Even as a child, Kathryn Thomas knew she wanted to be a helicopter pilot.
After watching a helicopter demonstration at 11, her dreams were set in motion. Thomas earned her wings of gold in 2009, certifying her as a U.S. naval aviator.
But while on deployment, Thomas broke her ankle and later suffered complications. She was told she’d never fly again.
The experience of a long recovery and exit from the Navy left Thomas depressed and anxious. She turned to yoga.
So much of her identity was wrapped up in her military career. Practicing yoga helped Thomas find some relief and a sense of purpose after life in the Navy.
“I started to practice yoga, and that’s really what changed my outcome because I was able to find myself again on my mat,” she said.
