Welcome to UpSpiral.Life

UpSpiral.Life was born at the intersection of Taoism, manifestation & parts work.

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Michael has been a licensed acupuncturist since the late ’90s, and for over 25 years, he shared Taoist wisdom with his patients—wisdom that aligns perfectly with the principles behind the Law of Attraction. After decades of one-on-one work, he began to see patterns. He realized it was time to bring these insights into a structured program.

In 2024, he launched the first live group, and midyear, his wife Leela—an experienced psychotherapist and Internal Family Systems (IFS) teacher—joined as Clinical Director. Taoism and IFS both describe the mind as a system of parts organized around a higher self, so their collaboration felt organic and powerful.

​In 2025, they launched UpSpiral.Life as a digital community and learning portal. The live group and video-based curriculum blend manifestation, Taoism, and IFS into a uniquely embodied path of transformation. They’re not just teaching mindset—they’re guiding a return to your truest self, from the inside out.

Disclaimer: UpSpiral.Life is an independent business and is not affiliated with the IFS Institute. We acknowledge and credit Dr. Richard Schwartz as the founder of Internal Family Systems (IFS).

Meet the Team.

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Michael Hunter

Founder & CEO

As the founder of this vibrant community, I'm all about nurturing energetic connections & embracing the power of manifestation. With 25 years of experience as an acupuncturist, I intuitively navigate the realms of Old Magic.

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Leela Hunter

Clinical Director

Hi I’m Leela, I’m the Clinical Director at UpSpiral.life, where I help people release limiting beliefs and realign with their manifestations. 

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Meg LaFramboise

Chief Operations Director

As the Chief Operations Director, I ensure our UpSpiral.Life members and team are fully supported every step of the way. From streamlining operations to creating seamless experiences, my focus is on helping our community thrive. 

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Natalie
Smotkin

Enrollment Advisor

I’m a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, energy healer, and subconscious reprogramming coach with over a decade in functional health. I focus on shifting energy and subconscious patterns beyond talk therapy, blending science and spirit. I believe feeling good is your job, and healing is personalized. My work helps you discover and embody your unique internal algorithm to create a joyful, vision-driven life. Outside coaching, I enjoy nature, road trips, and cooking.

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Sophia
Efremova

Enrollment Advisor

As an Enrollment Advisor at UpSpiral, I help people overcome limiting beliefs and live authentically. After years fighting California wildfires, I now focus on personal development and parts work, guiding others toward transformation. I value intentional living: slow mornings, daily reading (The Way of Integrity, Atomic Habits, David Sedaris), handstands, and cooking traditional Russian recipes from my babushka.

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Tim
Fortescue

IFS Practitioner

As an experienced IFS practitioner, I help lead UpSpiral.Life reflection groups to guide you on your journey to inner healing and self-discovery in order to unlock your potential. 

Start your Journey