Meet Arielle Schmidt | Thai Yoga Therapy Practitioner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Arielle Schmidt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arielle, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?

Balancing work and personal life has always been a challenge, especially as an entrepreneur. When you’re running your own business, you’re essentially involved in every aspect, from marketing and networking to payroll and scheduling. It often feels like there’s an endless list of tasks demanding your attention. When I first embarked on my journey with Tranquility Rising, I can honestly say there was no semblance of balance whatsoever.

At that time, I was already employed full-time, clocking in more than 60 hours a week as a corrections officer. Yet, I was determined to lay the foundation for my business’s success, so I kept my job while also taking on clients on the side to build up my venture. Looking back, I wouldn’t recommend this approach to anyone. It’s a surefire recipe for burnout, as I learned the hard way. Trying to sidestep the inevitable risks only speeds up your journey to exhaustion.

After about six grueling months of this relentless grind, I had an epiphany. Not only was I neglecting my own well-being, but I also realized that Tranquility Rising couldn’t flourish if I remained divided between two career paths. So, armed with the savings I had stashed away, I took the leap into full-time entrepreneurship. It’s been nearly seven years since that decision, and while I still wrestle with putting work aside because there always seem to be small crises popping up, I have discovered some strategies that have greatly improved my work-life balance.

Firstly, I firmly believe in taking two consecutive days off, no matter what. One day is devoted to catching up on household chores and tasks, while the other is reserved for rest and leisure with friends or family. This dual-day break allows for a much-needed reset.

Secondly, I’ve established dedicated work hours. After a certain point in the day, I turn my phone to “do not disturb” mode. I’ve come to understand that most work-related “fires” can wait until the next morning. Setting this boundary has significantly reduced the intrusion of work into my personal life.

Lastly, I’ve integrated self-care into my daily routine. Whether it’s taking a brief morning stroll with my dog, practicing a short meditation session during the day, or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, I’ve found small windows of time to prioritize self-care. These moments help me rejuvenate and maintain a healthier work-life equilibrium.

Achieving work-life balance as an entrepreneur is an ongoing journey, but by implementing these strategies, I’ve been able to make significant improvements and prioritize my well-being while still growing my business.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’d be delighted to provide more insight into my business and share what makes it unique. Tranquility Rising is more than just a business to me; it’s a holistic wellness practice that I’ve poured my heart and soul into.

What sets Tranquility Rising apart is our holistic approach to well-being. We focus on the mind, body, and spirit connection, offering a range of services such as Thai Yoga Bodywork, meditation, and energy healing. We believe that true wellness encompasses not only physical health but also mental and emotional balance. This holistic perspective allows us to provide a comprehensive and personalized experience for our clients.

I’m most proud of the positive impact we’ve had on our clients’ lives. Witnessing their transformation and growth as they embrace holistic wellness is incredibly fulfilling. It’s these moments of empowerment and self-discovery that drive me forward every day.

Building Tranquility Rising wasn’t easy. Like any entrepreneurial journey, it came with its fair share of challenges. Initially, the most daunting hurdle was making the decision to transition from a stable job as a corrections officer to pursuing my passion full-time. The financial security I was accustomed to suddenly vanished, and I had to navigate the uncertainty of entrepreneurship.

To overcome these challenges, I relied on perseverance, a clear vision, and a support network of mentors and friends. I sought guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, continuously educated myself, and adapted to market trends. I also learned the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success and staying resilient in the face of setbacks.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the significance of self-care and maintaining a work-life balance. As someone deeply committed to helping others find balance in their lives, I realized that I needed to practice what I preach. It’s essential to prioritize my own well-being to be the best version of myself for my clients and my business.

What I want the world to know about Tranquility Rising is that we are here to guide individuals on their journey to holistic wellness. We’re not just a service provider but a partner in helping people achieve balance, inner peace, and a greater sense of purpose in their lives. Our commitment to fostering well-being, both within ourselves and in our clients, is at the core of everything we do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Cincinnati for a week, I’d want to ensure they have an unforgettable time exploring the city’s vibrant culture, culinary scene, and entertainment options. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Welcome to Cincinnati

Start the trip with dinner at Mita’s, a fantastic restaurant offering modern, upscale Latin cuisine. Be sure to try their signature dishes and cocktails.

Day 2: Exploring the City

Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Cincinnati Music Hall, a stunning venue with a rich history. Even if there isn’t a specific event, the architecture alone is worth seeing.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Cincinnati Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of art from various cultures and time periods.
In the evening, catch a game or event at one of Cincinnati’s sporting venues like Great American Ball Park or Paul Brown Stadium, depending on the season.

Day 3: Riverfront and History

Head to the beautiful Cincinnati Riverfront for a leisurely stroll along the Ohio River and enjoy the views.
Visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to delve into Cincinnati’s role in the Underground Railroad and the fight for freedom.
In the evening, have dinner at one of the great restaurants in the Banks Entertainment District, which offers a variety of dining options.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Cincinnati Zoo

Take a day trip to the world-renowned Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, home to an array of fascinating animals and beautiful gardens.

Day 5: Over-the-Rhine Adventure

Spend the day exploring the trendy Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene.
Visit local breweries like Rhinegeist Brewery or Taft’s Ale House for craft beers.
Enjoy dinner at one of the many fantastic restaurants in the area, like Sotto or The Eagle OTR for comfort food.

Day 6: Nature and Parks

Spend the day at Cincinnati Nature Center or Cincinnati Parks, where you can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and immersing yourself in nature.
Have a casual dinner at a local favorite like Terry’s Turf Club, known for its delicious burgers.

Day 7: Final Adventures

Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, an architectural masterpiece that houses several museums, including the Cincinnati History Museum.

Conclude the trip with a farewell dinner at a top-notch restaurant like Boca or Jean-Robert’s Table.
Throughout the week, make sure to explore the city’s many neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. Cincinnati is a city of hidden gems and friendly locals, so don’t be afraid to strike up conversations and ask for recommendations along the way. Enjoy your time in the Queen City!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Let me recount a pivotal moment that fundamentally altered my perspective on entrepreneurship. When I initially embarked on the journey of becoming a holistic practitioner, I didn’t envision it as a career change; it was more about personal development and self-awareness. However, during my second Thai Yoga Training in a single year, a momentous conversation with my instructor, Alex Ryberg, left an indelible mark on me.

During a one-on-one session, Alex posed a simple yet profound question: “What do you see for your future?” My response was that I had a five-year plan to gradually establish my own business and eventually leave my job as a corrections officer. Her reply, delivered with unwavering simplicity, struck me like a bolt of lightning: “Why can’t you go home and quit tomorrow?” It triggered a wave of anxiety and panic within me.

Numerous factors, primarily rooted in financial security, were holding me back. But that question continued to gnaw at my conscience day after day, especially when I returned to my role as a corrections officer. The relentless overtime demands and even forced work on my days off pushed me to my limit. After enduring a grueling stretch of 14 consecutive days, working the maximum hours possible, that once-quiet voice had transformed into a deafening roar, echoing, “WHY CAN’T YOU JUST QUIT?!?!”

And so, that’s precisely what I did. I made the life-altering decision to resign from my position, and I’ve never looked back since. This pivotal moment, ignited by Alex’s daring question and the support of others, paved the way for my entrepreneurial journey, and I owe a debt of gratitude to all those who encouraged me to take that courageous step.

Website: TranquilityRising.com

Instagram: Tranquility_Rising

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/arielle-schmidt-9a3892113

Facebook: Tranquility Rising

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHWxF2VejTep5pCdKmEctng

Image Credits
Juan Paublo Barba – www.jpbarba.com