Podcast Show Notes: Within You – Conversation with Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara

Episode Overview: In this episode of "Within You," host Vivi welcomes Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara, professor at the University of New Mexico and a key figure in the Curanderismo (Traditional Medicine without Borders) program. Vivi and Dr. Guevara discuss the journey of cultural reclamation, the evolution of traditional medicine education, and the importance of community support for sustaining these programs.

Key Topics Covered:

Vivi’s journey to reclaim her heritage and the role of the University of New Mexico’s program in that process.

The history and growth of the Curanderismo program, from its origins in Texas to its expansion in New Mexico and its recent online presence.

The significance of making traditional medicine accessible to both university students and community members.

The challenges of funding and the critical role of community donations in keeping the program alive.

The program's impact on students reconnecting with their roots and the healing power of cultural knowledge.

A deep dive into the history of Texas, the complexities of identity, and the importance of understanding one’s ancestry.

Many Mexican-American families experience the duality of assimilation and cultural pride.

The value of intergenerational conversations and learning from elders.

The universal need for belonging, healing, and cultural affirmation.

Notable Quotes from Dr. Mario Del Angel-Guevara:

“Culture heals. Not all medicines are in a pill form, and not all medicines are in physical form. Medicine can come in many ways, in many forms, in many shapes.”

“We are much more mixed than we think we are—culturally, linguistically, ethnically.”

“Our role, our duty now is to reclaim it, to educate our people, to empower our people, and that’s our part now.”

Resources & Links:

University of New Mexico Curanderismo Program: curanderismo.unm.edu

Donate to support the Curanderismo program (203587): University of New Mexico Foundation - 2022 Lightning Giving Form – Your Gift

Recommended reading: El Alamo by Paco Ignacio Taibo II

Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, consider supporting the Curanderismo program through a donation, enrolling in a course, or sharing this episode with others on a similar journey of cultural reclamation.

Connect:

With Your Host: Vivi @ vivian@viviancarrasco.com

Our Honored Guest: Dr. Mario Del Angel Guevara, University of New Mexico, curanderismo@unm.edu

Thank you for listening. Stay connected, stay curious, and remember: you are not alone on your journey.

In this heartfelt and introspective episode, I share some of my personal journey of discovering what it takes to "know" the right thing to do. I reflect on my 34-year marriage and how I learned to rely on my inner guidance rather than external advice. In this platica I emphasizes the importance of self-trust, patience, and recognizing one's own truth, drawing upon life's experiences and the concept of living with intention.

The episode invites listeners to explore their inner knowing through various creative mediums and acknowledges the fluid nature of life's truths. It ends with a message of gratitude and an invitation to engage in deeper conversations about self-discovery and inner guidance.

00:00 Introduction and Gratitude

00:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery

05:10 The Right Thing to Do

06:01 Personal Story: Marriage and Family

10:52 Understanding Your Inner Guidance

17:21 The Dance of Knowing

22:32 Exploring Your Own Creation

24:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What Does It Take to Know the Right Thing to Do?

Have you ever found yourself wrestling with the question, “What’s the right thing to do?” If so, you’re not alone. This question has followed me throughout my life, from my childhood in a large Catholic family in West Texas, through my early marriage, and into the work I do today.

For a long time, I believed the “right thing” was something outside of myself—something I could find in a book, a statistic, or someone else’s advice. I remember, early in my marriage, sitting across from my husband with a stack of books and statistics, convinced that the numbers said we should get a divorce. But instead of a fight, he gently closed the books, took my hand, and said, “Let’s make dinner.” Thirty-four years later, we’re still together, and I’m grateful every day that we trusted our own path over someone else’s predictions.

The Truth Is Within

What I’ve learned is that the “right thing” isn’t a fixed answer or a universal rule. Life is always changing, and so are we. The right thing for you today might not be the right thing tomorrow. It’s not about reaching a destination, but about following your own guiding star—your sense of purpose, your intuition, your heart.

We each have our own truth, shaped by our experiences, values, and unique perspectives. Honoring that truth means listening deeply to yourself, even when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain. It means recognizing that your journey is yours alone, and that’s what makes it beautiful.

How Do You Know?

So, what does it take to know what the right thing to do is? It takes trust in yourself. It takes grace, compassion, and patience. It takes the willingness to explore your own world, to experiment, to make mistakes, and to learn from them. Sometimes, it’s as simple as pausing, tuning in, and asking, “What feels true for me right now?”

There’s no single formula, no one-size-fits-all answer. For some, the journey might feel like climbing a mountain; for others, it’s floating down a river. The important thing is to keep moving, keep listening, and keep learning.

An Invitation

If you’re struggling with a big decision or just feeling lost, I invite you to practice listening to your own knowing. Journal your thoughts, take a walk, create something, or simply sit in silence. Notice what resonates, what makes your heart dance, and what feels like “home” inside you.

Remember: the right thing to do is already within you. Trust yourself, and let your journey unfold.

If this reflection resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts or continue the conversation.

Until then, keep exploring, keep creating, and keep trusting in your own unique path. We forge it, because if you can see it clearly it's likely not yours, it's just a trail left behind others who've walked in the same direction.

Dios Te Bendiga

Vivi

In today's world of endless scrolling and momentary interactions, a rare gem of wisdom can sometimes grace our screens. It was during one of these limited scrolls that I stumbled upon a heartwarming post—a gentleman highlighting his father's personality. It took me back to cherished memories of my grandmother and the wisdom passed down through my dad’s anecdotes. It made me pause and reflect on the narratives I choose to elevate in my own life.

Growing up with four sisters and a brother, I realized from an early age how the same event could appear so different through each of our unique lenses. Despite sharing experiences, we were each an entire world unto ourselves. As I navigated through years of education and various life paths, it became evident that understanding the layers of miracles within and around us was an ongoing endeavor. Fascinatingly, figuring it all out remains elusive, but that doesn’t deter my pursuit of meaning.

Life, as you know, is far from devoid of challenges. Everyone carries traumas, small or significant. However, reaching out for help or offering a steadying hand can make all the difference. That’s my reason for being here—to extend a metaphorical hand through this effort. Though limited by time and space, my voice aims to provide comfort and support.

In directing our lives, we hold the power to shift course, much like a ship's captain avoiding unseen icebergs or steering toward breathtaking sunsets. We narrate our own experiences and possess the agency to choose what we ingest, both literally and figuratively. Recently, certain habits—like green juices and endless cups of tea—have nourished my body, mind, and heart.

With guidance from moments of inspiration, I find the courage to step towards this endeavor, embracing the inherent vulnerability it involves. Aligning with one's true purpose creates an effortless flow, where engagement nourishes rather than depletes. Right now, I sit in a comfortable chair, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the legacy of those who’ve come before me.

Let us take a moment—reach out with your palm up, as if to connect with an ancestor or ally. Envisioning this connection is deeply nourishing. It’s a simple act to remind ourselves of our inner strength and the support available to us at any time. For me, acknowledging this interconnectedness is especially crucial when life's challenges feel most daunting.

As we part for now, remember—a guiding phrase that encapsulates much of my existence is to "give it all you've got." That’s just the way it is. Until next time, I am thankful for having found my way to your heart through your ears, and as you go forward, may you know there are numerous ways to connect with me.

I welcome your prayers and assure you that you remain in mine. Be well, give what you can, and cherish this life.

May this message find you when you need it most, and serve as a gentle hand to hold in your moments of reflection and need.

00:00 Reflecting on Wisdom and Social Media

01:28 Curiosity About People and Experiences

02:54 Navigating Life's Challenges and Seeking Help

04:56 The Power of Agency and Healthy Habits

06:45 Embracing Courage and Alignment

08:28 Connecting with Ancestors and Allies

11:08 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

You may think it’s your light that gives you power.

When actually it’s your ability to see in the dark

I’m offering a Novena this season to help us Embrace the Light in the Darkness

The Novena* begins on the Feast of Our Lady and ends the day before Winter Solstice

Enter your email in the form linked below to subscribe to the daily emails.

https://drvivicarrasco.kit.com/novena

COVID-19 and Creative Struggles

The past few years have been transformative. COVID-19 hit hard, leaving us all with memories and experiences that are now etched into our lives. Some of these moments are blessings, while others are tinged with pain and loss. Yet, they all contribute to the polishing of our spirits. For over a decade, I’ve nurtured my creative spirit, struggling and learning as I go.

Creative pursuits have varied from wrapping rocks to weaving and even working with clay. These activities ground me, offering spiritual fulfillment and teaching me to honor the whispers of intuition that call me to create and express.

The Push for Healing and Space

Life’s relentless push can often lead to burnout, but I’ve realized the importance of creating space for myself. This journey of healing and nourishing led me to a deeper understanding of life’s cycles—the daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms that shape us. By embracing healing, I’ve found inspiration that comes only when I’m willing to sit and do the work.

Guidance from Within

This stage of life, with its own set of health challenges, has brought another opportunity for growth. There are whispers that guide me, echoes of a divine message received long ago: to learn to love being human. This journey has taught me acceptance and the courage to speak my truth in a world that values conformity.

Intimate Connections and Invitations

Over the years, I’ve touched many hearts, yet I’ve drawn inward, seeking intimacy in smaller circles. These experiences have nourished my soul, allowing me to connect with those around me in meaningful ways. Now, a new whisper calls me to guide an experience—Advent by Candlelight. This invitation is open to all who feel drawn to explore the mysteries of life through this intimate journey.

Creating Advent by Candlelight

The process of creating Advent by Candlelight is mysterious, yet it’s rooted in the simple act of learning to see in the dark. This experience encourages us to adjust our eyes to the light, guided by the purity of candlelight over time. As details of this event unfold, I invite you to join me in this exploration.

If you feel connected to this idea or know someone who might resonate with it, extend the invitation. Together, we can embark on this journey of inner reflection, allowing inspiration and truth to bubble up from within.

The Magic of Uncertainty

Life’s most magical moments often stem from its mysteries. In embracing uncertainty, we open ourselves to grace and light. I’ve recently found inspiration in Barbara Brown Taylor’s book, “Learning to Walk in the Dark,” which beautifully encapsulates these themes.

As we journey through this advent season together, let us learn to see the brightness that transcends sight. Let us travel by candlelight, embracing the wisdom and grace that accompany us in the dark.

​

Love all ways,

​

Vivi

​PS Because of the magic of technology, it’s never too late to accept the invitation – the emails are in an evergreen sequence, waiting for you and when you’re ready – lovely that it’s never too late and you’re always right on time, isn’t it? 🙂

*Novena is based on the nine days of prayer Jesus asked the apostles to do before Pentecost

*this Novena is one Our Lady has been asking me to do – I pray the experience nourishes both our spirits

Have you ever considered how our ancestors shaped the very essence of who we are today? Their influences are evident in the experiences, values, and traditions that have been passed down through the ages, shaping our identities and guiding our journeys. As we navigate the complexities of our existence, it becomes increasingly clear that our ancestral heritage holds the key to understanding our present selves.

This episode revolves around the intricate relationship of our past and present, as we seek to unravel the threads that bind us to our ancestral heritage. Through introspective reflection, we uncover the stories woven into the fabric of our past and the legacies left by our ancestors. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s find solace and empowerment in the richness of our ancestry!

Show Highlights

• Family lineage and cultural identity.
• Cultural identity and heritage through family stories.
• Ancestral healing, identity, and personal growth.
• Ancestral healing, identity, and personal growth.
• Ancestry, spirituality, and creativity.
• Identity, ancestry, and storytelling.

Links and Resources

Mentoring Services: https://viviancarrasco.com/services/

Contact via call/text: 760-576-5683

Email: vivian@viviancarrasco.com

As we journey through life, we encounter a variety of experiences that shape who we are. It's important for us to accept these experiences and changes that life brings us. When we bravely accept how life changes us, we step out of our comfort zones, deepen our understanding of ourselves, and ultimately manage our own healing and growth.

Join me in this special episode to celebrate the milestone of my 10-year anniversary. Let’s take a moment to pause and reflect on the journey we've traveled together, exploring the profound insights and invaluable lessons that have unfolded along the way. Together, we’ll illuminate the path toward nurturing self-love, fostering inner trust, and cultivating intuitive wisdom.

Show Highlights

• Spiritual growth and inner healing over 10 years.
• Personal growth and self-awareness.
• Personal growth, mysticism, and intuition.
• Self-love, intuition, and inner healing.

Links and Resources

Love Being Human: The Key to Harmony Within You

Contact via call/text: 760-576-5683

Email: vivian@viviancarrasco.com