The Faces Behind the Storefront: Sandra Roshonda Thomas of Culpeper Yoga Shala and Spa

We are proud to spotlight Sandra Roshonda Thomas, owner of Culpeper Yoga Shala and Spa a woman whose strength, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit have helped shape one of Culpeper’s most unique wellness spaces. Sandra’s journey to business ownership wasn’t linear but it was intentional.

A Return to Entrepreneurship

Sandra has owned businesses before, but when she first moved to Culpeper, she made the decision to simply work and not take on anything extra. For three years, she did just that. Then life shifted. After being let go by a local business owner, she saw the moment as an opportunity rather than a setback. “I decided that I needed to go back into business for myself again,” she shared. Yoga had always been something she loved deeply. That passion, paired with her entrepreneurial background, became the foundation for what would become Culpeper Yoga Shala and Spa.

Creating What Was Missing

Sandra recognized something important in the local wellness landscape: yoga and sauna-based compression therapy weren’t being offered together in Culpeper. She believed the two needed to coexist and that belief became the spark behind her business model. Rather than replicate what already existed, she built something complementary and distinct. The result is a space where physical wellness, recovery, and mindfulness come together under one roof.

Navigating Adversity with Strength

Like many small business owners, Sandra faced significant early challenges. Marketing proved difficult, and her first location came with a challenging landlord situation. On top of that, she was mobilized by the military and had to relocate temporarily. Instead of closing doors, she pivoted. Partnering with a new building owner allowed her to continue growing the business. Throughout each obstacle, she found herself supported by strong women willing to collaborate and stand beside her. That community of support became one of her greatest assets.

Leadership Forged in Experience

As the oldest of four brothers, a female officer in the military, and a business owner, Sandra has grown accustomed to environments where she had to stand firm. She has learned not to cower in the face of adversity and to advocate for herself and her vision. While she has encountered individuals who underestimated her, and has also been mentored by strong leaders including a three-star general who encouraged her to establish her LLC and branch Culpeper Yoga Shala and Spa from her existing Thomas Strategy Consulting business.

Her yoga mentor has also played a pivotal role, supporting her through military moves, motherhood, and professional growth. Together those influences have shaped a leadership style rooted in confidence, perseverance, and gratitude.

A Business That Thrives Even in Absence

One of Sandra’s proudest accomplishments is maintaining a profitable business, even while being mobilized and stationed in Texas since October. Her instructors have stepped up continuing yoga teacher training, classes, and Pilates sessions in her absence. Their loyalty and commitment speak to the culture she has built. “I appreciate them more than they know,” she shared, reflecting on the team that has stood by her through change.

Investing in Community

Culpeper Yoga Shala and Spa actively partners with Culpeper Renaissance for local events and participates in community programming whenever possible. Sandra hopes to expand “Yoga in the Park” at Yowell Meadow Park this summer and is working with local businesses to bring yoga classes directly into their spaces. Her vision is growth not just for her studio, but for wellness accessibility across the community.

The Women Who Shaped Her

Sandra credits many women for influencing her journey, including her high school English teacher, Holly Hollified, who has remained a steady mentor and friend since graduation. She also reflects on Marilyn, an accomplished businesswoman who taught her both business acumen and how to soften her approach. In addition to longtime mentors, she is surrounded by women colleagues and friends who support her personally and professionally, a network she deeply values.

Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs

Her advice for women considering starting a business in a small town is honest and direct: “It’s tough so make sure you are ready for a ride. Make sure you get a mentor and stick with the advice that they give you.” Entrepreneurship, she emphasizes, requires resilience and trusted guidance.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Sandra is excited about upcoming partnerships, trainings, retreats, and the graduation of her first yoga teacher trainees in June 2026. When she is home with her children, you can often find her enjoying local favorites like Grill 309 and Grass Rootes continuing to support the community she serves.

We celebrate Sandra Roshonda Thomas a business owner, military officer, mentor, and community builder whose strength and vision continue to elevate wellness in Culpeper.