Mariana is a seasoned artist and coach dedicated to empowering creative individuals to thrive. With over 20 years of experience as a singer-songwriter, recording artist, and entrepreneur, Mariana understands the challenges and triumphs of the creative journey.

Her own experiences with performance anxiety, self-doubt, and creative blocks fueled her passion for helping others overcome similar obstacles and achieve their artistic potential.

A Holistic Approach to Creativity

Mariana’s approach goes beyond coaching skills. She holds a B.A. in Creativity and Spirituality from Goddard College and is a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) practitioner.

She is also a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner with a focus on Qi Gong, further demonstrating her dedication to holistic well-being. Currently, Mariana is pursuing Polyvagal Theory training for the arts and Wellness Coaching Certification based in Motivational Interviewing deepening her understanding of the mind-body connection in creative expression and supporting behaviour change.

Credentials

• B.A. in Creativity and Spirituality, Goddard College

• M.S. Licensed in Traditional Chinese Medicine and certified in Qi Gong from the Academy of Oriental Medicine, Austin

• Certified in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction from Mindful Leader

• Certified in Mindfulness Meditation from Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute (Originated at Google)

• Polyvagal Theory for the Arts Certification from The Fox Method

• Wellness Coaching Certification from Catalyst Coaching (in progress)

What is Wellness Coaching for Creatives?

Wellness coaching for creatives is a holistic approach that recognizes that true well-being isn’t just about physical health or stress management—it must include a person's creative process and fulfillment. For artists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, creativity isn’t just something they do; it’s essential to their sense of purpose and vitality.

At its core, wellness coaching for creatives helps individuals cultivate a balanced, sustainable relationship with their creative energy.

What is Mindfulness Meditation for Creativity?

Mindfulness meditation involves being present in the moment without judgment. Its effects on the creative process include improved concentration, reduced stress, better emotional regulation, increased cognitive flexibility, heightened self-awareness, improved resilience, and enhanced openness to new ideas. By cultivating these qualities, mindfulness can create a mental environment conducive to creativity and innovation.

What is Nervous System Regulation for Creatives?

Feeling safe unlocks creativity. This idea is supported by the Polyvagal Theory, which explores how our nervous system regulates emotions and social behavior. Dr. Stephen Porges developed this theory, which suggests our nervous system has three stages, with the most recent one enabling social connection.

When we feel safe and socially connected (ventral vagus activation), our brains can focus on higher-level thinking, which is key for creativity. On the other hand, stress or threats (sympathetic and dorsal vagus activation) prioritize survival, making it harder to be creative.

This approach fosters the conditions needed for creativity to flourish. Being able to manage our nervous system responses is therefore crucial for optimizing our creative potential.