Introduction: Welcome to Women Want Wellness, where we believe true wellness begins with self-acceptance and embracing our unique journeys. As my birthday approaches, I reflect on the past year, 2022-2023, and the growth, challenges, and victories that have shaped me this past year. In this blog post, I want to share my personal story and accompany it with captivating new photos symbolizing my journey of self-discovery and self-love.
Uncharted Roads and Unforgettable Memories: A Travel Diary
Traveling: Last June, my husband, and kids embarked on a memorable trip to Citala, Jalisco, located a few hours outside the Guadalajara airport. It was a memorable visit as my husband and kids met my extended family for the first time. He was welcomed with a cabrito, which is a slow-roasted goat with spices, chiles, and herbs. I thought he would be intimidated by seeing a goat’s head in the pot, but to my surprise, he embraced it.
I deeply admire my husband, who is African-American, for his remarkable capacity to love humanity, regardless of cultural background. His enthusiasm about visiting my Latin family was exciting. Upon arriving in Citala and throughout our stay, he often attracted curious gazes from the locals in the rancho. Despite these initial moments of curiosity, he embraced the experience wholeheartedly.
During our time there, my husband enjoyed meeting my cousins and immersing himself in our family’s culture. The delicious food they prepared for us left a lasting impression. But what truly touched my heart was witnessing my husband’s immense kindness. He generously bought my cousin and his wife a new stove as an act of his compassion and selflessness.
The new environment provided a reality check for my kids. They were exposed to adobe-built homes, people riding horses, and even witnessing cattle roaming the streets. It was truly fascinating to witness my children reconnect with their roots, experiencing firsthand the way I grew up and the memories I cherished from my summer visits to Mexico.
We explored nearby cities like Chapala and visited the lake. In Ajijic, we walked the Malecon, and in Guadalajara, we visited the City Center, embracing new adventures and creating beautiful memories. I have never rented a car in Mexico before or driven in Mexico. From navigating to renting a car and exploring various places, we experienced the joy of discovery as a team.
Afterward, we flew to Puerta Vallarta, where we enjoyed staying at an all-inclusive resort and fully immersing ourselves in the region’s culture and beauty. Throughout my life, my parents always made it a point to bring us along on visits to our extended family in Mexico. However, it was only last year that my husband introduced me to the joys of exploring other towns and seeking new experiences, whether discovering different cultures, indulging in diverse cuisines, or embarking on exciting adventures. The lesson I learned from this was to revisit familiar places, step outside our comfort zone, and explore new territories, even if they are not far from our loved ones.
I witnessed and learned the acts of generosity from my husband and the joy of working as a team as we drove together on uncharted roads. I connected with my roots and ancestral cemetery. The trip taught me to be open to new experiences.
From GED to College Graduate: My Inspiring Educational Journey
Education: This academic year marked a significant milestone for me as a first-generation Latina college student. Juggling summer classes, full-time work, and being a mother to four children presented numerous challenges. I remained steadfast in my determination to complete my educational journey. The Spring of 2023 posed difficulties, as I took on a course load of four classes while managing my other commitments.
Among the most gratifying moments of this year was my graduation as a first-generation college student in May 2023. Please read the article available through the provided link, which speaks volumes about my journey. The article explains my remarkable transformation from a GED recipient to a college graduate and the obstacles I faced.
Taking the Leap: Job Resignation and Unexpected Opportunities
Job: After intentionally leaving my job last summer during the great resignation caused by the changes brought by COVID-19, I was rehired in September 2022 as an Event Coordinator at my former institution. Although the prospects seemed optimistic initially, I soon realized there were better fits. Despite feeling compelled to stay for financial stability and to finish my last semester of college, I made the difficult decision to resign in April 2023. Leaving that job opened unexpected doors, such as opportunities to talk about Shadow work-life coaching and juicing on a TV show Breaking the Silence, and be featured in an online Voyage magazine article. Quitting allowed the universe to create space for new possibilities. Check out the link for the show.
I learned The importance of alignment; I discovered that even if a job seems promising or offers financial stability, it may not fit you. I realized the significance of being in a role that aligns with my interests, passions, and values. I learned how to embrace unexpected opportunities; by leaving my previous job, unexpected doors opened for me.
Reclaiming Wellness: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Spirit
Well-being: Over the past year, I compromised my overall well-being as I neglected to prioritize self-care. Balancing full-time school with an unfulfilling job created a significant amount of stress and threw me off balance. The toll on my mind and body made it difficult to regain my previous wellness routine. Despite these challenges, I consciously chose not to let this setback hinder my ability to celebrate myself. Even though I wasn’t feeling my best, I decided to embark on a photo shoot, accepting and appreciating my current state. It was a confidence booster and a therapeutic way to do my Shadow Work.
Physically, I faced struggles with weight gain due to the absence of regular workouts and the abandonment of my wellness meal planning, which typically involved a gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-meat meal plan. This change led to recurring issues with constipation and bloating. Mentally, I found myself engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors and feeling disoriented. I had been neglecting my mental and physical well-being, which left me dissatisfied with my inner and outer appearance. Recognizing that I was unhappy with where I was, I took action to shift my perspective.
Firstly, I forgave myself for the choices that led me to this challenging situation. Then, I did something incredibly powerful—I embraced and accepted my body as it was, mentally and physically.
44 and Thriving: Embracing New Possibilities
Conclusion: As I approach my 44th year, I eagerly anticipate the experiences and opportunities that lie ahead in every aspect of my life. One of my primary aspirations is to expand my reach and touch the lives of a broader audience by sharing my personal journey. I envision that divine intervention will guide me into spaces where I can eloquently convey my story and empower women through the power of my words.
Recently, I had the pleasure of acquiring my first juicing client, and I sincerely hope this endeavor continues to flourish. I am still exploring the best career path and bridging the gap with Women Want Wellness. It could mean taking the leap into becoming a full-time Shadow work coach and establishing an online boutique featuring the wellness products that have brought me joy and fulfillment, which I wish to share with others. I might be called to engage in public speaking, using my story as a catalyst for inspiration and generating income. The possibilities are limitless.
My aspirations extend beyond personal success. I want to become a purpose-driven entrepreneur who positively impacts my local community of Houston. I hold a deep desire to contribute philanthropically to the community of Citala, Mexico, where my parents were born. My career goal is to serve within an organization that empowers women or underserved communities, regardless of the platform, and be valued monetarily and mentally.
It has been a year of growth, challenges, and victories that have shaped me. Throughout this blog post, I have shared my personal story, captivating new photos symbolizing my journey of self-discovery and self-love. I can’t wait to see what next year brings!
Join me in celebrating self-acceptance and the power of embracing our unique journeys. Together, let us inspire others to acknowledge their growth, find joy in their own paths, and strive for holistic wellness. Don’t forget to embrace your journey with a year recap of your challenges and growth through social media, Pinterest, journaling, and blogging.
Remember, the most beautiful part of life lies in our ability to love and embrace ourselves.
