WHAT TYPE(S) OF HOLISTIC MEDICINE OR WELLNESS HAVE YOU STUDIED AND WHAT DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN?

I’ve primarily studied Ayurveda for the past 10 years. I specialize in Ayurvedic Bodywork, offering sessions in Abhyanga, Vishesh, Swedana, Shirodhara, Marma Chikitsa, Nasya + Ayurveda Health Counseling to my community. Additionally, I’ve created MJH Ayurvedic Botanicals, a line of organic bodycare products, featuring body oils, massage salves, facial care + body butters.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOU. WHAT’S YOUR BACKSTORY, AND HOW DID YOU GET INTO HOLISTIC WELLNESS?

I grew up studying dance, and taking an interest in personal health and maintenance felt like a natural progression. Yoga became a welcomed addition to my life during my early 20’s, helping to offset my tendencies towards anxiety and perfectionism, and through Yoga I was introduced to Ayurveda.

It was first pitched to me as a “perfect diet plan based on your body type” which immediately drew me in, but once I answered the call to dive in and explore Ayurveda more fully, the true implications of a heart-centered approach to health. I was hooked, and it’s been such an eye-opening journey ever since.

WHAT’S YOUR PREFERRED STYLE OF WORK?

While my practice supports a number of formats, from 1:1 counseling, facilitation of personal and group movement classes, workshops and Ayurvedic cleanses, my preferred format is the nuanced, heart-centered care that is experienced during Ayurvedic Bodywork sessions.

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF IN YOUR WORK?

I’m just so proud that I followed the breadcrumbs and followed my heart.

At so many junctures, I could’ve gotten disheartened, lost sight or quit the journey altogether due to the expected obstacles that someone faces when they’re striking out on a path that’s fueled by their deepest passions.

But fortunately, Ayurveda is the foundation not only for my vocation but also for my lifestyle, so every time things felt too big, too far-off, too impossible, I had Ayurveda to turn to, to embrace me and reassure me that the picture is far bigger + brighter than what a Profit + Losses spreadsheet might imply.

WHERE DO YOU GET MOST OF YOUR HEALTH INFO FROM (OUTSIDE OF YOUR TRADITIONAL STUDY). ARE THERE ANY PODCASTS YOU LOVE, BOOKS YOU’D RECOMMEND, OR NEWSLETTERS YOU ENJOY GETTING?

I love learning from:

• Adena Rose Bright
• The Confessions of a Well-Nourished Woman interview series
• Linda River Valente’s patreon + podcast
• “Gathering Moss” and “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer
• The Everyday Ayurveda Cookbook by Kate O’Donnell … and more but that’s all I can think of for now!

WHERE DO YOU MEET MOST OF YOUR CLIENTS?

Fortunately, Blossom Wellness Center, where I practice Ayurveda, has a pretty robust following, so folks are able to find me through the website.

At this point, I’m so fortunate to have a strong base of return clientele, but I’m always excited to meet new folks and introduce them to the absolute bliss + nourishment that is experienced during an Ayurvedic Bodywork session.

When I’m able to bring MJH Ayurvedic Botanicals out into the world and celebrate them through workshops or vending opportunities, it’s a beautiful occasion to invite folks to explore Ayurveda deeper through an introductory bodywork or health counseling session. Somehow someway, this corner of Northern VT supports a number of Ayurvedic professionals, educators + students, so there’s an inherent sense of curiosity + enthusiasm within our community that keeps the fire alive.

IF YOU COULD GIVE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE TO A NEW HOLISTIC PRACTITIONER, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Trust that there are folks out in the world who need your special brand of love, wisdom + compassion. No single practitioner can take care of every person, and the folks who are meant to work with you, who will benefit from your particular interpretation + approach, will find you. Be better at accepting compliments.

WHERE CAN PEOPLE FIND YOU?

• Website: www.mjhyanda.com
• Instagram: @mjhyogaveda
• Blossom Wellness Center: www.blossomwellness.center
• Bloom Wellness Center IG: @blossomwellness.center