Thrive Guide

Monica Graves

About

As with most great stories of entrepreneurship, 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, mindful presence, and trusting the unknown… more so than even my wildest adv...
As with most great stories of entrepreneurship, 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, mindful presence, and trusting the unknown… more so than even my wildest adventures. And I’ve certainly had a LOT of those, as I’ve been living home-free as an Intentional Nomad for 5 years and counting!

I spent over 6 years working as a Master Educator and Retreat Host at The Chopra Center for Wellbeing in Carlsbad, CA., where I received certifications in Meditation, Yoga and Ayurveda under the mentorship of Dr Deepak Chopra and many other world-renowned visionaries. I had the immense fortune of honing my teaching skills at the Center for years, with guests from all over the world.

Then in 2015, I got wild hair of an idea that was just too intriguing to ignore! 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 living between Guatemala and Panama. And my business has since evolved to include Sacred Adventure Retreats, 1:1 Lifestyle Coaching, Keynote Speaking, and Group Programs for individuals and corporations. The content is a beautiful juxtaposition of ancient wellness wisdom (Ayurveda, Vedanta, Primordial Sound Meditation, and Reiki) and modern teachings in stress management, neuroscience, and conscious communication.

What really sets the Soulbare Wellness experience apart is the way in which I integrate my own gipsy-soul into the programs and retreats. That adventurous spirit really inspires and encourages my clients to forge their own purposeful path and unapologetically pursue a life filled with vibrant health, healing, and happiness!
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Shared link goes to my YouTube channel which includes a teaser for my signature retreat in Guatemala (Wisdom of the Elements), candid videos of a few speaking engagements, and fun home-video from a weekend adventure in Panama with my love :)
Shared link goes to my YouTube channel which includes a teaser for my signature retreat in Guatemala (Wisdom of the Elements), candid videos of a few speaking engagements, and fun home-video from a weekend adventure in Panama with my love :)
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If you truly want to be happy, nobody can stop you!
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Retreat Specialties

The retreats I host in Central America are such a cool blend of spirituality and sacred adventure... it's almost hard to put into words and definitely needs to be experienced first-hand! These retreats are for you if you enjoy traveling off the beaten path, blasting open your comfort zone, immersing yourself in colorful ancient culture, and reconnecting to yourself while surrounded by breathtaking natural settings. The annual women's retreat I host in Asheville, NC is a decadent long weekend of nourishment and rejuvenation through the wisdom of Ayurveda. Sisterhood, soul-healing and sacred pause are the foundation of this restorative experience on sacred indigenous land in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Teaching Specialties

Love this question! The thing my students enjoy the most about working with me is this really cool marriage of intuitive guidance, sage wisdom, judgement-free listening, caring compassion, humor, and lightness. I've dubbed myself as a Dharma Instigator, because I just LOVE teaching people how to consciously overcome their limitations, engage their full potential, and express their unique life purpose. And I'm certainly not afraid to dish out some real-talk tough love when it's when required! Past clients affectionately call these moments "Spirit Spankings," and I think that name fits it pretty well ;)

What are your favorite Retreat Venues around the world

Villa Sumaya in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. This property is an absolute slice of heaven, with stunning attention-to-detail in everything they do. The breath-taking volcano/lake views from the yoga shalas, guestrooms and common areas creates such a magical atmosphere for powerful transformation. And I ADORE how easy they make my life as a retreat leader with abundant amenities, world-class menus, and wide selection of add-on ceremonies and healing sessions.

What's your personal definition of what it means to thrive?

To truly Thrive, I believe our ONLY task is to learn how to tune into our heart and unapologetically follow its unique voice. We are all so different in our needs and desires. And our life goes through so many distinct seasons. There are times to be assertive and take bold risks. There are times to be still and enjoy contented presence. In some moments, proactive and disciplined self-care will uplift us. And in others, luxurious and guilt-free downtime is the most nourishing. When we can tune into exactly what we need in each moment and relentlessly pursue that - free of all shame and shoulds - then we can truly Thrive in our individuality and enjoy all the rich texture that this life has to offer!

Who do you look up to ? Who has helped you the most along your teacher / retreat leader journey?

I’m honored to dedicate this shoutout to three extremely special women in my life. First to Tris Thorp and Libby Carstensen, fellow colleagues from the Chopra Center. Both of these remarkable women 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 my business coach Emily Utter. M world changed entirely when I started working with her, as she's supported my journey towards radical self-worth, growth, and an unshakable trust in my passionate purpose.

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