Meet Ivy Felicia

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ivy Felicia. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ivy below.

Hi Ivy, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

I struggled with confidence and self-esteem from childhood through early adulthood due to personal challenges such as navigating fatphobia, surviving abuse, and managing chronic illness, which deeply impacted my sense of self. Seeking mental health therapy, I learned techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy that helped me reframe my thoughts, embracing holistic wellness. I found solace in practices like yoga and meditation and practicing spiritual techniques; I discovered the power of mindfulness and self-compassion, all of which brought healing into my life.

My journey to building confidence and self-esteem intertwines with my personal and professional growth. It began with a shift in mindset as I learned to embrace my imperfections and let go of unrealistic standards, allowing me to cultivate peace and self-love. Through facing personal challenges, I realized that confidence is about confronting fears with courage and grace and that my circumstances do not define my worth. In my professional life, helping others find peace with their bodies and empowering them further reinforced my confidence. This ongoing process requires patience, self-compassion, and, most importantly, embracing my journey with all its ups and downs. I learned that it’s okay to have setbacks and struggles and that they are an integral part of the journey. Ultimately, I found that my confidence shines when I am true to myself.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My journey is deeply personal and rooted in my own struggles with body shame and societal pressures. This journey led me to discover a holistic approach to wellness that embraces all dimensions of who we are—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. I’m here to help individuals find peace with their bodies and reclaim their inherent worth, just as I have.

As a Certified Holistic Wellness Coach and Body Image Expert with over a decade of experience, I specialize in guiding people toward body peace and self-acceptance. What makes my work truly special is the holistic, weight-neutral perspective I offer. I encourage clients to see beyond societal expectations and focus on their unique wellness journeys, promoting self-love and empowerment without the emphasis on weight.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is witnessing the transformation in my clients as they embrace their authentic selves and break free from the confines of diet culture. Seeing them reclaim their power and find lasting peace within their bodies is not just rewarding. It’s inspiring. My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to live a life aligned with their deepest desires.

My passion for serving women of color, particularly those navigating chronic illness, is deeply rooted in my own experiences. I understand the unique challenges and biases they face, and this understanding fuels my commitment to their holistic wellness and empowerment. My offerings, including individual and group coaching, workshops, and a wealth of resources, are designed to provide the support and guidance needed for their journey.

This year, I’m thrilled to announce several new initiatives that will significantly enhance our clients’ experience. We’re expanding our offerings to include more virtual workshops and community events, making our resources and support more accessible to individuals worldwide. I’m also excited about launching a series of self-guided wellness courses that will empower people to explore their body relationship at their own pace, fostering a deeper sense of self-love and acceptance.

At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and sustainable transformation. My brand is more than just coaching; it’s about building a community where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can feel seen, heard, and supported in their journey toward holistic well-being. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your self-love practice, I invite you to join us and experience the peace and empowerment that comes from embracing your true self.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Reflecting on my journey, intuition, empathy, and determination have been pivotal in shaping who I am and my work today.

Intuition: Trusting my intuition has been a guiding force in both my personal and professional life. It’s about listening to that inner voice that knows what aligns with your values and purpose, even when external noise tries to drown it out. For those just starting their journey, I recommend tuning in to your instincts. Practice mindfulness and self-reflection regularly. Allow yourself to be present in the moment and listen to what your heart is telling you. Over time, this practice will help you make decisions that resonate with your true self and lead you toward a fulfilling path.

Empathy: Empathy has allowed me to connect deeply with others, understanding their struggles and triumphs with compassion and respect. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and being open to their experiences without judgment. To cultivate empathy, engage actively in conversations, and truly listen to what others are saying. Read widely and immerse yourself in diverse perspectives to broaden your understanding of the world. Building empathy will not only enhance your relationships but also enrich your ability to support and uplift others.

Determination: Determination has been crucial in overcoming the challenges I’ve faced and in driving me to keep pushing forward. It’s the inner strength that keeps you going even when the road gets tough. For those early in their journey, set clear goals and break them down into manageable steps. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance along the way. Remember that setbacks are part of the journey and an opportunity for growth. Stay focused on your vision and believe in your ability to achieve it.

Each of these qualities has been instrumental in my journey, and by nurturing them, you can build a strong foundation for your path. Trust yourself, connect with others, and keep moving forward with courage and resilience. Your journey is unique, and embracing these qualities will help you navigate it with grace and authenticity.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am always open to partnering and collaborating with individuals and organizations who share my passion for holistic wellness, body peace, and empowerment. Collaboration is a powerful way to amplify our impact and reach more people who can benefit from this transformative work.

I’m particularly interested in working with other wellness practitioners, coaches, and advocates who align with a weight-neutral and inclusive approach to health and wellness. If you’re passionate about creating safe and nurturing spaces for healing, especially for marginalized communities, we can create meaningful change together.

Additionally, I’m eager to partner with organizations and community groups focused on promoting body acceptance, self-care, and holistic well-being. Whether through workshops, speaking engagements, or collaborative events, I believe in the power of community to inspire and uplift.

Those interested in collaborating should feel free to reach out via email at [email protected]. You can also visit my website at IvyFelicia.com to learn more about my work and the values I hold dear. Additionally, connect with me on social media:

Instagram- Instagram.com/iamivyfelicia
Facebook- facebook.com/TheBodyRelationshipCoach
LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/iamivyfelicia/

I regularly share insights and engage with a supportive community of like-minded individuals. Let’s explore how we can work together to empower others and create a world where everyone feels valued and accepted, just as they are.

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