Movement with Mind and Heart
Souls in Training is a journey toward balance rooted in culture and science.
Mission Statement
Souls in Training bridges research and real-life practice to promote brain health through inclusive physical activity programs, culturally tailored mindfulness, and community engagement.
Research & Innovation
Explore the latest mindfulness research and innovative practices that benefit our community. Stay informed and inspired on the journey to self-discovery.
Free Classes
Join our inclusive mindful movement classes designed for all levels. Experience the power of moving, breathing, and healing together in a supportive environment.
Brain Health + Activity
Discover how yoga, mindfulness, and physical activity can strengthen the brain and uplift the spirit. Cuerpo Activo, Mente Sana.
RESPIRA+
A culturally grounded mindfulness and yoga program for Latina youth. Learn how our research is reshaping mental wellness through community-informed design.
How We Guide Transformation
Meet Dr. Yuliana Soto
Hola, I’m Yuliana — a movement researcher, educator, and wellness advocate passionate about bridging science and community care. I’m a first-generation Latina and postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Illinois Chicago, where I study the mechanisms linking mindfulness, physical activity, and brain health.
I founded Souls in Training to create a space where healing, science, and culture come together. Through community classes, youth-centered programs, and digital content, I share evidence-based practices in mindfulness and movement that support emotional well-being, self-regulation, and long-term health.
My academic research journey began over a decade ago and culminated in a PhD in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign .My research explores how simple, mindful movements can reduce stress, improve focus, and promote brain health across the lifespan — especially among adolescents and communities historically excluded from wellness initiatives.
I believe everyone deserves the right to move, breathe, and thrive.
Whether you're showing up for a free class, reading one of my blog posts, or exploring new wellness habits, I hope you feel welcomed, supported, and seen.
Let’s move toward healing, together.
Bienvenidos 💛
Current Work
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Postdoctoral Research Fellow at UIC Department of Medicine
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Creator of RESPIRA+ — a mindfulness-based physical activity program for Latina youth
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Researcher on brain health and behavior change
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Advocate for inclusive, evidence-based wellness education
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Link tree to CV and scholarly work: https://linktr.ee/phdsoto
“When you are aware of your sorrow, your pleasure, your anger, your violence, and you observe without condemnation, then out of that observation comes intelligence.”
Words of Wisdom by Jiddu Krishnamurti