Connecting the Collective with Ciara Lopez
Empowering Women through Chiropractic Care and Birth Advocacy:
A Conversation with Ciara Lopez
As we continue to celebrate Women's History Month, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Ciara Lopez, a local chiropractor and co-founder of Sequoia Birth Collective. In this interview, Ciara shares insights into her journey, the inspiring women who have shaped her career, and her commitment to empowering women through her chiropractic practice and nonprofit organization.
Finding Inspiration in Women of Influence
Women's History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of women. Are there specific female role models in your industry or personal life who have inspired you?
Ciara: Several remarkable women in my industry have profoundly influenced and inspired me. Initially, it was a select group of women pioneering the sports chiropractic niche, working closely with professional athletes—a path I was navigating myself. Witnessing a few of these athletes become pregnant during my work with professional and Olympic athletes revealed a gap in specialized care during pregnancy. Surprisingly, there were limited sports chiropractors dedicated to supporting athletes in this crucial period.
Simultaneously, my journey led me to achieve Webster certification, a goal I had harbored since my internship in 2013 at a prenatal and pediatric practice under the guidance of an internationally recognized Pediatric Chiropractor. This milestone marked the intersection of my sports and athlete background with my fervor for providing care to pregnant women and children, all approached from a holistic movement and functional perspective.
A pivotal figure in merging these aspects was Lindsey Matthew’s Cantù, the founder of BirthFit. Her work seamlessly combined sports and maternal health, proving to be a perfect fit for my evolving approach. Lindsey remains an immense source of inspiration, both in shaping my career and on a personal level, particularly as she recently experienced the transformative journey of home birthing her first child.
Sequoia Birth Collective: A Year of Empowerment
Can you tell us more about your other endeavors or projects you're involved in that empower or support women's growth and well-being?
Ciara: I proudly serve as a co-founder of the nonprofit organization Sequoia Birth Collective, celebrating our first anniversary this year! Alongside my fellow co-founders, who are also esteemed birth professionals, we united to address the concerning trends we observed firsthand: a rise in cesarean rates, a decline in breastfeeding rates, and an overall sense of disappointment among women regarding their birth experiences. Recognizing the significance of both physical and mental well-being, we aspire to help new moms feel not only satisfied but accomplished by their birthing experiences. Here's to empowering women and fostering positive birth experiences!
The Sequoia Birth Collective: Monalisa Orduno (Doula), Ciara Lopez (Chiropractor) and Patty Villarreal Maldonado ( IBCLC, Lactation Consultant)
Kinwork Space: A Hub for Connection and Growth
How do you envision utilizing Kinwork to enhance your chiropractic business and the Sequoia Birth Collective? Are there specific areas or amenities that you find particularly beneficial for your work?
Ciara: In considering how to optimize our chiropractic business within the coworking space, Kinwork offers an environment that not only appeals to my professional needs but also aligns with the welcoming atmosphere I crave daily—yes, I might just want to hang out there every day! While I may be somewhat kidding, the reality is that the aesthetic and functionality of Kinwork makes it a place I genuinely look forward to.
My utilization plans extend beyond casual visits, though. The versatility of Kinwork lends itself perfectly to my diverse professional activities. From meeting with potential doula clients to hosting group sessions, virtual meetings, and collaborative gatherings with my nonprofit team, the space offers a dynamic setting for various engagements.
Additionally, Kinwork’s environment will provide a workspace for focused productivity. Whether it's tackling administrative tasks, strategizing business plans, or simply getting things done, Kinwork can be the backdrop for all my essential work endeavors. I'm eager to embrace the full spectrum of opportunities and functionality that Kinwork has to offer for enhancing my chiropractic business. Here's to a space that seamlessly complements my professional vision!
Balancing Multiple Roles: Marie Forleo's Wisdom and Flexibility
Women often wear multiple hats, balancing professional and personal commitments. How do you manage your time effectively, and what strategies do you employ to maintain a work-life balance?
Ciara: Is this a trick question?? Ha! Juggling multiple roles is no joke! When I started my own practice, creating boundaries became crucial. Thanks to Marie Forleo's wisdom on "non-negotiable" times, I safeguard moments for myself—physically and mentally. As a wife and mom, I've extended this principle, meticulously scheduling chiropractic admin, nonprofit work, self-paced learning, and exercise. A structured schedule keeps me grounded, but let's face it, plans don't always pan out. So, another vital strategy? Embracing the art of rolling with the punches!
