Embrace Vulnerability, Heal and Grow

Unacknowledged trauma and grief don’t simply disappear over time. We might try to bury them, pretend the traumatic event never happened, avoid talking about it, and put on a happy mask to carry on with life. However, trauma that isn’t acknowledged and processed will eventually manifest in the body, often emerging as illness or addiction. We can’t hide forever. Suppressing these emotions doesn’t make them go away—they will eventually surface.

I know this from personal experience. For years, I hid the pain of losing my parents at a young age. I rarely spoke of them, and when I did, it was with contempt or by coldly referring to "The Mother," showing no love or compassion. Throughout my life, I experienced many losses, which I swept under the rug, put on a brave face, and carried on. Vulnerability was something I avoided at all costs.

But when I lost Dakota, everything changed. The wheels fell off, and I was paralyzed by grief. That was the moment I realized there’s no point in putting on a brave face. Vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s essential for growth. It allows me to share my feelings honestly: “I’m feeling afraid, I’m feeling stuck, I’m feeling like a loser, I’m exhausted—but I’m still committed to making a difference.” Through embracing vulnerability, I’ve found personal growth and healing.

At the upcoming Radiant Renewal Retreat in Mexico from October 26 to November 1, we’ll use yoga, sister circles, dancing, coloring, and journaling as tools for healing. I’ve grown through my grief, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey. I have one room left. If you’re ready to be vulnerable, to grow, and to heal, I invite you to join me. healing yoga retreat