In our Q&A Series, Self Bloom Co aims to put a spotlight on the incredible founders we are so thrilled to partner with, that are truly doing incredible things and creating such magic in their businesses. We dive into what inspired them to start their businesses, their business journey so far, their favourite products, what self-care means to them and their own self-care rituals.
Let's lower the shoulders, take a deep breath, and find a moment for us and immerse yourself in this read.
The Art Of Connection Begins Within.
Gracious Minds is about returning to self, nurturing our skin, mind and bodies through ritual.
Meet Kat, Founder of Melbourne-based brand, Gracious Minds
Tell us a little about you?
I’m Kat, I’m the Founder and Director of Gracious Minds. I have a 6 year old son, partner of 12 years, a very old little Jack Russell and we live in Melbourne. I’m passionate about mental health, skincare and wellness and feel drawn currently to learning more about spirituality.
What inspired you to create Gracious Minds?
Looking back almost 5 years ago now I was actually very lost. I had developed a problem with addiction and I was suffering from depression and anxiety. It was a very hard time for me and I felt very alone. I knew something had to change. I took it upon myself one random Wednesday and began the process of healing. I started seeing a regular psychologist, I started meditating, journaling, practicing self-care and really took the time that I needed to heal. Fast forward 4 years to January 2021 and Gracious Minds was born. The name originated from what I needed to do. I needed to be kind to myself. I needed to start treating myself with the unconditional love that I deserved. I thought Gracious Minds was truly fitting and hopefully encouraging to others.
How has the business journey been so far?
Ups and downs like with all start-ups, however I’m well-seasoned in the resilience of business as I co-founded a business at 20 and a decade later sold the company - just before Covid.
Tell us about the Forest Bathing Soak?
Forest bathing is our soothing bath soak Inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, which simply means walking in an area with trees and deeply inhaling the air. Our soak is rich in Australian Native Sandalwood and Kunzea Leaf which helps to relieve tension whilst nourishing and hydrating the skin.
Tell us about your beautiful journals?
The stone paper journals were the first product we released. Journaling really helped my mental health during my own personal healing stage and so I wanted to create a luxurious journal that felt special to use. The journals are wrapped in thick linen or waterproof canvas and inside the pages are cold, smooth and heavy as they are made from limestone.
Any hopes, dreams or plans for the business in the future?
We are taking GM in a new direction and focusing on introducing more products around mental health and well-being.
Do you have any self-care rituals or routine you like to do?
I always take time out on a Sunday afternoon to journal, practice breath work and meditation. I just feel Sundays work best for me before the start of a new week.
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