Meet Monica Valdez | Owner & Director of Soul Healing OC. Reiki Master Teacher & Yoga Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Monica Valdez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monica, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After many years of working with individuals navigating complex trauma—through yoga therapy and Reiki energy healing—I felt called to create a warm, nurturing space where people feel truly safe to heal.
Healing, I’ve learned through both experience and ongoing study, is not a path we walk alone. It unfolds in the presence of compassionate guidance and within the safety of a supportive community.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Like many yoga teachers, I found myself displaced during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the aftermath, I opened a small private office, intending to offer one-on-one sessions in both Reiki and yoga therapy.
To my surprise, nearly all of my clients—99%—came seeking Reiki energy healing. I believe this reflected a deep, collective need for emotional and energetic healing after the trauma of lockdown. People were yearning not just for wellness, but for a safe space to share, to feel, and to begin again.
Despite the meaningful one-on-one work I was doing, I found myself longing for the shared energy of public group classes and the sense of connection that comes with a yoga community. I searched for a space where I felt I could belong—but nothing felt quite right. So, I let that intention go, trusting the universe to guide the way.

Soon after, an opportunity to open a studio presented itself. I knew I couldn’t do it alone. That’s when my youngest daughter stepped in. Wanting a stay-at-home job while caring for her young son, she offered to help me run the studio—and she’s been absolutely instrumental ever since. Together, we poured our hearts into building something from the ground up.

We supported each other through every step, working day and night to bring the vision to life.
You could say it’s more than a studio—it’s a family-owned, woman-led space born from love, resilience, and shared purpose.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We’d start the morning with a yoga and meditation session at the studio—perhaps incorporating crystals to set intentions and raise the energy.
From there, we’d stroll to one of the many nearby coffee shops for a cozy breakfast or light meal, soaking in the vibes of downtown Fullerton. After that, a peaceful walk through town or a nearby nature trail would give us time to connect with the earth, breathe fresh air, and simply be.

Once we’d worked up a bit of an appetite, we’d find our way to one of the area’s hip, inviting cafes for lunch—thankfully, we’re surrounded by plenty of great options.

We’d return to the studio in the afternoon for a deeply relaxing energy healing session, followed by a gentle yoga practice to wind down the evening—complete with all the props for maximum comfort and restoration.

It’s a day of movement, stillness, connection, and soul nourishment—just the way healing is meant to be.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe so much of my growth and inspiration to the mentors who have guided me with wisdom and love.
My very first yoga teacher and trainer, Bonnie Knight—who I affectionately call my yoga mother—laid the foundation for everything I do. Her teachings continue to live in my work every day.
Equally, I’m deeply grateful to Kristen Fewel, my Reiki Master and teacher, whose presence and unwavering support have been a constant source of guidance on this path.
And lastly, to the heart of it all: my community—the students and fellow teachers who have embraced me and the healing space we share. Your trust and openness have shaped this journey more than words can express.

Website: https://soulhealingoc.com

Instagram: soulhealingoc

Image Credits
Jacine Valdez