• What does radical self-care mean to you?

For me, radical self-care means going that extra mile. It means having the self discipline to resist overeating, drinking, partying, etc. It means getting plenty of sleep, exercise, eating a healthy diet, and taking supplements as needed. It includes paying attention to one’s intuition and realizing that all the answers one needs can be found within. Radical self-care for me has been establishing a meditation practice to help calm the stress and achieve a higher level of self love and acceptance, as well as love and acceptance of others in my life. Practicing radical self-care has also meant walking away from negative people and things in my life that are no longer serving my highest good.

• Tell us about your first experience with yoga?

During my first experience with yoga I learned how good it feels to stretch my muscles, to pay attention to my breathing, and to improve my sense of well being. I have a goal to practice yoga on a more regular basis going forward!

• What does being of service mean to you?

To me, being of service means having a genuine desire to improve the lives of others. It includes being empathetic to their needs and sharing wisdom and skills that you have to offer.

I’m learning to slow down! I frequently need to remind myself that there is no need to rush through every day. I remind myself to pay attention to my breathing. Often, I take deep breaths ~ in and out. I try to pay attention to the talk going on in my head, as well. When I catch myself having negative thoughts, fretting, and stewing, I slow down, take those deep breathes, and take a moment to sweeten up my thoughts!

• What are you currently working on in yourself?

I am currently working on eating a healthy diet. This includes cutting out sugary, high calorie foods. I try to include fresh fruits, veggies, lean protein, and supplements everyday. I avoid late night activities and try to get plenty of sleep. I’ve always tended toward being a “people pleaser.” I’m working on being aware of my own needs first, rather than always taking care of everyone else.

• What/who inspires you the most?

Brittany and Jonah are an immense inspiration! They inspire me with their energy, enthusiasm, ambition, kindness, love, wisdom and sincere desire to make the world a better place.

• What sparked your love for plants and gardening?

I believe I was born loving plants and gardening. My parents planted a vegetable/flower garden every year. We always had home canned pickles, corn, beets, green beans, tomatoes, etc., in the vegetable cellar all year. They planted many annual flowers, as well as bulbs, roses and other perennials. I remember as a very young child, learning and embracing planting seeds in rows every spring. It brought such joy watching them grow! From back then, right up to today, I love the joy of digging in the dirt and the connection I feel to the earth when I do.