Community Spotlight: Liberty Apolinario

“Community Spotlight” is a new segment where we discuss mental health themes/topics with community members, leaders and agencies in Long Beach and Los Angeles. 

Interviewer: Hey! Thank you for sharing your time and wisdom with our readers. Today, we’ll be discussing mental health, movement and inclusivity. Please start off by introducing yourself. 

Interviewee: Hey there! My name is Liberty Apolinario. I’m a 200hr RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher) and Mindful Movement Facilitator, here to share inclusive wellness and spiritual enrichment to all. I’ve been teaching for over 5 years and practicing for nearly 10 years now. 

Interviewer: Let’s start with why mental health, mindful movement, and inclusivity are so important to discuss. 

Interviewee: Well, I believe these topics are important because it’s truly not discussed enough! There’s power in vulnerability and being authentic. Mental health has been such a taboo topic, and maybe in some cultures more than others. It’s beautiful to see more people beginning to dive into the many layers of “health,” or “wellness.” 

On the other side of that coin, I know people are realizing how wellness is not as accessible for all as it should be.

I firmly believe that the same creator that made me and you, also made this thing called “mindful movement,” for two reasons. 

1. To CELEBRATE this life and vessel that we’ve been given exactly as is and as it changes. 

2. To make great things happen. 

I’ve practiced yoga in spaces where I felt like I didn’t belong, or stuck out like a sore thumb whether it was because I am a fuller figured woman or because of my skin tone. I’m here to make space for those who felt the same way. To show representation and hold space for any body, encouraging folks to embrace this gift called life. 

Interviewer: Thank you for addressing that. I’m curious to learn more about the impact this has on the community/population you support? 

Interviewee: Whether you take a workshop or class of mine, here is my intention. My deepest hopes are for people to feel seen, heard, acknowledged, deeply loved as they are, and to find their connection to our Creator a little bit stronger than before. 

Interviewer: With that said, what are some major takeaways, tools or resources you can share with all of us as we navigate mental health, mindful movement, and inclusivity. 

Interviewee: Yes! Definitely get connected with the community around you. Check out some amazing non profits and spaces in the Long Beach and SELA area like Kubo LB / Kubo Co-op, and My Comunidad. 

Interviewer: What a gift to have you join us today- Where can our readers learn more about your work?

Follow me on instagram at @lib.beyondmeasure to stay in touch and to be the first to know about my upcoming workshops and events!