We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica Graves and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Monica, is there something you believe many others might not?
What a fantastic question! I love this invitation to expand on a musing that’s felt really pertinent and important in my work lately… In the spiritual wellness industry, most of us have heard the phrase “Let go of that which does not serve you.” time and time again. And I totally understand this advice in theory! Yet, at it’s core, I find it really counter-productive to awakening the unconditional self-love and self-acceptance that we so deeply desire. You see, I believe that EVERYTHING comes into our life to serve us. Even our deepest wounds and darkest shadows hold such tremendous wisdom! Each of our life experiences serve as a necessary and sacred piece of the foundation upon which we stand, grow, and evolve to see new perspectives. So just as we wouldn’t rip out the bricks of a home’s foundation once we move on to build the 2nd floor… I see this huge invitation to shift our language from “letting go of the useless” towards “integrating into the wholeness.” Then, we can truly know and honor the divine purpose of every little thing about our life experience. And in that space, we get to love ourselves more deeply and wholly than we even thought possible!
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Oh my! Well as with most great stories of entrprenuership, mine was (and continues to be!) a series of one massive leap of faith after another. It has truly been the greatest initiation into personal development and trusting the unknown… more so than even my wildest life and travel adventures. And I’ve certainly had a LOT of those, as I’ve been living home-free as an Intentional Nomad since 2015! I stated my company Soulbare Wellness the same year that I decided to sell everything I own and move to Central America with nothing more than a backpack and an open heart. My loose intention was to spend 3 months discovering sacred sites to host retreats, and I had no clue where I would wind up! Those 3 months have turned into 5 years, and my business has since evolved to include adventure retreats, 1:1 lifestyle coaching, powerful group programs, keynote speaking and workplace wellness programs. Our content is a beautiful juxtaposition of ancient wisdom (Ayurveda, Vedanta, Primordial Sound Meditation) and timeless teachings of receivership, soulful severance, and unapologetic vibrant living. I think what really sets me apart is the way in which I integrate my own gypsy-soul with being a business owner… that adventurous spirit really inspires and encourages my clients to live out loud and know their true boundless potential!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’m honored to dedicate this shoutout to three extremely special women in my life. First to Tris Thorp and Libby Carstensen, both of whom have inspired my entire 12-year coaching career by showing me what it truly looks like to teach and live from the heart of Dharma. And second, to Emily Utter, who has supported this last year of my journey towards radical self-worth, growth, and an unshakable trust in my passionate purpose.
Website: www.soulbare.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/soulbare
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msgraves/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/monicasuegraves
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCja3TW6KFQyWfm2sWN_7CDQ
Image Credits
Luis Carlos Garcia (all photos)