Hometown:
Denver, CO
Current Belt/Rank:
Blue belt
What year did you start training?
2012
How did you get started?
I had just gotten out of an emotional and physically abusive relationship, I wanted to learn how to protect myself and feel safe. I wanted to do something that could bring me joy and happiness so that I could feel like myself again.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in your training, and how did you overcome it?
Consistency! Injuries and jobs affected my training schedule and I wasn’t able to train how I wanted to. I over came this with the help of an awesome bjj support system, (best friends and husband) that continued to remind me of the important role jiu jitsu plays in my life, and how it keeps my mental health in check.
What’s your favorite thing about training/teaching, and why?
I love training for the mental aspect of doing jiu jitsu as well as the amazing group of people that have become a second family! I love teaching because it allows me to give back what was given to me and I love watching people grow and succeed through their challenges.
What are your personal goals on and off the mat?
Goals on the mat: get 1% better every time I am on the mat and be a great role model for all the girls in the Tiger classes as well as my own daughter (who trains)!
Goals off the mat: to launch my own business “Bella Cacao” and to travel all over the world.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am a Herbalist and Reiki Master.
