About Us

Our Origin

Simple Vita came about as a result of waiting for my father to die from cancer in August 2008. There’s nothing more trying than waiting for death. We understood that time was not on our side, so we scheduled frequent dinners and a summer outing not really knowing when to expect Dad’s passing. As my husband and I made sure to spend time with Dad, we wanted to have all the needed conversations we could possibly have and asked him, “What advice do you have for us?” Dad’s response was, “Live a simple life.”

His words continue to ring in our ears, especially for me who after working 18 years in New York City, am now a work-at-home mama with my daughter. My life partner and I have benefited and learned so much from Dad’s words, “Live a simple life,” that we wanted to apply our professional skills to the meaningful pursuit of sharing his wisdom with others — hence, the creation of Simple Vita.

Who are we?

Sheelagh Cabalda is an education/school community advocate and mindfulness practitioner who has worked in cultural studies/diversity education, multicultural counseling, youth development, higher education, cancer support, and non-profit management. Inspired by the Filipino value of kapwa, sacred interconnectedness, she has trained in mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR) with Karyn Sandelman and in yoga and mindfulness for children with ChildLight Education. She has also been a community member at the Mindfulness Practice Center of Fairfax led by principal teachers Anh-Huong and Thu Nguyen in the tradition of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh. 

A.L. Torres is an executive strategist who has extensive experience in coaching executive leaders, physicians, artists, educators, and public servants. With an exceptionally knowledgeable background in healthcare and personal health advocacy, Alex has developed an appreciation for holistic wellness. His wish is to provide others with the opportunity to fulfill their hearts’ desires whatever they may be.

This wife and husband team works because they have an honest commitment to inspire each other to be the best and most authentic they can be as individuals and sharing that promise with others – women and men. They envision a community where women and men and girls and boys take the time to nurture themselves, give to others, and delight in the joys of living a simple life.

Thank you for your grace as we currently update our website.