Providing peace in the process of life’s path & transitions.
Life's journey is filled with twists and turns, with so many transitions, when challenges arise and things feel complicated, finding the right support can make all the difference.
At Holistic Heart of Healing, I'm here to provide you with a comprehensive toolbox of strategies, empowering you to not just survive, but truly thrive through every phase of life.
I am here to help, with care of mind, body and spirit.
How are you really?
Where do you feel the need for some support and clarity in your life?
Perhaps some peace or a greater sense of well-being?
How are you, really?
Do you seek clarity, peace, or a greater sense of well-being? As a holistic family nurse practitioner, I offer compassionate support that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit.
Through spiritual direction, mindfulness education, guided imagery, classes and retreats, I'm dedicated to helping you navigate life's transitions with grace and resilience. Let's explore how I can support you on your path, with peace in the process to truly holistic well-being.
Whatever it is, I’m here to help, holistically.
Angela is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) educator, and trained spiritual director with decades of experience across clinical and community settings.
As a holistically certified family nurse practitioner with decades of experience spanning emergency medicine, family practice, palliative, and holistic care, I bring a wealth of insight to your journey. My certifications as a spiritual director, mindfulness educator (MBSR—Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, the gold standard of mindfulness) mean I'm uniquely equipped to guide and support you through life's many transitions.
You can have clarity, inner peace and strength through life's many transitions.
Service List
All of this has allowed me to create tools and programs, provide support and education and hold space to help you and your family, whether it is a new serious diagnosis, long-standing diagnosis or challenge, new baby, empty nest, separation/divorce, the many transitions and changes in life or the navigating palliative care and hospice process.
Holistic heart of healing can support you spiritually and mindfully, providing education and techniques that will allow you to integrate these changes into your life.
Contact Angela to work with her virtually or in-person (in the Chicago and Dallas areas) and with individuals, families and groups. She is available to speak and lead retreats.
Life is a gift, but can also be hard. Why go through it alone?
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I cherish the opportunity to journey with those exploring and nurturing their connection with the divine, either 1:1 or through group facilitation. While I am trained, educated and certified in the Jesuit tradition of Spiritual Direction and consider myself a Christian, I support anyone of all faiths, religions and beliefs. I respect and am deeply interested in other traditions, wisdom and perspectives. With a belief in radical inclusivity, we are all truly ONE in God and Love, which are, in my understanding, one and the same. Being trained through and participating in the Jesuit tradition, I am also happy to walk alongside those moving through the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises.
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Did you know that approximately 90% of visits to health care providers can be related to stress? With this knowledge and desire to help with this staggering reality, Dr. Jon Kabatt--Zinn developed Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), together with the University of Massachusetts & Harvard University. MBSR (And Kabat Zinn’s book Full Catastrophe Living) is the “Gold Standard” in Mindfulness training and education. I am proud of and grateful to be part of an elite team of certified MBSR teachers. I have developed my own holistic mindfulness program (see below: HOME), and continue to teach the traditional 8-week MBSR program. I am available to provide MBSR for your group or business as well.
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As above, I am a certified MBSR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction teacher, and appreciate, understand and respect it’s secular nature, so we can “take it to the masses”. We also know, when we “get quiet and pay attention” is when we are even more of God’s presence, voice and connection. Based on traditional MBSR, with a truly holistic approach, this 6 week program, offered in person and online, allows for Spirit, Grace and greater peace and compassion.
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When discerning next steps or navigating transitions and changes, sometimes you’re not sure where to go or what you need. I can help with all the offerings listed here, and I have a plethora of resources and referrals to help point you in the right direction.
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I offer guided imagery prior to surgery, treatments or procedures, additionally to help deal with chronic pain or certain stressful situations. I am trained and certified to provide Peggy Huddleston’s renowned program “Heal Faster” and continue to be amazed professionally and personally how powerful and helpful guided imagery can be.
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Life is full of transitions and changes, like Mr. Roger’s said “Look for the helper’s, you’ll always find helpers”. Sometimes you just need and supportive guide and help figuring out what resources are available, depending on the situation. As a family nurse practitioner, caring for people across the lifespan, with literally decades of professional and personal experience, I can be that guide.
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Similarly to helping those across the lifespan, I am uniquely qualified to support victims of narcissistic abuse. I am certified, through Dr. Ramani Durvasula’s program “Working with the Fallout of Narcissistic Abuse”. For better or worse, I have extensive personal and professional experience in this realm. In addition to a variety of tools, education and resources, Mindfulness practices are one of the key elements towards healing.
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As a subset of Holistic Heart of Healing, I developed Holistic Peaceful Passing for individuals and their loved ones to provide truly holistic support when faced with a serious or potentially terminal diagnosis. In particular, I help navigate the often confusing world of advanced care planning, ensuring patient and families voices are heard and respected. Palliative and Hospice care can be confusing terms, even for those in the medical field. I have written an ebook, you can download here, to help elucidate this process. Many people are concerned with pain and potential suffering, I am here to help with resources for symptom management and quality of life as well.
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I have been a Reiki Master for many years and am also trained in a variety of other healing energy modalities, Pranic healing, the Bengston Method and intuitive healing. Based on my experience over the years, I offer my own intuitive energy work practice, which is an honor and grace to provide and can do so remotely or in person.
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I would be honored to speak at your organization, business or on your program or podcast regarding any of my offerings. My desire and prayer is to help relieve suffering and be of service. I want help others remember they have their own unique gifts, divinity and internal wisdom. We are meant to be treated with love and respect, respect and love one another and to be happy.
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I have led and will continue to lead, retreats on a variety of topics, lengths and locations. I am happy to facilitate retreats for the workplace, school, groups, parishes, women’s retreats. I lead mindfulness, silent retreats, spiritual and holistic retreats. I am open to developing a plan and program based on your needs and interests.
Ready to find peace through this process? Book a call, email, or call directly.
Questions? Visit our FAQ.
Testimonials
“I recently found myself needing “a mom”, I reached out to Angela, knowing she would listen intently and have something loving and supportive to offer. I don’t personally know anyone else who has dedicated themselves more to grace, spiritual understanding and connection. She walks the walk. Having her by your side can help bring peace and comfort into your life. I’m so grateful to have this special person in my life.”
Bev Pines
“As I navigate my mother’s end of life journey, I see Angela as my spiritual and medical compass. She navigates me through the maze of emotions, medical care and most importantly, lets me know what to expect in the dying process so I can be present and of support to my mom and not agonizing over her future. Honestly, I don’t know how anyone does this without Angela. She has made an untenable situation more manageable and that has allowed me to grieve as I go. This is Angela's gift for which I will always be grateful.”
Colleen Collins Josellis, SW
Going through my divorce was one of the hardest times in my life, and I genuinely don’t know how I would have gotten through it without Angela. Her support, wisdom, and the mindfulness tools she shared helped me find stability when everything felt like it was falling apart.
Angela has a gift—not just for listening, but for guiding with compassion and clarity. She draws from her own deep life experiences, and that makes her guidance feel incredibly grounded and real. She seemed to know just what I needed to hear and offered advice and practices that actually made a difference.
Kind, patient, and truly knowledgeable, Angela was born to help others. I can’t recommend her enough—she is a steady light in difficult times, and working with her was truly life-changing.
Lara
“Angela Thomas-Santos seamlessly blends spiritually rich, compassionate care with decades of clinical experience in health services. As a Holistic Family Nurse Practitioner, she brings expertise from emergency medicine, family medicine, hospice, and palliative care, along with her training as a certified mindfulness teacher and spiritual director. Her deep commitment to dignity, grace, and peace makes her uniquely suited to help others navigate these important moments with comfort and clarity.”
Phil Andrew, Principal of PAX Group, LLC
My Reiki/Energy session with Angela was unlike anything I’ve experienced before. it was beautiful and moving, and I left the room feeling lighter. She is authentic and provides a safe space allowing for real work to be done. I will never forget it and look forward to the next time!
Amy
I have known Angela for many years and can wholeheartedly attest to her intelligence, deep knowledge, and extensive experience. As a nurse practitioner, she brings a wealth of medical expertise to her work. Beyond that, Angela is exceptionally gifted in the realms of Reiki healing and mindfulness.
I’ve had the privilege of attending her MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) workshop, as well as several Reiki healing sessions—and I’ve experienced profound benefits from both. Angela has a rare ability to connect with her students and clients in a deeply compassionate and intuitive way.
She seamlessly blends the roles of healer, teacher, spiritual advisor, mentor, and nurse. It’s often said that many people today are walking around with a God-sized hole in their hearts. Angela’s offerings through Holistic Heart of Healing are uniquely positioned to help fill that space—with wisdom, presence, and love.
Katie
Frequently Asked Questions
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Spiritual Direction is a sacred journey where someone walks alongside you, offering support and guidance as you explore your inner life and connection to the divine or what is meaningful to you. It is a space for reflection, discernment, and discovering deeper meaning, all with compassion and respect for your unique path.
Based on the explanation of Spiritual Direction as a journey of exploring one's inner life and connection to the divine, the benefits would include:
Deeper Self-Awareness: Gaining a clearer understanding of your thoughts, feelings, motivations, and values.
Enhanced Spiritual Connection: Strengthening your relationship with the divine, or whatever is meaningful to you, in a way that feels authentic.
Greater Meaning and Purpose: Discovering and clarifying what truly matters to you, leading to a more purposeful life.
Increased Clarity and Discernment: Developing the ability to make choices that are aligned with your deepest values and spiritual path.
Emotional and Spiritual Healing: Finding a supportive space to process challenges, grief, and spiritual wounds.
Reduced Isolation: Having a compassionate companion to share your spiritual journey with, fostering a sense of connection.
Personal Growth and Transformation: Engaging in a process that supports continuous growth and positive change in your life.
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Mindfulness is a practice of intentionally focusing your attention on the present moment, observing your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment without judgment. It involves cultivating a deep awareness of "what is" as it unfolds, rather than getting caught up in past regrets or future worries. This practice helps to foster a sense of presence, clarity, and a more peaceful relationship with your experiences.
Mindfulness is about paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, without judgment and with kindness, to things as they are. It is a valuable tool that originated in Buddhist teachings but has been adopted as a secular practice. The Heart of Mindfulness Experience (HOME) takes a holistic approach to mindfulness, integrating a spiritual dimension. Mindfulness involves cultivating an impartial witness stance to experiences, letting go of habitual categorizing and judging. It encourages coming to each experience as if for the first time, freeing from preconceptions. It also involves learning to trust one's intuition and native wisdom. The goal of mindfulness is to cultivate presence and awareness.Description goes here
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Mindfulness can be understood as a quality of attention or a state of being. It's about being fully present and aware of the current moment, observing thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. You can be mindful while doing everyday activities like walking, eating, or listening. It's a way of approaching life with heightened awareness.
Meditation is a formal practice or a technique that cultivates mindfulness. It's often a structured activity where you set aside time to train your attention, usually through techniques like focusing on the breath, body scans, or observing thoughts. While mindfulness is a state, meditation is a method or exercise that helps you develop and deepen that state of mindfulness.
In essence, meditation is a vehicle or tool that helps you practice and achieve mindfulness. Mindfulness, in turn, is the outcome or quality of awareness that can be cultivated through meditation and applied to all aspects of life.
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Guided Imagery is a therapeutic technique that involves using your imagination to create mental images, often led by a guide, to promote relaxation, reduce stress, manage pain, or facilitate healing. It can be individualized based on your personal needs and interests. Angela Thomas-Santos is trained, certified, and experienced in a number of healing modalities, including Guided Imagery. It can be used to decrease anxiety, facilitate healing prior to surgery or procedures, for pain management, or to enhance the effects of treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
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Studies have shown that 12 minutes a day of some kind of meditative practice tends to be therapeutic. Of course like most practices, there tends to be a “dose response”, meaning “more is probably better”.
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Reiki energy work and other energy healing modalities are based on the principle that a universal life force energy flows through us and around us. When this energy is disrupted or blocked, it can lead to imbalances in our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Energy work aims to clear these blockages and restore the natural flow of energy within the body.
How it Works:
During an energy healing session, a practitioner (like a Reiki Master) acts as a conduit for this universal energy, channeling it to the client. This can be done with light touch or with the hands held just above the body. The client remains fully clothed, and the session is often conducted in a calm and peaceful environment. The energy is believed to flow to where it's most needed, promoting relaxation and facilitating the body's natural healing processes. Angela is a Master Reiki Healer and also trained in Pranic healing & Bengston Method, offering intuitive energy sessions both virtually and in person.
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People seek energy work for a variety of reasons, including:
Stress Reduction and Relaxation: The gentle nature of energy work promotes deep relaxation, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety.
Pain Management: Some individuals find relief from chronic pain or discomfort through energy healing.
Emotional Healing: It can provide a supportive space to process emotions, grief, or trauma.
Balancing Energy: It helps to balance the body's energy centers (chakras) and energy fields, promoting overall well-being.
Complementary Therapy: It can be used alongside conventional medical treatments to support healing and recovery.
Personal Growth: Engaging in energy work can lead to a greater sense of inner peace, clarity, and spiritual connection.
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Angela Thomas-Santos, through Holistic Peaceful Passing, (www.holisticpeacfulpassing.com) provides compassionate and comprehensive support to individuals and their loved ones facing serious or terminal illness. Blending decades of clinical experience with a holistic approach, Angela offers spiritual direction, mindfulness education (including MBSR principles), resources and guidance to address the emotional, spiritual, and physical needs of clients, fostering peace, clarity, and well-being during challenging times. She also helps with situations often associated with serious illness including symptom management and advanced care planning, always with care for the whole person and their loved ones.
PEACE IN THE PROCESS 🤍
PEACE IN THE PROCESS 🤍
PEACE IN THE PROCESS 🤍
PEACE IN THE PROCESS 🤍 PEACE IN THE PROCESS 🤍 PEACE IN THE PROCESS 🤍