Meet Marie
"Each moment invites us to recognize each part of our being and love ourselves beyond limits and without conditions. We are always living, so choose to live aligned."
~Marie Kirkland
Dear Kindred Spirit,
I believe life invites us, again and again, to pause — to breathe — to remember who we are and the life we are here to live. My own journey into intentional living began not from ease, but from a season of profound loss, illness, and burnout. It was there, in the stillness of a sacred pause, that I found my way home to the person I was becoming.
Through that pause, I discovered what I now call the Five Pathways of Intentional Living: Spirituality, Self-Care, Soul Care, Self-Reflection, and Slower Living. These pathways have since become the heartbeat of my work — guiding others, as they have guided me, into a life lived with purpose, grace, and renewal.
My life’s path has been a rich tapestry of service, leadership, and learning. I served 20 years in the U.S. Army before retiring and stepping into my calling as an ordained minister and spiritual director. I’ve walked in spaces of spiritual leadership, business strategy, metaphysical study, and mindful mentoring — each one deepening my understanding of resilience, compassion, and the human spirit.
Along the way, I’ve been blessed to study at the Holmes Institute School of Consciousness Studies, the Centers for Spiritual Living School of Spiritual Leadership, the Jack Welch Management Institute, the Emerson Theological Institute, and Unified Mindfulness. I founded the Living Aligned Focus Ministry and served as its spiritual director for six years, walking alongside those seeking alignment and wholeness.
Today, through Intentional Life Matters, I share the work that is closest to my heart — offering mentoring, courses, workshops, and retreats that help spiritual leaders, caregivers, and helping professionals care for themselves as deeply as they care for others. My intention is simple: to help you live the fullness of your life, fulfilling the promise of a life well-lived.
My writing can be found on the Intentional Life Matters newsletter on Substack and in the anthology Speaking Your Truth: Courageous Stories from Inspiring Women (Vol. 2). I also host the Intentional Life Matters podcast, where I share reflections, practices, and conversations to inspire a slower, more intentional way of being.
Wherever you are in your journey, know that you are not alone. The path forward begins with a single pause.
Reflections
What People Are Saying
Rev. Faith Woods
“Rev. Marie is someone who sees the best in me and others… She creates safe spaces with a sense of gentleness and kindness. She lives the meaning of Eunoia and Meraki. She has found a way to live her life that fits her body, mind and soul and unapologetically shares it. She does her work to encourage others to find their way—inviting them to use anything useful for their personal needs and interests.”
Rev. Vanecia Wills-Leufroy
“Rev. Marie is a spiritual advocate and guide for inner growth.”
Rev. Christina Jones
“Rev. Marie is living and being intentional. In her pain, she shares survival and thriving tools with others. Living as human beings, we go through the valley. She is showing people there is a way out. No matter what, we can save our own lives. Many other people would have walked away from their life's mission and purpose. She rises every morning with focus and clarity… She is teaching others by being an example to others by writing your book, playing the guitar and being divinely present. I am honored and humbled to be in her presence.”
Rev. Jerry Hobby
“Marie embodies the essence of intentional living, serving as a powerful force for good in the world. Her diverse experience spanning business, academics and spiritual growth has touched countless lives, inspiring a deep sense of self-appreciation and personal worth. By skillfully aligning these elements, Marie empowers individuals to recognize their inherent value and step confidently into their potential. Her work leaves a lasting impact, fostering transformation and growth in everyone she meets.”
Rev. Rodney Gittens
“Rev. Marie is an explorer of possibilities and a spiritually minded educator of spiritual principles and technology.”
Rev. Tom Pitman
“Rev. Marie is a quiet inspiration and a joyous expression of the Divine Presence and Spirit of the Universe. She steadfastly nurtures and encourages the members of her circle of friends and colleagues with dignity and compassion.”
Reflections
What People Are Saying
“Reflections are the quiet echoes of our soul’s journey.” ~ Marie Kirkland
Rev. Jerry Hobby
“Marie embodies the essence of intentional living, serving as a powerful force for good in the world. Her diverse experience spanning business, academics and spiritual growth has touched countless lives, inspiring a deep sense of self-appreciation and personal worth. By skillfully aligning these elements, Marie empowers individuals to recognize their inherent value and step confidently into their potential. Her work leaves a lasting impact, fostering transformation and growth in everyone she meets.”
Rev. Rodney Gittens
“Rev. Marie is an explorer of possibilities and a spiritually minded educator of spiritual principles and technology.”
Rev. Tom Pitman
“Rev. Marie is a quiet inspiration and a joyous expression of the Divine Presence and Spirit of the Universe. She steadfastly nurtures and encourages the members of her circle of friends and colleagues with dignity and compassion.”
Rev. Faith Woods
“Rev. Marie is someone who sees the best in me and others… She creates safe spaces with a sense of gentleness and kindness. She lives the meaning of Eunoia and Meraki. She has found a way to live her life that fits her body, mind and soul and unapologetically shares it. She does her work to encourage others to find their way—inviting them to use anything useful for their personal needs and interests.”
Rev. Vanecia Wills-Leufroy
“Rev. Marie is a spiritual advocate and guide for inner growth.”
Rev. Christina Jones
“Rev. Marie is living and being intentional. In her pain, she shares survival and thriving tools with others. Living as human beings, we go through the valley. She is showing people there is a way out. No matter what, we can save our own lives. Many other people would have walked away from their life's mission and purpose. She rises every morning with focus and clarity… She is teaching others by being an example to others by writing your book, playing the guitar and being divinely present. I am honored and humbled to be in her presence.”
Benefits
Why Dance With Us
Our experienced ballet instructors bring passion and expertise in classical and contemporary ballet, offering personalized guidance to help you grow with confidence and artistry.
Expert Instructors
Learn from professional ballet dancers who offer personalized guidance to support your growth.
Stress Relief
Enjoy the freedom of movement and rhythm to release tension and boost emotional well-being.
Creative Expression
Experience the joy of storytelling through ballet dance, building both physical and artistic skills.
Flexible Class Options
Pick from various ballet styles and class times that suit your schedule and passion.
Improved Flexibilty
Enhance your strength, posture, and flexibility through engaging, movement-focused routines.
Supportive Community
Be part of a vibrant ballet community that encourages, motivates, and grows together.
Join us
Open hours
Monday to Friday
18:00 – 23:00
Laura louis
Helping you shine online with bold
content and eye-catching visuals.
Fiona york
Elevating your dance presence
through creative content.
Be Strong
Dance Gracefully.
Unleash your confidence with
powerful movement and performance.
Mentors
Meet Our Expert Instructors
Our experienced ballet instructors bring passion and expertise in various styles, offering personalized guidance to help you grow with confidence and artistry.
Laura Louis
Contemporary Ballet Specialists
Jessica James
Performance & Stage Presence Mentor
Chloe May
Choreography & Technique Coach
Wellness
Improve Your Life
Ballet is a powerful form of self-expression and transformation. Through movement, we connect with our body, emotions, and inner rhythm—cultivating confidence, joy, and balance in every part of life.
—T.K.V. Desikachar
Togetherness
Strength in Community
Join a vibrant and supportive community of ballet dancers who share your passion for movement and creativity. Our dance community fosters connection and growth.
"Pause. Breathe. Live what matters."
~ Marie Kirkland
Join me on the path of intentional living.
Receive mindful insights, reflections, and invitations to live what matters most.
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