Why & Where...
Maria created the Anchored Minds & Bodies website to provide information and resources to support individuals of all ages in navigating life's daily ups and downs. She believes these integrative, evidence-based, practices can be very effective in both the therapeutic-based and wellness-based settings. Maria can attest to how beneficial these skills and practices have been in her own life and she is passionate about sharing these valuable techniques with you.
Visit www.KidTherapynj.com, to find mindfulness-based Inner Explorer Therapy Programs for kids in grades K-6, as well as private Pediatricl Occupational Therapy services, to support focus, self-regulation, executive function skills, and social-emotional learning.
* Maria has been recognized by the New Jersey Occupational Therapy Association (NJOTA) with an Award of Merit for Innovations in Treatment Facilitating Mindfulness, Meditation & Yoga Practices.
Visit www.ezentialwellness.com for Mindfulness-based Meditation Classes and Private Mental Fitness Training for teens and adults (in-person and virtual) who want to learn mindfulness as a life skill or to help reduce anxiety, train attention, manage chronic pain, and/or to find peace within themselves.
*NEW: Private sessions (in-person or virtual) and classes (in-person) for Vestibular Yoga Warriors.
(See personal update below)
* PERSONAL UPDATE*
In January 2025 I was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, a neurological disorder caused by reactivation of the Shingles virus in my vestibulocochlear nerve (right ear). After recovering from Shingles, although I was fortunate to have most of my hearing return, I was left with Vestibular Neuritis. In addition to being chronically dizzy, it stripped me of my independence. My head felt as if it were a balloon, barely tethered to my body. I couldn't stand without wavering, shower without assistance, walk my dog, cook, drive, or work. My initial reaction was FEAR, RESISTANCE, SADNESS, and LOSS of my former self. Once I saw a terrific Physical Therapist, certified in Vestibular Rehab, and I realized exactly what was happening with my Brain & Body, I immediately recognized how my strong foundation in mindfulness & Yoga would support me through this journey. I needed to rely on Neuroplasticity to create new pathways for my Brain and Body to read and respond to vestibular/balance experiences. I felt RELIEF and GRATITUDE for the tools in my toolbox. I leaned in, began to accept my current situation, and committed to both physical and mental training, daily. A Yogi mindset, meditations, breathwork, and specific poses helped to ground me; Mindfulness kept me present and positive. After speaking with others who struggle with vestibular disorders, I believe those without these valuable tools/practices often become stuck and suffer much longer. Everyone's situation is unique, but there are many similarities too....and through this experience, I found another profound way to help myself and others through training in Mindfulness & Yoga.
To learn more about the benefits of Yoga and Mindfulness for Vestibular Disorders, please follow this link to VeDA (The Vestibular Disorder Association): www.https://vestibular.org/blog/yoga-for-vestibular-disorders/
*These practices are not in place of Vestibular Rehab, they are valuable Integrative Techniques to support you in your path to recovery*
*If interested in individual training and/or Classes in Mindfulness and/or Vestibular Yoga, Mind-Body Wellness, please visit eZential Wellness Center: www.ezentialwellness.com
About Maria
Why do you practice mindfulness?
Initially I learned the practice of mindfulness to manage my chronic back pain; but as I trained further, I discovered many more benefits. I was better able to notice when my body experienced stress and how to disarm it. My sleep improved and I felt more calm throughout the day. I see mindfulness as a gift and it's my passion to share it with my family, friends, clients, and community.
What is your training and how does mindfulness fit with OT?
Mindfulness is a natural extension of OT, as it's a life skill, that can be cultivated through understanding and practice. It specifically supports the work I do with youth who struggle with social-emotional learning and those with executive function challenges; therefore, I was very excited to continue my training in this field of study. It's been a valuable addition to my therapy practice for the kids and their families.
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Why did you decide to bring this practice to the community?
Although mindfulness has therapeutic value, mindfulness training does not discriminate! Mindfulness benefits EVERYONE. There is no stigma associated with mental training...I'd like to make it accessible to everyone. Many corporate executives, professional athletes, and celebrities practice and promote mindfulness as a form of mental training...lets share it with everyone!