Like most worthwhile journeys, my personal health journey was not a linear one.  

Having played sports since grade school, through college, I had always equated my health to my athleticism, but during my college years, my body quickly communicated how it felt about the changes in lifestyle during those years. A combination of less rest, more stress, poor nutrition, and an overall greater demand from my body and mind, I began experiencing chronic back pain. 

Eventually, I was diagnosed with herniated discs and ovarian cysts. My body had demanded recalculation.  I began taking steps towards pain management that included physical therapy and pain medication. There’s a reason it’s called pain management and not pain healing. 

Unfortunately, things got worse before they got better. In 2019, I suffered a dislocation of my hip. Again, I was advised to go to physical therapy, but this time, surgery was discussed as a possible next step. The possibility flooded me with fear, but it also inspired me to take more initiative in my own journey to healing. 

My research led me to holistic approaches to wellness that reminded me that I am the first line of defense when it comes to my health. I began to familiarize myself with the alkaline diet, the benefits of herbs, sea moss, and natural medicines, as well as mindfulness techniques and mobility exercises. These holistic approaches gave me a sense of agency regarding my health and wellness. 

Being a teacher at the time, I instinctively wanted to share this knowledge in an approachable way with my students. I began incorporating yoga into our mornings to promise movement and mindfulness, and collectively we benefitted mentally and physically. 

Now, as a nurse, I am passionate about sharing holistic approaches to create a bridge between preventative and curative care. In my profession, every day I see how illness can steal balance and peace from people’s lives. It’s what drives my passion for preventative care, holistic health, and herbalism.

healwithin was born from my journey—learning to listen to my body and nature’s wisdom, and approaching wellness with compassion and intention. I hope my story inspires you to take charge of your own healing, and that healwithin brings you closer to wellness—gently, naturally, and from within.