

Discover how SharedPlatform evolved from a simple idea into a transformative health platform that's changing lives across the United Kingdom

2018

2018 - The Beginning

From Personal Transformation to Shared Vision

Everything started when Elena Hartwell experienced a profound personal transformation through advanced yoga techniques during her recovery from a career-ending sports injury. What began as her own healing journey quickly became something much larger when friends and family witnessed the remarkable changes in her physical and mental wellbeing.

Elena partnered with Sarah Mitchell, a wellness coach who had been quietly revolutionizing how people approached holistic health in Southampton. Together, they recognized that traditional fitness approaches were missing something crucial – the deep integration of mind, body, and spirit that ancient yoga practices offered.

Founded SharedPlatform in Elena's converted garage studio in Southampton
Developed our signature integration methodology combining traditional yoga with modern wellness science
Started with just 12 dedicated students who became our first community ambassadors
Established our core philosophy: authentic transformation over quick fixes

2021

2021 - Digital Evolution

Adapting and Thriving Through Challenge

The global pandemic could have ended our journey, but instead it became our greatest catalyst for innovation. When we couldn't meet in person, we discovered that our teachings could reach people who had never been able to access advanced yoga instruction before – those in remote areas, mobility-limited individuals, and busy professionals who couldn't travel to studios.

This period taught us that genuine connection and transformation don't require physical proximity – they require authentic teaching, personalized guidance, and a community that truly supports each member's individual journey. We rebuilt everything from the ground up, focusing on creating meaningful digital experiences that felt as personal as one-on-one instruction.

Launched our comprehensive online platform serving students across the UK and beyond
Developed adaptive programs for different experience levels and physical capabilities
Created our mentorship system pairing advanced practitioners with newcomers
Expanded our team to include specialists in nutrition, meditation, and therapeutic movement
Reached over 2,500 active community members by year-end

2024

2024 - Recognition and Growth

Establishing Excellence in Wellness Education

Last year marked a turning point where our grassroots approach to wellness education gained recognition from healthcare professionals, corporate wellness programs, and educational institutions. We discovered that our emphasis on sustainable, long-term health practices aligned perfectly with what medical professionals were recommending to their patients.

What excites us most isn't the growth in numbers, but the depth of transformation we're witnessing. Students aren't just learning poses or techniques – they're fundamentally changing how they relate to their bodies, manage stress, and approach challenges in their daily lives. The stories we receive regularly remind us why we started this journey.

Established partnerships with three NHS wellness programs in the Southampton area
Launched our advanced instructor certification program with 45 graduates
Opened our purpose-built studio and retreat center in Woolston
Developed specialized programs for chronic pain management and stress reduction
Built a community of over 8,000 active practitioners

Looking Forward to 2025 and Beyond

Our vision extends far beyond yoga instruction or even wellness education. We're working to create a model for how communities can support individual transformation while building collective resilience. This year, we're launching our research partnership with Southampton University to study the long-term health impacts of integrated wellness practices.

But honestly? What drives us every day isn't research data or growth metrics – it's the moment when someone discovers they're capable of more than they ever imagined. Whether that's achieving a challenging pose they never thought possible, finding calm in the middle of a stressful situation, or simply feeling comfortable in their own body for the first time in years.