Five Things About Me
As I continue to share my journey, I realize that some of the discussions will be heavy and emotionally intense, but this is not just a story about my rape. This is a story , which includes a chapter on my assault and how I continue moving forward.
Before we continue diving deeper into some of these heavier issues, I wanted to share a bit about myself, my likes/dislikes, and what you can likely find me doing when I’m not working on this blog. So here are 5 Things About Me:
Fitness/Yoga: Yoga is a big part of my life. So much so, that I started teaching it. I find it mentally and emotionally therapeutic, and a great workout. I love trying new workouts to challenge myself and it is a great way to meet new people. It amazes me the power that challenging your mind and body physically can have outside of the gym, pool, or studio. It has helped me learn more about myself and what my limits are, both mentally and physically.
Travel: There are so many beautiful places and amazing people - travel allows me to experience all of these great gifts. It affords me the opportunity to see the good and the beauty in the world while reflecting on where I was and where I have come. Have you ever traveled alone? It can be terrifying and liberating all at the same time. Have you traveled with a romantic partner and realized you were two different people from one week of travel, after years of being together? Amazing what a little change in geography can expose about your relationship with yourself, and with others.
Fashion: Being “into” fashion can have such a stigma to it. But I find it as a way of expressing who I am as a person and the mood I may be in that day or week. We are not all the same. Have you ever put on that favorite pair of jeans, shirt, bracelet and felt an instant adrenaline boost - like you could conquer the world or a night out? A favorite piece can transform you, like a cape of fearlessness, making you feel like you could conquer the world. The best part about these small things is that they may be a hand-me-down, a thrift store gem, or a designer gift to yourself for that big promotion.
Tribe: I love spending time with my friends, family, and my man. Finding your tribe is important, and there may be multiple tribes as you continue to grow and evolve as a person. It is all about balance, ensuring you are refilling what you are giving to those you love and vice versa. The interesting thing is like that favorite pair of jeans, you may outgrow your friendships or relationships. Everyone that enters your life may not be meant to stay, but understanding what you can learn from each relationship and that it may have a shelf life can be extremely rewarding and help you better define what and who you need in your life. It may even allow you to open up more to the unexpected. .
Career. Growing up I wanted to be everything and do everything - doctor, lawyer, actress, professional ballerina, and more. I believe, in some way, I got to explore quite a few of those opportunities and decided I really enjoyed science, specifically genetics and human biology, landing me in a career in biomarker research and it is never a dull moment. I get to wear different hats, think outside the box, and have an actual voice in an organization that truly wants to advance science to help people suffering from the worst of the worst.
During my journey,
my likes, my dislikes, and my version of self continue to evolve.
What keeps me excited and feeling supported may not a month or a year from and that is okay - I want to grow and become a stronger better version of myself. Today, as I write this, these are things that I not only enjoy and am deeply passionate about, but are part of the foundation of who I am.
“What helps support and build your foundation of self? ”