About Maria

My journey to this path began in the early 90s when I landed a great job with a great company. Initially, everything was terrific. Then, a shift occurred. My manager was replaced by someone who was mean-spirited and condescending. What had once been a dream job transformed into a nightmare.

After enduring about six months of a hostile work environment, I started to suffer from bouts of vertigo and shortness of breath. Fearing it might be related to my heart (especially considering my father's premature passing from a heart attack at 55), I consulted my doctor. That same year, my mother received a devastating diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Balancing her diagnosis and my turbulent work environment became increasingly overwhelming. Yet, I persevered, or so I thought.  The vertigo persisted, and I broke out in large, circular hives across my legs and stomach. Occasionally, my upper lip swelled, resembling a prize fighter after a few rounds.

My doctor conducted a thorough examination and said I was in perfect health. He then offered me a prescription for anti-anxiety medication, along with a referral to a neurologist. The neurologist administered a straightforward test involving touching my nose and tilting my head. Upon learning about my stressful work situation, he, too, recommended anti-anxiety medication. It felt like a quick fix—touch your nose, move your head, here's a pill! It wasn't the solution I expected. Besides, I was raised by a mother who reserved pharmaceuticals for absolute necessities and believed in natural healing methods whenever possible.

Dissatisfied with my doctor's swift prescription approach, I sought out a new primary care physician with an integrative outlook. He conducted a comprehensive physical examination and discovered that my white blood cell count was alarmingly low. More importantly, he left a lasting impression by asking me to talk about what was happening in my life. After listening with patience and compassion, he acknowledged that my mother was nearing the end of her life. He suggested that, after her passing, I return for another blood test in about six months. Additionally, he advised me to reevaluate my job. He was convinced that the vertigo, hives, and low blood count were all manifestations of my body's response to the stress and grief I was experiencing and believed I could navigate this without medication.

Determined to equip myself with the tools to prevent a recurrence, I studied yoga and meditation practices. I attended classes on herbs, explored natural medicine, spirituality, nutrition, and researched the mind-body connection. This path led me to study energy healing, reiki, reflexology, aromatherapy, and, best of all, Ayurveda.

In working with an Ayurvedic doctor who later became my mentor, I was able to not only manage the anxiety but put it into perspective.  Years later, when I was diagnosed with Hashimotos Disease, it was Ayurveda that healed me. These experiences set me on a path that has evolved into a deep passion I can now share to help others. I went on to study Ayurveda and have helped numerous others facing similar challenges.

The foundation for my aspiration to become a health coach was laid through years of working with clients, recognizing that behavioral change is the initial step toward healing. Even the most well-crafted health plan can fall short if someone isn't ready to make the necessary changes. You hold the ultimate authority over your mind and body, and no one else can chart your path if you're not prepared to take those first steps.

The profound realization that the power to transform our lives lies within us prompted me to embark on a journey of introspection, confronting what wasn't working and what needed changing. True healing emerges through a holistic approach encompassing the mind, body, spirit, and environment. Confront your fears—you have the power to bring about positive changes in your life! If you’re ready, I’m ready!  Let’s navigate this journey together!