Today launches a Hispanic Heritage Month - Sept 15 - Oct 15, 2022 honoring and celebrating culture, history and stories of those from Spanish speaking countries. For me, it’s a chance to pause and acknowledge how my life and upbringing has affected the person I am and how it influences my experiences, relationships and appreciation for family and food…and yes my coaching.

My sisters and I were born here in San Diego, CA. My parents are both immigrants. My dad was born in Santiago, Chile and came to San Diego when he was a teenager. My mom was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and moved to San Diego when she was in elementary having to learn English quickly. I was raised in a home that had different sounds and smells then my friends. Our food was different, my parents were very strict, and we were held to a very high standard in school, sports, and family.

Our dinners consisted of a mix of Chilean dinners, my mom’s Mexican influence (which wasn’t all about tacos and burritos) and during the holidays we would get empanadas from my dad’s side of the family and tamales from my mom’s side. For a ample, having porotos was a very common dinner. It’s a pinto bean soup that my mom made by soaking beans and then booming them for several hours. We would put a bowl of cut up tomatoes on the table along with parmesan cheese and these would be the toppings. Meals were always delicious, nourishing and together. And we spent hours eating and talking. And when it was time to get up from the table, we asked to be excused.

Family is the core of who I am and what my childhood was as about. And it wasn’t just about my parents and sisters but the tios and primos. It’s how we spent birthdays and weekend together, our families blended together, playing, laughing and eating. My tios had a hand in my life and were part of my upbringing. Getting their approval was important to me. This is how my life felt as I look back on memories.

As I mentioned, my upbringing has shaped the person I am today and influences my coaching, There are a few things that stand out

Appreciation for family - I aim to find the right amount for each client so they have time with their family. Training can take a lot of time and each family has different needs to address. And because of this each workout is purposeful and efficient.
Importance of community - I had tios and primos. Have your clan there to share your experiences is huge and brings belonging and richness to your life.
Celebrating - We celebrated with food and music. However you celebrate, recognize your hard work and breakthroughs.
Nourish yourself - it’s important to get food and rest to help you reset physically and emotionally. For me it’s a combination of a shared me and sometimes it’s taking some quiet time near the beach or in the forest.

Salud!

Chi

Yo soy latina