By Carolina de la Cajiga
«My personal search to get out of a physical trauma that affected my body and soul a few years ago led me to study alternative medicine. The techniques, little by little, helped in my recovery. I learned how nutrition, vitamins, and minerals detoxify the body and balance the emotional state. I also studied methodologies that help expand the mind. I was fortunate to train with a doctor who specializes in Ayurvedic medicine from India. All this knowledge was fundamental in getting me back to my usual energy and keeping me healthy,» says Casiano.
After much time, work, and effort, Gisela regained her health and mood. She realized the expertise she had acquired could be shared with others to help them navigate the increasingly complex world of alternative medicine, which can be frustrating for first-timers and confuse those who don’t have the time or skill to do their own research. On the other hand, this type of alternative healing is increasingly recognized in its own right and is an ideal complement to conventional medicine. Gisela’s master’s degree in food science from the Universidad de las Americas, Cholula, Puebla, was the ideal base that, in addition to her work experience in food companies, rounded out her formal and practical education.
Three years ago Gisela opened the doors of G Hierbas, where you can find a wide selection of local and imported products that she has selected for their proven qualities. In addition, she offers advice on which supplements are the most appropriate to improve or maintain physical and emotional health at any age.
Gisela says, «During the pandemic, I took several online courses in healing therapies to resolve lingering emotional traumas and return the natural, spiritual, and physical vitality. I explored various kinds of meditation as well as the power of the mind to open fresh paths to achieve a balanced life. This has helped me in my personal life, and I feel confident in recommending it to customers who could benefit from it.»
«Something that sets G Hierbas apart is the personalized attention we offer. I am available to talk with people about their specific health needs until I find the right supplement or combination most suitable for them. My greatest reward is when satisfied customers return to thank me,» Gisela says with great pride.
«I remember once an elderly English-speaking customer came to the store extremely upset. After talking to her, I realized she was having a panic attack. I carefully calmed her down by asking her to imitate the rhythm of my breathing and guided her until she was able to relax. Once she had settled, I explained to her that the best we can do in situations like this is to take deep breaths that reach the abdomen, inflate it, and, when exhaling, deflate it. This helps the mind to abandon any compulsive or negative thoughts. To fully soothe her, I offered her a flower remedy from Dr. Edward Bach. Eventually, she went home serenely and in peace. It was an intense experience that confirmed the power of the mind and that of the alternative medicine approach, which does not cause additional damage to the body as conventional medications can sometimes do,» Gisela said with emotion.
With so many people in San Miguel de Allende interested in prevention to maintain a full life and not wanting to lose their health, G Hierbas has been received so well that Gisela has already opened a branch in San Antonio to better serve her clientele. «It gives me great satisfaction to have the knowledge and tools to help people who come to me with health issues they haven’t resolved,» mentions Gisela. «It fills me with joy sharing my own experience and helping others.»
To stay up to date with the advances and discoveries of alternative medical sciences, Gisela continues her studies. She is now learning about the pineal gland, which Eastern philosophy recognizes as the third eye, found between the eyebrows and related to the sixth chakra, one of the energy points in the body. Once activated, the gland helps increase perception and energy levels. Gisela is particularly interested in the benefits of relaxation and the reduction of anxiety that awakening the gland produces, leading to a balanced life and spiritual harmony.
To maintain her stability, Gisela likes to walk with Frijol, her mini terrier, also to be with friends, and, most of all, to live and enjoy life with her teenage daughter, Valentina.
Gisela’s motto is «Expand, serve, share, and heal.” She says, «It’s not always easy. Human beings are capable of reflecting and changing course although there are times when we think it is an impossible hill to climb.» Gisela laughs recalling the Mexican adage, Con poco pinole nos ahogamos (With just a bit of pinole [roasted dry powdered corn], we choke. She then adds, “It is precisely when we find ourselves in situations that seem impossible to navigate that we must stop, take a deep breath, and turn inward to pick ourselves up and, once again, move forward.»
The hours of operation of the two G Hierbas stores are from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Saturday. The addresses are Relox 104, Centro, and Potrero 6, in Colonia San Antonio. On Facebook: @ghierbas, Instagram: @ghierbas, and WhatsApp 415 688 2319.
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