Difference Maker: Rocío Martínez Alvarado

By Monica Torres: Prevention and Community Outreach Specialist

Rocío Martínez Alvarado was born in Zacatecas, Mexico, a place surrounded by nopales and bougainvillea where her deep connection with nature began. She shares that it was there where “a seed of lifelong devotion to the living medicine of the earth was planted” within her.

She graduated from Battle Mountain High School in 2013. She began her studies focused on business and later worked in the field of human resources, supporting teachers in the creation of curriculum. However, her professional path took an important turn when she decided to travel to Southeast Asia.

In Thailand and Indonesia, Rocío began her yoga studies and worked as a volunteer in alternative schools and community gardens. It was during this stage that the practice of yoga entered her life in a profound way. After participating in classes and workshops, she decided to continue this path upon returning to Mexico, where she became a certified yoga instructor.

“I wanted my business career and the environment to come together to create sustainability. I was always passionate about the environment and found a way to make it happen” Rocío shares. She also studied the alternative medicine Bachelor’s degree in Ayurveda, which she describes as “the sister of yoga, a medicine that allows life and knowledge to be in harmony with nature.”

From this personal and professional journey, Gula Wellness was born—a local business that emerges from the roots and the heart. Its focus goes beyond the physical; as Rocío herself says, “I believe that health is not only physical, but also emotional, spiritual, and collective.” This holistic vision is the foundation of everything she shares and creates.

Gula Wellness has the mission of strengthening wellbeing as a sacred act of remembering who we are. Through organic skincare products made with botanical extracts, artisanal perfumes, and reconnection workshops, Rocío offers experiences that honor both body and spirit. Each product is handmade, with intention and respect for the earth.

In addition to her work in wellness, Rocío is a community facilitator with the Elevar program committee, which supports community members in growing both personally and professionally through their businesses. Her work includes assisting with tax preparation and creating a healthy food box with organic, seasonal foods—an initiative that emerged from listening to the needs of the community.

The impact of her work is reflected across different populations. Rocío highlights the changes she has observed in students who consistently attend her yoga classes, especially in how they respond to conflict. Likewise, women who participate in her Ayurveda sessions share how simple habits have transformed their minds and bodies.

When speaking about challenges, Rocío mentions the lack of access to resources in Spanish, “We don’t find many options,” she notes. Even so, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing wellbeing and seeking accessible alternatives, reminding the community that there are also free resources available through online platforms. She also encourages people to stay active in ways that best suit each stage of life—whether walking, practicing a sport, or simply moving the body.

To close, Rocío shares a reflection with the community: “Remember that we are not our thoughts. Don’t believe everything you think. Life is not forever—choose to live in harmony. Even painful moments allow us to value and recognize the happiness we have lived.”