Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolina Herrera.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Originally from Colombia, South America. Traveled to the US as an Exchange Student, and remain a student in the US for about 15 years. I worked my way through school and have a healthcare career. I am a nurse by background. I have done work in long-term facilities, hospitals, clinics and within the communities. I lived in Minnesota while going to school- I moved to Dallas 6 years ago. I came to realize I became a very busy professional with a limited amount of time and effort for self-care.
With my focus on work and career, I did not take the time for my own care. I became overweight and used cigarettes to help me relax. While caring for patients and being very busy I injured myself for life. I had to make lifestyle changes of my own. Ever since I realized I had to make changes, I have been on a mission to make the process be fun.
While going back to school did not sound appealing to me, 2 years ago. I decided to invest in my own development. I became a yoga teacher. I invested 200 hrs. of personal time on the mat. I did this for personal reasons, to help me deepen my practice and understand more about yoga since I had been a regular yoga practitioner for the past 12 years. With my experience in the health industry, I see a lot of potentials and work ahead. Yoga is a growing practice for many like myself. I am here sharing my story and have created a website where people can connect with me to include a tailored 10-minute practice. I have written a book Learn, Commit, Grow- with personal yoga, for all who want to include 10 min. of personal yoga and make it the best time of their days. Available on Amazon
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I came to this country when I was 15 years old, as an exchange student. This was my fierce 15year old decision. I knew I love to travel. At the time women turn 15 yrs. old, people within the Hispanic tradition- celebrate with Quinceaneras. My dad offered me a deal at 15. Do you want a quinceanera? Or would you rather go somewhere and learn something new? I said- yes please – send me to Paris, Europe, US- essentially- around the globe. His response was not quite as glamorous. He said I could go live with his cousin in MN and wouldn’t negotiate further.
I moved to Minnesota, it was cold, and I immediately wanted to jump back on the plane and go back to the tropical land of Colombia. But it was too late. That was a no go.
After my 15th birthday, I decided to come back with bigger goals in mind. I learned a new language and worked my way through school. I became a nurse because I trust this profession gives me the opportunity to serve and give back. The journey of becoming a health professional was not an easy one, I was able to recognize all the positive things that I had going for myself. I was able to join a health club that was open 24 hours and that became my personal go-to place- for cold days and when I was in search of fun times. I was supported by many families and individuals that have guided my being in this country and have supported my goals. I was growing up in a country without my direct family and friends nearby, was mastering cold weather, and was adapting to a new culture. I felt depressed and stressed most of the time. I was overweight and a smoker since taking care of my own body was not a priority for me. And I did not learn how to make my own body be a priority. Over the years I have learned to manage time and create balance to include self-management techniques that have driven results of weight loss, depression management, and tobacco cessation. I learned Yoga and I share my story to inspire all who may be in a similar situation.
MagentaStars.com – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
MagentaStars, came to my mind while camping and traveling in the Yucatan Peninsula. One night under the stars.
I frequently go to a town called Solferino, Mexico in the Yucatan Peninsula. I help out with animals at a refugee center. The town is known for the trees, and the Yum Balam- jungle. When the trees fall, the locals use the wood to color and produce many amazing handcrafted goods from the wood. Solferino means Magenta.
The locals in this town have talents, children paint birds, because so many trees, there are a lot of birds. Children play- act- dance and tell stories, and other locals craft beautiful items from the trees. Many of them though, live in sickness, under harsh and poor conditions. Summers are hot and winters are really cold. Food and water are sometimes scarce. Many members of the community are involved to ensure the community survives. I often go to learn how they are able to survive.
I have inspired many in my direct community to start a lifetime 10 min personal yoga practice.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me is to find what you are able to call a passion.
Carefully and graciously looking into one’s life and study what factors have added to personal wellbeing. What have I been able to enjoy, and how do I want the upcoming days to be like? Then taking action every day to ensure I am working towards a small action that will drive me to a bigger goal or vision.
In yoga, we call it a beginners mind. Inviting myself to dive into the day with the mindset of being a beginner and learning every day how to make the day better, even if all I get to do is my 10 minutes of personal breathing time.
Some days are hard, some days are fun. We all age, and the process of having a passion is an exciting one. I hope to encourage self-study and passion finding through a small yoga practice every day. Breathing and moving on and off the mat.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3838 Oaklawn Ave Suite 1000
Dallas TX 75219 - Website: www.magentastars.com
- Phone: 4696089438
- Email: havefun@magentastars.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magenta.stars/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magentastars1/
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
