We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Maria Haswell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Maria below.

Alright, Maria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

It wasn’t easy to choose this path as an intuitive and healer. At the time, I had a corporate career, and there was security in that. I also wasn’t sure it was realistic to build a practice and a business out of it. But I knew it was the right path to follow, regardless of how scary it was. So, the first step was finding the courage to take the risk, and follow my purpose and passion.

When I started my business, I held private sessions in my home. Eventually, I found a local yoga studio where I could rent the space to offer my weekly spiritual circle classes. But I knew that to continue growing, I needed my own space– so the next step was to work on manifesting that desire. I started to visualize what that might look like.

Then. amazingly enough, the yoga studio where I was renting was offered up for sale – and I decided to purchase it. That was an entirely new challenge – learning how to manage a bigger business, while continuing to grow my practice.

I don’t think I would have done anything differently – maybe other than having more confidence that I could grow into who and what I am today.

My advice would be to get clear on your passion and your purpose, have confidence in yourself, and have the courage to take the risks that will get you there.

Maria, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Born in the Philippines as the youngest of five, I moved to the U.S. at age 7 and grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I still reside today.

From a very young age, I had many experiences of connecting with the spirit world. I heard voices and sensed spirits, angels, and guides reaching out to me.

But, like many children who naturally tap into that source from a very early age, it was discouraged by those around me. I was often told by others that I was “crazy” or “wrong.” So, I stopped.

It wasn’t until later in life that I embraced my gifts fully, choosing to pursue this path with love and purpose.

After losing my father suddenly in 1996, my spiritual journey truly began. With an open heart, I started connecting with loved ones and guides on a deeper level. That experience opened the door to communicating with angels, spirits, and my own intuition — guiding me to serve others with compassion and authenticity.

Over the past 28+ years, I’ve explored a wide range of healing, teaching, and spiritual practices, all of which I now integrate into my work with clients.

My approach combines my rich cultural heritage, extensive spiritual practice, and a deep belief that transformation begins within. I’m here to remind clients of their innate worth, and to help them uncover the love, strength, and authenticity that already resides within them.

Guided by my highest calling, I’ve dedicated myself to helping others unlock their true potential. Over the years, I’ve learned many healing and teaching methods, always with the intention to serve with integrity, inspiration, and honesty. Working with my clients in a sacred, intimate space fills me with joy — because I know transformation and enlightenment are possible for everyone. My mission is to help clients see the beauty of who they truly are.

My services include:
Intuitive Tarot Reading
Integrated Energy Healing
Empowerment Coaching
Sound Healing
Traditional Filipino Healing
Past Life Regression
Personal Rituals and Ceremonies
Space Clearing

I also offer weekly/monthly group classes and workshops:
Spiritual Circle
Sound Healing & Meditation
Full Moon Ceremonies
Healing Nights

I also teach private classes:
Tarot Reading
Energy Healing
Sound Healing
Intuition Development

In 2021, I also designed and published my own tarot deck, Mystic Goddess Sigils Tarot, inspired by my travels in the Philippines and the rich cultural and spiritual history there.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

In 2024, the building that housed our yoga studio was put up for sale, and we were unable to extend our lease. This meant trying to find a new location for the business, which was no small challenge. There was never any thought of ‘giving up’ – I was committed to my passion and purpose, and to finding a new location that would be even better. Through divine guidance and some hard work, I was able to find a new space.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The closure of the yoga studio meant a change in focus. No more yoga (since I wasn’t a yoga teacher), just my personal offerings. This actually provided a lift – I was more focused than ever on expanding my offerings. The result was the opening of my new business, Kapwa Wellness, in 2025.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.MariaHaswell.com and www.KapwaWellness.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariahaswell/ and https://www.instagram.com/kapwawellness/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahaswell and https://www.facebook.com/KapwaWellness
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariahaswell/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/maria-haswell-san-ramon-4 and https://www.yelp.com/biz/kapwa-wellness-san-ramon

Image Credits

Maria Haswell