Random Rave: Resetting my life on a ‘self-care retreat’ with Jodi Sta. Maria
If you personally know me, you know I’ve always had a soft spot for self-improvement. While other kids devoured teen romance novels (well, I also did for a time!), I happily alternated Chicken Soup for the Soul, Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, and every self-help book I could find for my reading needs. Now, as a positive psychology practitioner and a journaling instructor-in-training, I’m always on the lookout for resources that nurture not just the mind, but the spirit too.
So imagine my joy when, last February, I finally got introduced – virtually at least – to a safe space launched by Jodi Sta. Maria, her newly rebranded platform: The JSM Channel on Youtube. I’ve loved foreign channels focused on similar themes but it hits differently when the host is a local. Things become more personal and relatable.
And it’s not just a channel. For me, it’s a self-care and self-love sanctuary.
Evolve. Inspire. Explore.
That’s the tagline, and that’s exactly what this channel offers. Whether you’re in your early 20s, late 30s, mid-40s, or embracing your 50s and beyond, the JSM Channel is a one-stop shop for intentional living. It’s where lifestyle, healing, and soulful storytelling meet—inviting you to pause, reflect, and recharge.
This Holy Week (or any day you’re free!), I’m encouraging you to join me in a mini self-care retreat from home by watching Jodi’s Live Light episodes. These episodes are bite-sized, yet brimming with depth and meaning. They don’t require a retreat house or a three-day silence break. You just need your phone, a quiet moment, and an open heart.
Live Light, Episode 1: Beginning Again
The first episode is themed Beginning Again—and what better time than now to do just that? Jodi opens the conversation with kindness and candor, reminding us that it’s okay to start over. In fact, starting over can be powerful.
This episode helped me reflect on how the fear of the unknown often holds us back from living fully. But Jodi gently walks us through that fear by offering practical tips like:
- Finding your why
- Being kind to yourself
- Taking small, doable steps
- Surrounding yourself with supportive people
- And seeking spiritual guidance
Jodi’s soothing voice and her warm presence, which radiates from the screen, create a comforting space that encourages self-reflection and spiritual connection. It’s as if she’s speaking directly to you. Her voice alone feels like a warm hug and a sip of hot chocolate. The lighting and the colors create the perfect atmosphere.
Live Light, Episode 2: Healing the Inner Child
Ah, the elusive inner child healing. We hear the term often these days—sometimes in jest, especially when justifying retail therapy (You might be at a loss here if you’re not on TikTok)—but here, Jodi unpacks it with grace and depth.
This episode reminds us that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community. In connection. And in creativity.
She touches on:
- How to identify the needs of your inner child
- Why setting healthy boundaries is essential
- The value of reparenting yourself
- And how creative activities can help unlock parts of you that were once forgotten
It’s practical psychology, wrapped in empathy. And it’s worth noting—Jodi isn’t just speaking from personal experience. She’s a BS Psychology graduate and is on her way to pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Psychology. So yes, she knows her stuff.
More Episodes to Reflect With
The Live Light series continues to touch on themes that so many of us quietly struggle with. The next available episodes talk about:
- How to cope with burnout
- What to do when you feel unloved
- Setting boundaries to protect your mental health
- The mindsets and beliefs we need to unlearn to truly grow
- And even how to be smart and intentional with money
Each episode is a gentle invitation to reflect, reset, and realign.
So grab your pen, your journal, your favorite colorful highlighters and markers—yes, make your experience fun. And if you’re like me, someone deeply rooted in faith, I’d encourage you to include some prayer every step of the way.
For Your Soul and Your Laughter: Let’s Drink to That
And if you’re looking for something lighter but just as meaningful, Jodi has something for that, too. In Let’s Drink to That, she teams up with the hilarious Cheena Crab and the ever-witty AC Soriano. It’s like sitting down with your barkada—laughing about life, reflecting a little, and getting a dose of wisdom without even realizing it.
Perfect for those evenings when you just want good vibes and real talk.
Travel Without the Plane Ticket: JSM Travel and Tours
Don’t have the time, energy, or budget to travel? Let Jodi take you places. JSM Travel and Tours gives you a front-row seat to new cities, cultures, and cuisines. It’s a mini escape from your routine, and an enriching experience that can inspire your next dream destination—or simply make you see the world a little differently.
Why This Matters (Especially Now)
This Holy Week—or anytime you need a reset—I invite you to take this gentle nudge toward healing and growth. We don’t always get opportunities to pause. But through the JSM Channel, we’re offered that space.
So, if you’re someone who, like me, has always been drawn to self-help books and quiet inner work or even if you’re just beginning to explore what it means to live with intention—Jodi’s channel is a warm, nurturing place to start.
You don’t need a grand plan. You just need a moment.
And this might just be it.
Come retreat with me at The JSM Channel.
Let’s evolve. Let’s be inspired. Let’s explore.
Together.
Have a meaningful Holy Week.
