Connection to the Natural World
My connection to the natural world began in childhood, as is often the case with many herbalists. Having spent countless hours turning over rocks to uncover bugs, gathering plants from the garden, and concocting my own “potions”, I found peace, creativity, and joy in those moments.
It wasn’t until my teenage years that I began to recognize the essential and medicinal qualities of plants. I stumbled upon a book of natural remedies, and it felt like being let in on a grand secret. That discovery sparked a deep passion, and at 16, I began my self-study of herbal medicine, eagerly absorbing every resource I could find.
Following my JOY on the plant path
Initially pursuing a career in the medical field, I imagined myself as a nurse or physician. During this path, I worked in doctors’ offices, labs, and emergency medicine, gaining hands-on experience with blood draws, lab work, and patient care. However, it wasn’t what I had envisioned. By 2012, in the midst of the opioid epidemic, I realized that the conventional medical system wasn’t my path. I transitioned into massage therapy, where I found joy in helping others feel good in their bodies. Still, something was missing. That’s when I realized I could merge my love for plants with my passion for healing—I could become an herbalist.
Though I had been studying herbal medicine for years, it hadn’t occurred to me that one could pursue this work professionally. While working with a naturopathic physician, a graduate of Sonoran University, I was recommended to seek out herbalist JoAnn Sanchez in Tempe to learn more about becoming an herbalist.
Why SWIHA?
At the time, SWIHA was the only option close to home, and the recommendation to study under JoAnn made the choice clear. From my first meeting with her during the application process, I knew she was the mentor I had been searching for. And so it continues…
My Journey Through the Program
Entering the program, I already had significant experience, having studied herbal medicine independently and currently employed at a local apothecary. Even so, the program connected the dots between my self-taught knowledge and formal education, allowing me to see the bigger picture. The combination of new information, my life experiences, and the guidance I received created an intricate and inspiring path that propelled me forward on my journey of becoming the herbalist I am today. This program also connected me with a lively community of like-minded individuals, who became lifelong friends and teachers to me.
A Profound Moment of Inspiration
JoAnn has been one of my greatest mentors and sources of inspiration. One standout moment was when she invited me to speak at the Arizona Herb Association. It was easy to question my abilities, yet she assured me I was capable of more than I realized. After that, I had a blast at that event, and received such positive feedback from the audience; it was a spark that lit up my enthusiasm for teaching about plants.
Life After Graduation
After completing the program, I continued my work as an herbalist, collaborating with my dear friend Chloe Bee, the owner of Rainbow Bliss Botanicals Apothecary. Quickly, the opportunity to move into leadership roles presented itself, including medicine maker and manager. I trained many budding herbalists and educated customers on the products I was making. Meanwhile, I also pursued my own ventures, serving tea, creating herbal products, and teaching about botanicals at events across the Southwest.
Shadowing JoAnn
Shadowing JoAnn has been an incredible journey. Together, we carefully examined every aspect of the program that she built from scratch, growing it into the 745-hour program it is today. I audited classes, collaborated on plant walks and public speaking events, and eventually stepped into teaching roles with her guidance. The opportunity to continue to learn from JoAnn and other mentors is something I choose to do, as I believe herbalism is a lifelong journey requiring constant growth and study.
Looking Ahead as Program Director
As the new director, I am thrilled to be a voice for the plants and to share this beautiful, ancient craft with students. Herbalism is both an art and a science, and I look forward to infusing the program with my own philosophy and creative energy. My goal is to update the curriculum and inspire students to develop their unique philosophies of healing as they embark on their herbal journeys.
Final Thoughts
I’ve arrived at this point by following a path that brought me joy and trusting in my heart to guide me. A note to aspiring herbalists: If you feel called to this work, I encourage you to listen to that call. Herbalism is a rewarding and ever-expanding practice and way of life that fosters a deep and meaningful connection with the natural world improving the health of ourselves and our communities.
SWIHA’s next Western Herbalism Program starts October 1, 2025 (the deadline to enroll is September 19, 2025). We only have one start per year - connect with an Admissions Coach to enroll today!
