EP:14 Tattooing as a Love Letter to the Self with Erica Tumbaga

In this episode, I’m joined by Erica, a therapist, mother, and longtime seeker whose tattoos have become sacred markers of her healing journey. What began as an intention to honor her late father has transformed into a deeply intuitive collaboration where art, spirit, and embodiment meet. We talk about how tattoos can become more than adornment: they can serve as love letters to the self, reminders of empowerment, and reflections of our evolving stories. From her early experiences with traditional tattoo shops to the safety and synergy she found in Earth Altar Studio, Erica shares how choosing intentional artistry changed everything about how she views bodywork, identity, and self-expression. In this episode, we explore: ✨ The power of intuitive tattooing as a form of healing ✨ How art can hold the energy of seasons, grief, and growth ✨ Tattoos as adornments for warriors and as quiet personal reminders ✨ The difference between tattoos chosen in youth vs. those in later life ✨ Why co-creating art can feel like therapy, storytelling, and ritual all in one This conversation is a reminder that your body can carry your story with intention and that art on the skin can be as much about spirit as it is about aesthetics. If you’re feeling ready to dive into learning how to create intuitive tattoos like this or get one with me, I would love to meet you. Please reach out and say hi and let me know you are ready for more! Connect with Erica Tumbaga Instagram: @Erica Tumbaga Linkedin: Erica Tumbaga Website :www.compassiontowardsself.com Connect with Me: Instagram: @thejustinealmaraz Website: justinealmaraz.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JustineArtStudio I’d love to connect.