ACT Approach
There are often private events (emotions, thoughts) that drive a person’s behavior and may hinder them from meeting their goals. This is where Acceptance and Commitment Therapy / Training comes in. ACT is an evidenced-based approach that combines mindfulness and behavior change strategies to promote psychological flexibility. Acceptance of thoughts and emotions as they are empowers us to move through challenges and commit to lasting behavior changes. Understanding our behaviors in the present moment and why we engage in them can lead us to decrease unproductive behaviors and increase productive behaviors. The goal of ACT is to help individuals move forward from mental blocks or other barriers to achieve emotional balance.
Mindful Yoga-based Acceptance Commitment Therapy / Training (MYACT) relates ancient yoga wisdom rich in lessons on how to live life with ACT. There have been many empirical data, with good findings, that yoga is good for our physical health. And it is beneficial for those who experience stress, anxiety, depression or chronic pain (Gordon et. al., 2019). Yoga is a tool to teach ACT through movement, to connect the body, mind, heart and soul -- our whole self.
Every Body is unique so my approach is personalized. We will begin by looking at the different areas of our well-being: Physical, Financial, Mental, Social, Career/Purpose and Emotional. You will receive recommendations based on your lifestyle and preferences. Some areas we might explore are self-care and self-compassion, reshaping the mindset, and transforming behaviors.
About Me
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Certified Nutrition Coach. I have a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), masters in Education and bachelors in Communication Arts. My professional experience includes 15 years of teaching preK-2 and supervision of behavior therapy for children, teens, and adults who struggle with behavioral challenges. The evidenced-based intervention plans I have developed addressed behaviors like emotional outbursts, aggression, food selectivity, negative "self-talk," and repetitive behaviors, to name a few. The success of intervention is more likely with follow through from parents and caregivers. That's why I have collaborated with numerous families to work on behavioral goals that are important for them and make their life better. Additionally, I've worked with ABA agencies in leading staff training and development.
Having experienced burnout, I studied Integrative Health coaching, as well as a yoga teacher training. Under the guidance of other coaches, I learned to apply my knowledge of behavior science, not only to help others, but to change my mentality and habits as well. Practicing mindful yoga alleviated stress and gave me a renewed sense of energy! This mind-body awareness often translates off the mat, allowing us to be more present, and self-loving. This is a gift that I would like to share with everyone.
Currently, I am enrolled in YogaMedCo's Integrative Health Coaching and Yoga Teacher Training (YTT200) facilitated by Dr. Suzie Carmack.
Yoga Styles
It is up to the client if they would like a talk-based or movement-based coaching session or both. I incorporate the following styles depending on the client's needs, preferences and comfort level.
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Hatha Yoga is a gentle form of yoga that focuses on asanas (poses) paired with breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation (dhyana). It is ideal for beginners. Vinyasa style may be included for intermediate learners.
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Restorative Yoga is a therapeutic form of passive static stretching where props are used to support the body.
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Yin Yoga is slow-paced and targets the deep tissues in our body. It is based on Taoist philosophy that "chi" or "qi" flows through our body, and by holding the poses for 2 minutes or more, we remove blockages allowing energy to flow.
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Chair Yoga is a restorative practice ideal for the office or for individuals that need extra support in mobility and flexibility.
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Guided Meditation includes breathing exercises and mantras combined with mental imagery and body scanning.
