Episode 31 - Rooted in Purpose: How Values Shape Holistic Therapy with Valerie Rivera
By Jessica Garrison
Not only has our next guest been on the podcast before, but she has also given us one of the most memorable quotes over the years. Valerie Rivera, curious and full of determination, was featured on the 8th episode of our 4th season, “Celebrate Yourself with Valerie from Inner Solace Therapy.” Resiliency has been a foundation through her different seasons, and she’s back to share more of her journey and how these seasons have changed for her.
Last time Valerie was with us, she said that whatever you say yes to, you are saying no to something else. This is a great reminder for when you’re learning to say no to things that you don’t have time for or things that don’t fill your cup. If you say yes to something you don’t want to do, ultimately you’re saying no to something you do want to do. This sentiment has been repeated on the podcast over the seasons, and it’s still as true as the first time Valerie said it.
Valerie reminds us that it’s okay to change your mind, and we should allow ourselves to do it every so often. If you’re not changing, then you’re not evolving or reflecting. It’s important to reevaluate your expectations or reevaluate your values especially as time goes on. Things change in life, and it’s okay to change along with them. Otherwise you might get left behind.
Self-reflection is a recurring tool for Valerie, especially with the work that she does as a holistic therapist. She is ever-changing, and she compares these layers to an onion, which we have done so many times before. I always think of Shrek whenever people say this, but it’s true. We have to peel the onion and heal. Some layers are easier to peel and heal from, while others need more time and patience. Valerie says the core is childhood and how she grew up, which I agree with completely—Childhood shapes the people we become. We have to get to the root of ourselves to be able to heal the foundation and keep building ourselves up with more stable ground. And if you don’t want to think of yourself as an onion with layers, think of yourself as a sweet, delicious piece of cake; cakes also have layers.
I love when we have past guests come back and share not only what they’ve been doing since the last time they were here, but to also see what they’ve learned. Even when we think we may have it all figured out, life is waiting to throw a curveball, and hearing how these women move through life is so inspiring. We’re all just doing our best to figure it out, and Valerie is a prime example of someone who is doing the work for themselves and this in turn is helping others. Taking the time to stop and reflect, not only on what you need to change but also on what you have done well, is so important in this journey. Listen back to Valerie’s first episode in comparison to this one, and you’ll see everything come together.
Ways to Engage: Take some time to reflect, maybe even try writing your reflections down in a notebook. Reflect upon your health, comparing where you were before and where you are now. What has improved? What do you want to improve upon? Don’t be too hard on yourself—celebrate even the smallest of wins. Remember to give yourself grace as you move through your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.