I’m Alicia
My life began to change quite drastically on December 23, 2016 when I heard the words, “Alicia, I am so sorry but it’s cancer.” I cannot speak for everyone but, from my personal experience, a diagnosis of such magnitude turns your life upside down and into an emotional roller coaster. Disbelief, frustration, anxiety, anger, and fear were just a few emotions that circulated almost daily thereafter.
It took some time for the frustration and anger towards myself and my body to diminish. Initially, I was angry at my body for failing me. However, I soon learned that in reality I had actually failed my body. That was the pivotal moment in my life when I realized it was up to me to take my health into my own hands. During that growth period it became glaringly obvious that I really did not know a lot about myself or my body.
I believe physical health and emotional peace are not only possible but also interconnected. I have had the privilege of seeing and personally experiencing just how miraculously powerful the human body is. Its ability to heal itself when given a chance with the proper tools is truly remarkable.
I’ve found a new passion in true wellness. I believe I was to have this life experience, to have the realization that I want to assist others find inspiration to live a healthier life for themselves before they have to hear those same words or experience a different health crisis of their own.
Knowledge is power and I continue to search for more information to educate myself about all health and wellness subjects. Some of my most recent endeavours include enrolling in a course with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York City where I received certification as a Holistic Health Coach with supplementary education in Hormone Health and Gut Health. I am also currently enrolled in a plant-based nutrition course offered by Health Mastery Institute.
During my treatments I decided to take some time for myself and so I signed up for a restorative yoga class in the summer of 2017. I took this training so that I could inform myself but also share what I had learned and experienced during those classes with my family & friends. After my treatments it was evident that I had lost most, if not all, of my muscle mass. I needed to re-establish my relationship with my body again and be able to trust it. I thought what better way than to take a yoga teacher training, learn the correct form, and other yogic practices to implement into my daily life. I received certification for a 200-hour Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training in April of 2019. In the spring of 2020, I enrolled in a 200-hour Hatha Yoga Teacher Training. I have also been completing other supplementary trainings that will go towards obtaining +500-hour certifications.
I’ve also come to realize the impact and appreciate the stillness of meditation and a committed Yoga Nidra practice greatly benefits my mental well-being.
My life experiences since hearing those words has completely broadened my view of what really is important in my life and, in turn, strongly influences the way I nourish my body, move my body, and live a more holistic life.