· By Priscila Martinez
Taking Up Space in Wellness: Lessons from Atalie Oliva, MBA
For many Latinas, caring for others comes naturally. Caring for ourselves often comes last.
Whether it's family responsibilities, work, or community obligations, we're often taught that putting ourselves first is selfish. But what if self-care isn't about choosing ourselves over others—it's about making sure we have enough to give?
In Episode 4 of the Buena Cura Podcast, Atalie Oliva, MBA, shares why wellness is about more than bubble baths or morning routines. It's about reclaiming our voice, setting healthy boundaries, and believing that we deserve to take up space.
Wellness Means Taking Up Space
One of Atalie's biggest messages is simple:
"We deserve to take up space in wellness."
For many first- and second-generation Latinas, wellness can feel like something created for everyone else. Atalie encourages us to redefine it in a way that reflects our culture, our experiences, and what truly supports our well-being.
Taking up space means recognizing that our needs matter too.
Self-Care Starts with Boundaries
Healthy boundaries aren't about pushing people away—they're about protecting your time, energy, and peace.
Learning to say no, asking for help, or making time for rest allows us to show up more fully for the people and communities we care about.
As Atalie reminds us, taking care of ourselves is essential, not selfish.
Healing Leaders Create Healthier Communities
The conversation also explores how personal healing influences the way we lead.
Whether you're a parent, manager, teacher, or community member, your emotional well-being shapes how you support others.
As Atalie puts it:
"Healing leaders heal workplaces."
When leaders prioritize empathy, boundaries, and self-awareness, they create environments where others feel seen, supported, and valued.
The Power of Pausing
In a world that celebrates constant productivity, Atalie encourages us to pause before reacting or making decisions.
Even a few moments to breathe, reflect, or journal can help us respond with greater intention instead of operating on autopilot.
Small daily practices create space for clarity, resilience, and emotional balance.
Spirituality Can Look Different for Everyone
Atalie also shares that spirituality doesn't have to fit one definition.
For some, it's rooted in faith. For others, it's found in nature, meditation, community, creativity, or quiet moments of reflection.
The important part is discovering practices that help you feel grounded, connected, and aligned with your values.
Healing Happens Together
One of the strongest themes throughout the episode is the importance of community.
Healing becomes more sustainable when we support one another, share our stories, and remind each other that we're not meant to carry everything alone.
When Latinas encourage other Latinas to rest, grow, and take up space, everyone benefits.
Listen to the Full Episode
If you've ever struggled to prioritize yourself or wondered what wellness can truly look like for Latinas, this conversation is a thoughtful reminder that your well-being matters.
Listen to the full episode of the Buena Cura Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts to hear Atalie Oliva's insights on self-care, leadership, healing, and building stronger communities.