Latinx Community & Wellness

Welcome to our three part series celebrating the Latinx healers, creators and wellness advocates making an impact in our communities. Wellness is multi-dimensional, as it consists beyond the physical, but also mental, spiritual, financial, environmental, and social aspects of our lives. These are the stories of role models making bienestar (wellbeing) una prioridad (priority) for all. 

I recently attended a community run to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, NY. Our guide, Nicole Espinosa, took us through several iconic Hispanic/Latinx landmarks to share the history behind each one. She made a remark que me impacto (made an impact) and inspired this piece.

“There’s a space for everybody, and if it doesn’t exist, create it”. 

It is important to share the stories of Latinx individuals beyond Hispanic Heritage Month, as it inspires others to create their own narratives. This series consists of real stories of inspirational Latinx individuals creating safe spaces for connection, community, and self-care through the power of wellness. Before we kick this off, let’s start with some self-reflection.

How does wellness show up in your life? 
How are you creating spaces of wellbeing for others? 
What does the future of wellness look like? 

SELF-REFLECTION THROUGH ART & CULTURE

Spotlight: Victoria Fernandez Forero

COMMUNITY IMPACT:
I’m a motion graphic designer who loves sports. One of the things I enjoy the most is to create connections using my strengths to create visually captivating designs. I recently completed a project ’24 Days of Yoga’ where I illustrated 22 people (me included) practicing yoga. These illustrations are on display in a yoga studio in LIC. The connections created were magical!

WELLNESS JOURNEY:
Wellness has played a significant role in my life, starting from an early age.
My mom encouraged me to engage in physical activities creating the habits of exercise and healthy eating. By being part of a team and community, I have experienced the benefits of social connection and support. Nowadays, I have a better understanding of what my body needs to feel good. I love helping people feel the same. Creating a goal or intention at the beginning of a yoga practice, race or workout is my way to help others to a path of wellness.

THE FUTURE OF WELLNESS
One aspect is the emphasis on community and family support. Hispanic communities often prioritize spending time with loved ones and engaging in activities together, which can contribute to overall wellbeing. In addition, the connection with nature and the use of natural resources for wellness can be traced back to indigenous cultures like the Mayans, who had a deep understanding of the environment and its impact on health. I would like to create an impact by continuing learning and observing past cultures, honoring their wisdom, and actively participating in community engagement.

’24 Days of Yoga’ project – instagram.com/reel/Cty5BZXABC5/
Website – holavicky.com

---

About Ingrid Baquero: Ingrid envisions an inclusive, joyful world, inspiring her community through the power of well-being.As a Colombian-American, and Queens, New York native it is an honor to serve the people of Queens through yoga, running and mindfulness. She is a dedicated runner, wellness program curator, community leader and dance and music aficionada.Outside, catch Ingrid on the run. She co-leads a 5k community social run within the Astoria/LIC area. All bodies and paces welcomed. Right now, Ingrid is dedicated to her wellness work, passion project: SOL YOGA PROJECT, and volunteer work with Yoga Love Magazine. 

If you have a story to share or know someone you’d like to celebrate reach out to us for a Latinx in Wellness: solyogaproject@gmail.com