Social Impact Heroes Helping Our Planet: Why and How Rhonda Forrester of Meraki Healing Energy Is Helping To Change Our World
An Interview With Martita Mestey
Ok so first would be “Pace Yourself, Growth Takes Time
I started out thinking I’d create an impact overnight, imagining full classes and a steady stream of clients right away. I dove in, spending countless hours perfecting my space and marketing materials. But the journey to building a practice that genuinely connects with people takes patience and consistency. Early on, I scheduled back-to-back clients, thinking this would help me grow faster, only to realize that without adequate rest and recovery, my energy and presence for each session would suffer. Now, I allow my practice to grow at its own pace and remember that sustainability matters more than speed.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact”, I had the pleasure of interviewing Rhonda Forrester.
For over 15 years, Rhonda Forrester, founder of Meraki Healing Energy, has been a guiding light in the healing community, helping individuals, couples, families, and even children discover the transformative power of Reiki. A dedicated Reiki Master and Teacher, Rhonda’s work is rooted in the philosophy that “energy is everything.” Through Meraki Healing Energy, she offers a compassionate, profound approach to healing that honors the interconnected nature of life and embraces the unique journey of each client.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
Growing up in the heart of Brooklyn, NYC I was surrounded by the vibrant pulse of my large family, rooted in a rich Caribbean heritage from Grenada, W.I. Our household was more than walls and windows; it was a tapestry woven with laughter, warmth, and the kind of love that wrapped around you like a well-worn, comforting blanket. It wasn’t just my mom, dad, sister, and brothers; my uncles and cousins who had migrated from the island became a constant part of our lives, bringing with them the sun-kissed spirit of Grenada. My Grandmother was the foundation of richness. Together, we were a melting pot of personalities, each bringing a unique flavor, yet somehow blending perfectly. No matter the differences, support was the unbreakable thread that held us together, a reminder that in our family, we were never alone. Every milestone, from birthdays to small victories, became a celebration that echoed through our lives like the steady beat of a drum, grounding us in togetherness.
You are currently leading a social impact organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change in our world today?
As a holistic practitioner I founded Meraki Healing Energy to become a haven for deep transformative healing for those in need. Through Reiki energy healing, Tantra, and other amazing modalities Meraki specializes in ancestral healing, inner child healing, and past life trauma, approaching each session with the deep conviction that holistic healing is more than just a method, it’s a universal life force that exists within everything around us. My unique practice of “soul surgery” is central to my work. I perform deep, energetic healing by tapping into my clients’ energy fields to help release buried traumas and hidden emotional scars. For me, this work is more than addressing the physical and emotional; it’s about helping clients break generational cycles, rediscover their true selves, and access a deeper layer of personal freedom. A part many of us still have hidden in today’s world.
Can you tell us the backstory about what inspired you to originally feel passionate about this cause?
I always knew my life’s purpose is to help others. As I discovered the blissful benefits within my own journey of learning, self-discovery, and healing, I knew it was my calling to assist others. The name Meraki represents the dedication and spirit I pour into my work, embodying the idea of putting something of oneself into everything one does. This view of healing extends beyond individual sessions; I believe that the healing of one person has the power to uplift and positively impact the collective consciousness. By working to heal ourselves, we also bring healing energy to our families, communities, and beyond. As part of my holistic approach, I also offer workshops, guided meditations, and group healing circles to expand my clients’ understanding of energy work and deepen their practice of self-love and healing. Through these offerings, I aim to educate my clients on self-reiki and energy management so they can carry the transformative power of Reiki and holistic health and wellness into their daily lives.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. They don’t get up and just do it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were actually going to step up and do it? What was that final trigger?
My aha moment, the moment the universe turned on its bright lightbulb, came with a jolt when I was unexpectedly let go from my long-term career in healthcare during the pandemic in 2020. It was as if the universe had been quietly whispering, dropping subtle hints for me to step into a new calling, but I hadn’t fully tuned in until that day. Left with a swirling mix of uncertainty, disappointment, fear, and worry, I found myself standing at a crossroads. Yet, instead of sinking, I felt a spark within, a reminder that energy doesn’t vanish; it transforms. I took that turbulent energy and transmuted it, pouring every ounce of myself into creating Meraki Healing Energy. Support arrived like a river overflowing its banks, affirming that I was walking the right path. It was as though the universe had opened a doorway just for me, and Meraki Healing Energy was my gift waiting on the other side, fully manifesting as it was meant to be.
Many people don’t know the steps to take to start a new organization. What are some of the things or steps you took to get your project started?
To bring Meraki Healing Energy to life, I knew I needed to build it on a foundation as solid as stone. I started by immersing myself in research, digging deep into higher education in health, wellness, and business. I wanted to create something legitimate, something that could stand strong and grow. I tapped into every free and low-cost resource I could find, shaping Meraki Healing Energy into an LLC with care and precision. With the guidance of professional help, I navigated the legal waters, ensuring every aspect was properly structured and secure. Piece by piece, I laid out a plan for operations, forming a blueprint that would allow my vision to thrive. This groundwork became the strong roots of Meraki Healing Energy, set firmly in place, ready to grow and flourish.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
One of the most surprising discoveries since I began Meraki Healing Energy was the vast landscape of uncharted territory when it came to knowledge on holistic alternative medicine. So many potential clients came in with little understanding of what alternative healing methods entailed, almost like travelers approaching the edge of a new world. I quickly became a guide, teaching them about the principles of Reiki, energy work, and the benefits of holistic wellness. In 2023, only about 40% of Americans reported having tried or having a deep understanding of alternative medicine, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Educating clients became a crucial first step, giving them the tools and confidence to approach their first session with an open mind and open heart. This exchange of knowledge transformed each encounter into a shared journey, one that allowed them to step onto the path of healing with curiosity and trust. With that said I offer free consultations for every service that Meraki Healing Energy offers.
It has been said, that sometimes our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Do you have a story about a humorous mistake that you made when you were first starting and the lesson you learned from that?
When I first started my journey, I thought I was some kind of holistic superhero, juggling everything single-handedly, from crafting products to marketing, designing my website, handling client inquiries, and even organizing workshops. It felt like I was holding up a mountain with one finger, until reality gave me a good shake. One day, while preparing for a product launch and an upcoming workshop, I accidentally shipped a batch of yoni bars to a customer who had ordered Reiki sessions. Imagine her surprise, and mine! I was drowning in a sea of tasks, but my stubborn pride kept me from asking for help. I remember sitting there, staring at my to-do list like it was a ticking time bomb, my brain aching from trying to keep track of a hundred spinning plates. It’s been a humbling and eye-opening experience, learning that true strength lies in letting others lend a hand. Now, I lean on my partner, friends, family, and experts, each like a bridge across a river I can’t cross alone. Seeking help doesn’t make the mountain smaller, but it sure makes the climb smoother.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
Yes, I’ve been incredibly blessed with mentors and cheerleaders who helped me soar higher than I could have alone. Manuela Del Prete, my Reiki Master Teacher, came into my life with a nurturing presence, like a guiding star on a dark night, illuminating the path to my own enlightenment. Her mothering energy brought wisdom and gentle encouragement as I grew from a new Reiki Practitioner to a confident Reiki Master Teacher. Then there’s my soul tribe, my radiant sisters, Denise Williams, Veronica Lee, and Omena El, each a glowing ember in the warm fire of our sisterhood. Their unyielding support lifts me up, and their presence reminds me of the beauty in shared dreams. And of course, my divine masculine counterpart, my partner, Josh Harkness. His love is a steady anchor, grounding me as I reach for the sky. With the heart of a warrior and the experience of an eight-time founder and CFO, he’s been both shield and sword, helping me grow not only as a business owner but as a woman, mother, and wife. To each of these souls, thank you for being the wind beneath my wings.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
Absolutely, there are a few ways our community, society, and policymakers can support the journey toward balanced, holistic wellness. First, they can help amplify awareness of holistic healing modalities like Reiki, encouraging people to see them as valid, enriching practices that nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Campaigns, public talks, and even school programs that include alternative health practices can bridge the gap between traditional and holistic health approaches. Second, providing space…literal and figurative…for the holistic wellness community is crucial. Designated areas for wellness events, meditation, and healing sessions, alongside public support, could create more open, judgment-free zones for holistic practice. Finally, policymakers could acknowledge and advocate for the importance of holistic practices in mental health and wellness. Subsidizing holistic health initiatives, like Reiki, through grants or insurance support would make these services accessible to more people, especially those seeking alternative approaches to personal harmony and well-being. This collective support would not only validate the work we do but also contribute to a healthier, more balanced society.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why?
Ok so first would be “Pace Yourself, Growth Takes Time
I started out thinking I’d create an impact overnight, imagining full classes and a steady stream of clients right away. I dove in, spending countless hours perfecting my space and marketing materials. But the journey to building a practice that genuinely connects with people takes patience and consistency. Early on, I scheduled back-to-back clients, thinking this would help me grow faster, only to realize that without adequate rest and recovery, my energy and presence for each session would suffer. Now, I allow my practice to grow at its own pace and remember that sustainability matters more than speed.
Second would be Your Clients Are Your Teachers Too
I assumed as a Reiki practitioner, my role was to “heal” others, but soon discovered that every client brings unique lessons and insights that help me evolve. One of my first clients came in with a story of overcoming deep trauma, and her resilience in finding peace within herself taught me the power of strength through vulnerability. Working with each client isn’t just about guiding them, it’s about being open to what their journey can reveal about my own path. I learned that as a practitioner, I am as much a student as I am a teacher, growing alongside those I serve.
Third would be It’s Okay to Ask for Help
I thought running every part of my practice on my own was a badge of honor, but it quickly led to burnout. Between admin tasks, social media, bookings, and creating content, I was overwhelmed. Thankfully, I confided in my friends, spouse, and professionals who helped me set up simple, efficient systems and even offered to manage my bookings part-time. Since then, I’ve embraced the strength of teamwork, from getting support with the business side to leaning on my mentors for guidance. Asking for help made my practice stronger, not weaker.
Fourth I would say Self-Care Isn’t Optional, It’s Essential
In my excitement to help others, I initially neglected my own energy and boundaries, taking on more clients than I could manage without rest. Soon, I felt drained, realizing I wasn’t practicing the balance I was teaching. Now, I set time for my own energy clearing, grounding rituals, and even days off to recharge. Prioritizing my well-being isn’t just self-care, it’s essential to my ability to serve others effectively. This balance allows me to show up fully, present, and energized for each client I hold space for.
Lastly I would say Authenticity Builds Trust and Connection
Early on, I tried to emulate other successful practitioners, thinking I had to fit a specific image to attract clients. But I quickly found that clients respond to genuine energy, not an imitation. I once was a guest speaker at a new moon workshop and, feeling a bit nervous, tried to keep everything strictly professional. Yet, when I finally shared a personal story about my own journey of healing, the room filled with warmth and connection. Since then, I’ve leaned into my unique voice and experiences, finding that authenticity resonates deeply and builds a trust that keeps clients returning.
If you could tell other young people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
If I could tell young people one thing about making a positive impact on our environment or society, it would be this: believe that your voice and dreams matter deeply, and that the world needs what you have to offer. Growing up as a Black Caribbean woman in Brooklyn, New York, I often felt that my dreams of becoming a holistic practitioner were distant and unconventional, yet I knew they held a purpose beyond myself. Following my heart, I believed my path would not only lead to personal success but also create a ripple effect for others, especially for those who look like me and might feel out of place in traditional wellness spaces. By stepping fully into my role as a female, melanin-rich holistic practitioner, I aim to carve a space for others to feel seen, healed, and uplifted. Our communities need us to show up with courage and authenticity, to be the role models we may not have had, and to change the narrative of what’s possible. We each hold a power within us to make a difference, to bring light, and to inspire, and it starts by simply believing that we can.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
My favorite life lesson quote is, “Get comfortable being uncomfortable.” This simple but powerful statement has shaped my journey as a holistic practitioner and entrepreneur. When I first began, there were countless moments that pushed me outside my comfort zone, from sharing my personal healing journey with others to stepping into leadership roles that felt unfamiliar. There were times I felt vulnerable, unsure, and even fearful, but I learned that discomfort is where growth lives. Embracing the unknown has allowed me to open new doors, connect with people in meaningful ways, and grow my practice beyond what I thought was possible. Each uncomfortable moment taught me resilience and gave me the confidence to pursue my path fully. Now, I view discomfort as a sign that I’m on the brink of something transformative, and I welcome it as a necessary step toward fulfilling my purpose.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
If I could share a private breakfast or lunch with anyone, it would be Queen Afua. Her work in holistic health, especially her emphasis on the mind-body-spirit connection for people of African descent, has been nothing short of transformative for so many, including myself. Queen Afua’s dedication to healing and empowering women, particularly through the lens of our culture and heritage, is a powerful inspiration for my own practice. I would love to hear her insights firsthand, to learn from her wisdom, and to thank her for blazing a path that celebrates the beauty, strength, and resilience of Black women in wellness. Sitting with her would be an opportunity to connect deeply about our shared mission and to honor her as a true pioneer and guiding light in holistic healing.
How can our readers follow you online?
You can access me and my work on the following platforms:
Instagram: @merakihealingenergy
Facebook: merakihealing3
Twitter: @merakihealinge1
Become a Subscriber visit www.merakihealing.online
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
Social Impact Heroes Helping Our Planet: Why and How Rhonda Forrester of Meraki Healing Energy Is… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.