Illuminating Pathways to Self-Care Mastery
Dr. Monica Bickerstaff Riley’s life journey unfolds as a mesmerizing tale woven with resilience, ancestral wisdom, academic prowess, and an unwavering commitment to self-care—a beacon inspiring generations to embrace their essence and honor the art of self-care.
The genesis of her entrepreneurial venture traces back to the heartwarming confines of her Nana’s kitchen—a sanctuary where aromatic elixirs were brewed, and comforting scents wafted through the air. Witnessing her Nana craft healing remedies ingrained in Monica a belief that echoed through generations: “No woman should sacrifice her vim, vigor, or vitality; no matter what stage of life she’s in.” This ethos fueled the birth of Dr. Monica’s Natural Beauty, LLC, a narrative steeped in Afro-Indigenous legacy, echoing longevity, and healing traditions. Monica’s roots, deeply entwined in family wisdom spanning a century, became the cornerstone of her enterprise.
Amidst achievements and triumphs, Monica encountered profound tribulations. The consecutive loss of her paternal grandmother and beloved father shook her foundation. Grief threatened to shroud her life’s purpose. Yet, buoyed by faith, familial support, and an unyielding commitment, Monica emerged as a paragon of strength—a testament to her resilience.
Monica’s fervor for self-care resonates as the very essence of her being. Her impassioned advocacy implores individuals, especially women aged 40 and above, particularly those with melanated beauty, to embrace their inherent worth through daily self-care rituals. She passionately advocates that addressing underlying issues is paramount, preventing their insidious manifestation into physical maladies. Her vision paints a world where self-acknowledgment becomes an inviolable norm.
Describing herself as the Tiger amidst the rat race, Monica embodies grace, strength, and a rebellious spirit that defies convention. She champions freedom, epitomizing the essence of the Tiger—a symbol of protection, vitality, and unpredictability. Her philosophy echoes with the resonance of grit, grace, and boundless gratitude, leaving an indelible impression on all fortunate enough to cross paths with her.
Dr. Monica Bickerstaff Riley’s illustrious academic journey encompasses a myriad of prestigious achievements, showcasing her multifaceted brilliance and unwavering commitment to holistic wellness. Her educational milestones include graduating Summa Cum Laude with a BA in English/Africana Studies from Vassar College, followed by attaining an MSJ (Master of Science in Journalism) from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. Furthering her pursuit of holistic health sciences, she earned a Naturopathic Medical Degree (NMD) in Integrative Medicine from The Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, enriching her expertise in anxiety and PTSD trauma healing as a Certified Coach from the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health.
In the realm of media and academia, Monica’s impact resonates deeply. Her tenure as Executive Producer at PBS/WLIW-TV garnered accolades, boasting two Emmy Awards for Best Documentary. Additionally, her contributions to academia as an Adjunct Professor at The College of Southern Nevada since 2006, alongside her co-founding role in The Sankofa English Initiative, signify her dedication to education and community enrichment. Her entrepreneurial prowess shines through her stint in retail with Dr. Monica’s Natural Beauty, LLC at MACYS and her significant roles in humanitarian efforts such as The Women of Global Change, Inc., The Embracing Project, and Project Marilyn, Inc. In 2022, Dr. Monica was bestowed the prestigious award – Las Vegas Woman of Power in Non-Profit Leadership. These accomplishments prove her commitment to excellence, leadership, and the holistic well-being of individuals and communities alike.
For Monica, leadership transcends the mere creation of followers; it entails nurturing a legion of empowered leaders. Her leadership ethos pivots around a heart-centered approach, devoid of ego, empowering others to embrace their confidence unreservedly. Her fervent belief rests in women uplifting one another—a poignant demonstration of her leadership philosophy.
As her story of resilience and dedication unfolds, Monica’s reflections echo the significance of confronting fears, fostering gratitude, and co-creating an optimistic future. Her words linger as guiding beacons, urging readers to cherish simplicity and embrace their inner luminosity.
“Be an unapologetic disruptor! Stand steadfast in your faith. You cannot be fully present in your life if you are preoccupied in your head. Be connected to your body and soul to gain full access to your inner power. You must LOVE what you do and do what you LOVE,” Dr. Monica motivates.
Dr. Monica’s legacy transcends temporal confines, inspiring individuals to embrace their essence, stand tall in their skin, and champion self-care as an indispensable facet of life. As she ardently affirms, “Self-Care IS Healthcare,”™—her luminary tale continues to illuminate paths for those seeking guidance and inspiration.
