From Combat to Calm: Mike Keighley’s Journey Through Trauma-Informed Yoga

Michael Keighley, Chief Yoga Officer of Archangel Yoga and former Army helicopter pilot, shares a powerful and deeply personal journey from war zones to wellness. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Michael found his way to Maine through the University of Maine ROTC program. He served more than eight years in the military, including deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. Struggling with PTSD and disconnection after his military service, Michael discovered yoga as a lifeline—eventually dedicating his life to teaching trauma-informed yoga to veterans, first responders, and underserved communities. Now based in Augusta, Maine, Michael’s work centers on restoring connection, identity, and purpose through movement, breath, and self-compassion. His yoga teaching experiences—from the Kennebec County Jail to the Travis Mills Foundation—highlight the healing power of choice and community. Join our conversation with Michael Keighley today on Radio Maine—and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more stories that celebrate creativity and the human spirit!