Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Houston?
I’m originally from the Houston area, born and raised! I moved away for undergraduate and graduate school, but soon returned home to Houston in 2001.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I have two bright and beautiful daughters, ages 6 & 10.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
Before becoming a Chinese Medicine practitioner and holistic health coach, I was a Sales Consultant in the pharmaceutical industry for 9 years.
Favorite local things to do in Houston?
Our favorite place to go in Houston is the Natural Museum of Science. We love exploring the exhibits and drooling over the massive amethysts and crystals.
Do you have a favorite family-friendly restaurant in the area?
We like to keep it simple at Goode Co. Taqueria.
What is your go-to activity for yourself for pampering or for fun?
For pampering, I love indulging in a 90-minute massage and craniosacral therapy session with Urban Kneads at the River Oaks Wellness Center. For fun, I love exploring all the new shops and restaurants popping up in The Heights and around town.
Funniest shortcut/routine for helping you through parenthood?
My girls are in Kindergarten and 4th grade. Instead of getting their clothes set out for them to wear to school, like my grandmother (who raised me) did, I let them pick out their own clothes each morning. As a result, they have developed their own unique and funky styles, while I can spend the morning packing their lunches for school.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
Yes! I am the owner and practitioner of Phoenix Rising Acupuncture, an acupuncture and herb clinic located in Upper Kirby.
Health has always been a passion of mine, and after leaving the pharmaceutical industry, I went back to school for the 4 year Master’s Degree in Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine. It was the best transition of my life. I love being a part of my patients’ journeys as their health transforms with the help of natural and holistic care.
I specialize in allergy elimination, chronic fatigue and chronic pain, including fibromyalgia and autoimmune disease.
I have been featured in Goop and in Houstonia Magazine.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Networking with other professionals in Houston is not only fun, but rewarding. The best part about being a part of the Houston community is that we can lift one another up and celebrate one another’s successes.
What is the best advice for juggling mommyhood and running a business (or volunteering, working, etc)?
Ask for help. If people are willing and wanting to help, then let them. Be strategic with scheduling. For me, that means that my kids’ major events come first, and when they are away – at school, camp, with relatives – then I adjust my office hours and work late nights or rare weekends.
What would you tell the old “You” before you had kids?
Wow! Children are the biggest blessing. They grow up way too quickly, so savor every precious moment. Always tell them “yes” when it’s a reasonable request, and know that they will never hold you back, but will only propel your motivation towards greater success.
