Hola, my name is Odette Cressler. I was born and raised in Guadalajara and have been living in San Diego for 12 years. I share my home with my husband, two kids, and our two dogs. We enjoy discovering and rediscovering all that San Diego has to offer. We love hiking, the beach, and being outside. My heart has always been in the hospitality industry, where I have had the opportunity to show people the value of experiences that can't be taken home. After working in the restaurant industry, I transitioned into operations in recent years, and I currently work as an Account Specialist at Chosen Foods. In addition, I have been in recovery from an eating disorder for over ten years. I was also diagnosed with clinical depression at the age of 14, and have been actively managing my mental health ever since. I dedicate a significant amount of my free time to projects that support individuals in recovery and those struggling with mental health issues. Currently, I am training to become a breathwork practitioner, as breathwork has played a crucial role in my healing journey. I also love the podcast world! For two years, I hosted the Recovery Elevator podcast, and I recently joined Chris Powell's new show, "I Needed That," as a manager. Running is another passion of mine, and I hope to participate in the Berlin marathon next year. While I may not be a perfect parent, I take pride in my parenting approach. I am always open to learning, always open to repairing, and always showing my kids what a fulfilled mom looks like - no matter the challenges.

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Do you have a moment when you realized your phone was getting in the way of what’s important to you?

For me, it has been a compilation of tiny moments: seeing books on my nightstand that I could have read, doing an inventory of my days and thinking about the moments I could have been present with my kids or spouse, and looking up to see my dog staring at me... All of these, combined with my intention of living a more present life, have really nudged me towards changing my relationship with my phone.

Tell us a story about how Aro has impacted your relationship with your kids.

There have been multiple occasions where we have a special event and my kids will turn around and ask, "Mom, will you leave your phone in the Aro box?" This is so meaningful. It shows me that my kids have learned to assert themselves, that they see their value, and that they know to ask for what they need. The Aro box provides us with an opportunity to truly connect, and they fully grasp that concept, which is very neat. I am excited for them to learn this lesson before they even get their own phones (which, hopefully, won't be until they are 40... kidding :)).

I’m happiest when…

I am outside, connecting with nature and my family! Whether it's hiking in the mountains or simply breathing in the fresh air, being outdoors brings me a lot of joy.

What is the Cressler family's favorite holiday tradition?

Día de los Muertos! I am 100% Mexican. Setting up our altar every year is becoming something that the kids are eagerly anticipating as they grow older. Celebrating the dead and honoring the importance of family is very important to us.

You're a breathwork practitioner in training...why is breathwork so important?

The breath connects our mind to our heart. Sometimes, we are just thinking (mind), and other times, we are just feeling (heart). When we incorporate conscious breathing into our daily lives, we are able to create a bridge between our thoughts and our feelings. This matters. Breathing is also a direct portal to the present moment - it’s a resource that is always accessible to us, yet often overlooked. I am excited to finish my certification and to guide others through breathwork ceremonies.