Hidden Gems: Meet Maria Angelova of Rebellious Intl

This interview is originally published in VoyageATL. 

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Angelova.

VoyageATL: Hi Maria, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Maria Angelova: The Rebellious story keeps unfolding in the most amazing and empowering ways. With a comprehensive offering supporting individual and organizational transformation, Rebellious is ready to support those ready for action and eager to uplevel.

The Rebellious story started almost six years ago. Rebellious started as a fitness studio offering in-person Pilates classes. My personal transformation from the world of Finance to the world of Movement, Mindset and Healing took me from existing in a world of societal expectations to living a life of fulfillment and purpose.

Attending a personal development summit a couple of months ago, I had a flashback of attending the same summit 4 years ago. I vividly remember getting on stage and sharing my challenges as well as my confusion as to how to move forward. I cannot believe it has been only 4 years. 4 years of profound personal and business evolution.

I now coach people everything I have learned from some of the best body and mindset teachers in the industry. I have done a lot of reading, a lot of coaching for myself to get out of my way as well as uncover the authentic me underneath the layers of ‘shoulds’ and ‘musts’. I am first-hand experiencing a reality upgrade – from a reality of auto-repeat, stress and anxiety to a reality of intention and calm – as well as lifestyle – I get to do what I love to do daily. I get a tremendous kick out of helping people become pain-free, stronger, more flexible and calm in body and mind.

VA: I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?

MA: The entrepreneurial journey presented me with a variety of challenges, many of which I did not anticipate and was unprepared for. When I started my transition, I thought years of schooling and corporate experience will be a solid foundation. Surprise – that wasn’t the case. I found myself stuck in limiting beliefs in various aspects of life holding me back.

Early in the journey, my biggest challenges were related to confusion in how to build a business and brand in a completely different industry and from ground zero as well as a lack of support and understanding from those around me. Loneliness is a reality as one ascends on his or her growth path.

The COVID pandemic brought on new challenges. Yet, it was a game-changer – Rebellious started offering classes online thus removing location as a growth-limiting factor. As mental health began deteriorating, I found myself apt to lend a compassionate hand and support people physically, mentally and emotionally through self-care, mindfulness and positivity. This gave birth to the offerings of Mindset Coaching, Wellness Retreats and Workplace Wellness. I wrote and published a book and accompanying journal – Mind & Body – How to Live with Positivity, Passion and Purpose.

The great news is – in every challenge lies a learning opportunity. I have learned to embrace challenges as opportunities to become a better version of myself and serve the world with a heart fuller.

VA: Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

MA: My work is in the realm of physical and mental coaching with a spice of metaphysics. I help you establish an intentional and healthy relationship with your body and mind through spiking awareness.

The foundation of my physical work is Pilates. I am a 600-hour certified instructor in Pilates. In addition, I flavor the movement sessions with aspects of my 30 years in fitness, including functional movement, strength training, fascia and such.

The VIP sessions, which are 1:1 coaching, are very much tailored to what your body needs – whether that is assistance with rehabilitation, pain reduction or improvement in athletic performance.

The mindset work aims to increase your awareness around the way you think and behave. The goal is to identify limiting beliefs and triggers so they don’t stand in your way of you living the life you want (versus the life you are told you should live). The mindset work has a significant impact on stress levels as you learn to be more responsive rather than reactive to life.

The energy work is for those open to the metaphysical. Its purpose is to remove any blockages of energy so that there is flow of life in your body.

I work with individuals in a private, duet as well as group settings, both in-person and online. I am a keynote and motivational speaker. I support organizations in their efforts to inspire and engage their workforce through interactive workshops and retreats.

Read the full interview in VoyageATL Magazine.