As a Latina mother raising a child who is neurodivergent and then finding out I’m neurodivergent myself, practicing mindfulness has transformed my approach to wellness, for both myself and my family. Each day brings new joys and challenges, but mindfulness offers a grounding practice that helps me be truly present in each moment. This isn’t just about being calm; it’s about learning to connect with my child on a deeper level, with empathy and awareness, and without the noise of stress or self-criticism clouding my actions. Mindfulness teaches me to pause, to breathe, and to check in with my emotions before reacting.

In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to get swept up in expectations—our own, our families’, and society’s. However, when I center myself through mindfulness, I feel empowered to support my child authentically, with patience and a clearer mind. This practice also helps me find self-compassion, something I’ve realized is essential in this journey.

In the Latino culture, family bonds are deep and resilience is celebrated, yet there can be pressure to “hold it all together.” For me, mindfulness is a way to honor that resilience while also making space to acknowledge my own needs, fears, and moments of vulnerability.

Through mindfulness, I’ve learned to look beyond my own experiences and see the world through my child’s eyes, free of judgment and comparison. This perspective helps me embrace each small milestone with genuine joy and acceptance, and to trust in our unique journey. Mindfulness, as a practice, doesn’t remove the challenges we face, but it equips us with tools to navigate them with strength and compassion, allowing me to cultivate a supportive, peaceful environment that celebrates our family’s unique path.