Vanessa has been practicing Buddhist principles for over 7 years, with a special focus on Engaged Buddhism, pioneered by Thich Nhat Hanh. She holds a 200hr Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification, Professional Designation (CMT-P), from The Lab of Meditation, recognized by The International Mindfulness Teacher's Association. This training is grounded in Buddhism and specialized in trauma-informed offerings and social justice. She also received somatics training through Staci Haines' “Politics of Trauma” course, focused on social justice and building collective soma.