Meet Melanie Rae Perez | Multipotentialite: yogi, researcher, student of life

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melanie Rae Perez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melanie Rae, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Growing up I was always afraid to take risks, I was that girl that played it safe, followed the rules, and planned everything out to perfection. This worked for me up until I had no choice but to take a risk. It was either I stay stuck and unhappy, or jump completely into the unknown. With taking risks comes a lot of vulnerability and courage. I found myself trusting my gut, not sure where the journey would lead and feeling extremely uncomfortable, but it was at this point where I found my power and deepest passions. I think taking risks is essential for our growth as human beings. It takes us getting into the uncomfortable and vulnerable stages of life to push us to the place where the most progress can be made.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My current work lies in expanding my knowledge of yoga and the world through practice and research. Right now I find myself working using the modality of yoga as a way to empower, connect, and educate cross-culturally and I want to use this knowledge to aid marginalized communities throughout the world. The heart of yoga is unity and that is what I am trying to do, find a way to unify us all and reconnect to the things that make us human. The one thing that led me to this point in my life is the motivation of those around me. They may not understand my dreams and vision but their support and belief in me has made me push to be and create the best possible version of myself so I can then share it with the world. There are days it feels nearly impossible and my head gets clouded with doubt. On those days I remember what I want from life, who I am supported by, and this is what gets me through to continue on this journey. I am excited about this work because it is constantly unfolding and revealing itself to me. I feel like the lessons are truly endless and that I will continue expanding into this work throughout my lifetime. It was Albert Einstein who is reported to have said, “Once you stop learning, you start dying” and that quote has stayed with me for years. I want to keep diving into knowledge to continuously become a better person as well as help create a better world for us all.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I was born and raised in Miami so all the places I love feel very unique to me. Virginia Key Beach at sunrise is probably one of the best spots to enjoy having a beach to yourself and relax in the sand. My favorite bookstore is in the heart of Coral Gables called Books & Books. They always have a unique selection of great reads coupled with a cozy environment. I AM LunaSol Movement with Bianca Mestre-Cabrero, has the best yoga classes and events in town and you will feel like you’re a part of a beautiful family. There are way too many food places to mention them all, but some of my favorite spots are Maroosh, Ernesto’s Taco Shop, and Greek House Kitchen.

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 am blessed to say I am surrounded by many people who love, support, and push me to do and be better. Everyone has their own unique way that they have inspired me, and I am beyond great for them. A few special mentions: My parents and sister have shown me endless amounts of love and have picked me up on my worst days. Javier Cabrero, who saw what I am capable of before I saw it for myself and continues to push and inspire me to be better. My best friend and soul sister, Bianca Mestre-Cabrero, has continuously shown me the power of being authentic and deeply rooted in one’s truth, which has pushed me to love and accept myself fully. Her and her kids have also been such a light in my life and are my constant reminders to be present. My other best friend, Ashley Gray, has been my fearless cheerleader all the way from England and continuously helps me see the joy in small successes. My research and academic mentor, Grisel d’Elena, has taught me and guided me through so much and always makes me feel my dreams are possible. These special people amongst so many others have really helped shape who I am and who I am becoming. I truly love and thank them all from the bottom of my heart.

Website: https://theblissyogi.offeringtree.com

Instagram: @melanie_rae_perez

Linkedin: Melanie Rae Perez

Facebook: Melanie Rae Perez

Other: email: theblissyogi@gmail.com

Image Credits
Some pictures are taken by me and others are taken by the amazing Otto, check out @fotosdeotto on Instagram!