Meet Christina Shaneyfelt

We had the good fortune of connecting with Christina Shaneyfelt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christina, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
This business is a true reflection of my lifestyle, it’s built around my passion for movement, human connection and helping people feel good from the inside out. I grew up in a household that valued a holistic touch, but I pursued a traditional medical path through university and into my career. For a long time I had this internal conflict with how to merge my love for science with a deep belief in the power of holistic health. It wasn’t until I discovered Pilates that everything came together. Pilates taught me that movement is more than just physical, it’s healing, empowering and transformative. I fell in love with the principles, but as I started attending studios in Miami, I noticed something missing. There weren’t enough spaces that encouraged people to care for their mind, body, and spirit. Miami is a vibrant city, but it can sometimes feel isolating beneath the surface. I’m creating a space where people don’t just come to workout, they come to heal, to connect, to feel safe, strong, confident and truly seen. Miami has so much untapped potential in the wellness space and I’m excited about bringing a fresh, authentic and heart centered approach to it. People deserve to feel good, not just for an hour during a workout, but it their lives as a whole. It starts by building a space where true connection thrives and where science meets soul.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Xtina Wellness was born out of the belief that true health goes far beyond just the physical. I wanted to create a space that helps people feel healthy in every aspect. We live in a world that emphasizes the physical, but I believe mental resilience, community and intentional living are just as important. My goal is to teach people habits they can carry into their daily lives, whether that’s learning how to push through a tough workout, prioritizing recovery, or discovering the power of finding a supportive community.

I want people to feel new, like stepping into the best version of themselves and helping them realize how limitless life can be. Whether someone is brand new to wellness or has their routine, this space is for everyone. It’s inclusive, safe and made to support people wherever they are in their journey.

Getting here hasn’t been easy but nothing worth it is, right? In the beginning you’re juggling 15 roles at once, being a solo entrepreneur means you’re doing the admin, marketing, financing, everything. I don’t have many moments of doubt, but if I do I remind myself no one else out there is doing what I’m doing, in the way I’m doing it. I’ve already seen the impact through the events I’ve hosted and that confirms I’m on the right path.

If I could tell someone else who’s starting something similar it would be: Get a mentor and do it! The world is massive. You don’t know what’s possible until you try, and I’d rather give something my all than live wondering “what if.”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When my friends visit Miami I like to curate an experience that embodies Miami’s blend of wellness, culture and culinary delights. We’d start the day at Suarez Bakery which has the best empanadas and coffee in Miami. For relaxation, we’d enjoy a Wet Spa Ritual at the Tierra Santa Healing House within the Faena Hotel. It’s a holistic treatment that combines ancient South American healing techniques with modern wellness practices. Post-spa, we’d walk the Miami boardwalk to South Pointe allowing us to enjoy the ocean breeze and scenic views. A visit to Joe’s Stone Crab is a must, especially for the iconic key lime pie. Evenings are for rhythm and we’d attend a salsa class and dance to live music at Ball and Chain. Saturday’s are perfect for a Pilates class in the morning then exploring the Coconut Grove Farmers Market, where the hummus is a local favorite. We can’t skip La Picaña Grill because they have Picaña cachapas that never disappoint. To watch the sunset and relax we’d hop on the boat and dock at Rusty Pelican for the beautiful views of Key Biscayne. I also enjoy hosting big dinners at my house especially when my friends come to visit to catch up and have a nice home cooked meal.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout goes to a combination of my upbringing, my career experiences, my incredible friends, my mentors and that inner voice that always pushes me to keep going even when I have no idea where I’m headed.

I’m deeply grateful to have been raised in a household where wellness was a way of life. Clean eating and movement was woven into my daily reality from a young age, shaping the foundation for everything I believe in today. I’m also thankful for my decision to pursue a medical career starting at 18 years old working in a level 2 trauma center and later transitioning into clinical research. These experiences sharpened my ability to think critically, act under pressure, and most importantly to care for people on a deeper level. I’m also thankful to my self for leaving my home state, knowing in my heart that I needed to create a new environment where I could truly grow. Moving to Miami I’ve truly found home and inspiration.

I’m endlessly grateful for my friends who have been my unwavering support system, my sounding boards and my constant reminders that I’m capable of anything and everything.

Now, as I step fully into the world of entrepreneurship, I’m profoundly thankful for my mentors Dan Jacobson, Maria Cifuentes Marrero and Manuel Garcia. They have poured their wisdom, offered guidance and believed in me from the beginning.

Website: https://xtinawellness.com/

Instagram: Xtinapilates