Host KL Wells welcomes Elicia Ybarra, founder of Pretty Hands Hard Punches, for a powerful conversation about resilience, healing, and empowerment. Drawing from her upbringing in a family affected by addiction, Elicia shares how martial arts became her refuge and ultimately her life’s passion. She opens up about navigating postpartum depression, ADHD, and trauma, and how therapy, boundary-setting, and self-education have been essential in her journey. Elicia’s work focuses on redefining self-defense for women, emphasizing the importance of boundaries, authenticity, and storytelling in healing from the impact of addiction.Key Discussion Points:Growing up in a household affected by addiction and chaosFinding safety and self-worth through martial artsThe challenges of boundary-setting in dysfunctional environmentsNavigating postpartum depression and seeking effective therapyThe impact of ADHD and trauma on personal growthThe importance of changing environments and support systemsRedefining self-defense beyond physical techniques to include emotional and mental boundariesThe role of authenticity and storytelling in healing and empowering othersSome Questions I Ask:What was your early childhood like, and how did you find your way out of that environment?How did martial arts become a refuge for you?What led you to seek therapy, and how did you find the right support?How did your experiences with postpartum depression and ADHD shape your healing journey?What are the foundational tools you use for managing trauma and triggers?How do you teach your students about boundaries and self-defense beyond the physical?What advice do you have for those loving someone with addiction?In This Episode, You Will Learn:How childhood experiences with addiction can shape self-worth and boundariesThe transformative power of martial arts as a tool for healing and empowermentPractical strategies for managing trauma, including EMDR and grounding techniquesWhy changing your environment can be critical to mental health recoveryThe importance of finding the right therapist and being intentional about healingHow to identify and set healthy boundaries in all areas of lifeThe value of authenticity and sharing your story to break cycles of isolationResources:Connect with Elicia Ybarra:Instagram & Social: @prettyhandshardpunchesWebsite: prettyhandshardpunches.comFree Resource:Download Elicia’s “Ideal U Worksheet” to help you define your boundaries and envision your empowered self. Get the worksheet here (Get it Free! Use promo code: IdealYou).Recommended Reading:The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der KolkPodcast Host:Learn more about KL Wells and the podcast at Voices InCourageReady to take back your power?Connect with Elicia, download your free worksheet, and start setting boundaries that honor your worth. If you found this episode meaningful, share it with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone.

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