About Mariela

Mariela Andersen, a Colombian adoptee raised in the United States, recounts her heartfelt journey of reuniting with her biological family in her book Home Sweet Casa: A Journey to the Universal Heart. Through the twists and turns of exploring her birth country and connecting with those who share her DNA, Mariela uncovered profound revelations about herself and life itself. Now, she finds joy in sharing her story with others, not only to shed light on the adoptee experience but also to inspire readers to challenge their own perceptions and embark on a journey of self-discovery.

For over ten years, Mariela has worked with children through education, mindfulness, and creativity — interpreting for Deaf students, teaching yoga and facilitating art and movement sessions in shelters and community spaces. She’s a certified children’s yoga instructor and author of the children’s book Squirrel’s Big Question, which mirrors her own journey of adoption and self-discovery, inviting young readers to explore identity, belonging, and the courage to be themselves. Her work has also taken her abroad, including to Ethiopia and the Mexican–Arizona border, where she supported children in finding peace, confidence, and self-expression through connection and play.

Today, Mariela channels all of these experiences into guiding others — both children and adults — back to their center. Combining mindfulness, presence, and spiritual insight, she helps people reconnect with their inner wisdom and rediscover the wholeness that has always been within them.