Blog 71: Mums Deserve More: Prioritising SelfCare with Nourishing Mana

Helen empowers women to reclaim wellness through selfcare and nourishing products.

Introduction

Introducing the founder of Nourishing Mana. As a wife and mother of two, she embraced a life centred around health, wellness, and family. Her passion for wellbeing grew from overcoming burnout in her early 20s. Now, she empowers women to rediscover their inner strength through selfcare and high-quality products that nurture both body and soul.

Helen, tell me about yourself, your personality, and your passion. How do you serve yourself? Also, how do you serve the community?

Hi, I am Helen, founder of Nourishing Mana.  I am married to a wonderful, supportive man who has been my rock & grounds me.  I have 2 beautiful children, a 14-year-old son & a 12-year-old daughter.  I love spending time with my family & making special memories with them.  

My personality is strength, courage, determination, fun & I am quite shy! My passion is definitely my children & Health & Wellness.  I have been interested in it since my early 20s when I had severe burnout.  It took me quite a while to overcome, but my passion for all things health & wellness was born out of that.  I believe in enhancing wellbeing through selfcare.  Also, I think what goes in your body & on your skin is very important. 

I serve myself through selfcare & ensuring my morning routine & practices align with my values & mental wellness.  This means incorporating my products into my everyday life & finding balance in my personal & professional activities. 

For the community, I focus on serving women who have lost themselves along the way, through the demands of career or motherhood, by providing them with high-quality products that support a healthier lifestyle & some much-needed me time so they can re-discover themselves their identity & their inner power. 

10 Questions for Helen

1.      As a busy mum, many of my readers often struggle to find time for selfcare. How can your minimalist approach to selfcare help me incorporate it into my daily routine, even with limited time?

Selfcare does not have to be a long process that takes up precious time.  I definitely understand what it is like being a busy mum who is running a household, maybe working a full-time or part-time job, raising kids, maybe caring for an elderly parent, trying to have some time with your partner & then finding time for ourselves. Life can get exhausting.

My aim was to develop products that are not only effective but also save you time.  Consider our versatile Body Oil, which hydrates your skin and offers aromatherapy benefits in a single application. This time-saving feature ensures that you can care for your body and mind without adding any extra stress to your already busy life.

I recommend using the Foot Scrub once a week.  I like doing it on a Friday night while my kids eat dinner.  It takes less than 10 minutes.  Instead of long routines, build simple daily rituals around your busiest moments. For example, applying the Foot Balm before bed can become a quick but calming nightly habit.  I keep the Balm by my bedside table & put it on just before bed.  All the products have a minimalist approach; It’s better to do a 5-minute practice daily than to stress over finding time for an hour-long ritual.

2.      I'm concerned about the chemicals in many skincare products. Can you explain how your commitment to natural ingredients benefits my skin and overall wellbeing?

As a consumer, I've personally embarked on a journey of becoming more aware of the many chemicals that go into conventional skincare products.  Over the past 10 years, I've gained a deeper understanding of the ingredients in the products I use.   The long list of incomprehensible ingredients in conventional products is a shared experience, and we now comprehend the potential effects these ingredients can have on our bodies, not just our skin. 

I am very committed to providing products that are naturally derived & kind to our bodies.  I am not a fan of synthetic fragrances as they are endocrine disruptors & as women, our hormonal systems are so overburdened in today's world.  This alone is a massive benefit to your skin & wellbeing as none of our products contains synthetic fragrances.

I am also committed to natural, ethically sourced ingredients that impact your skin and overall wellbeing.  Natural ingredients, like essential oils, plant extracts, and butter, are gentle and compatible with your skin's biology. They are often packed with vitamins, minerals & antioxidants.  Shea Butter, for example, is deeply moisturising, has skin healing benefits & is anti-inflammatory.

Unlike synthetic chemicals, natural ingredients are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.   By steering clear of synthetic chemicals like parabens, sulphates, and artificial fragrances, you significantly reduce your exposure to toxins that can have long-term negative effects.  Natural formulations, free from these harmful substances, provide a safe and healthy skincare routine, offering reassurance and security. 

3.       The idea of empowering women through selfcare resonates with me. Can you share specific examples of how your products or philosophy have helped mothers feel more empowered and confident?

Empowering women, particularly mothers, through selfcare is central to the philosophy behind our products at Nourishing Mana. For many mothers, time for themselves is scarce. By encouraging small but meaningful selfcare rituals, like applying a nourishing Body Oil or Foot Balm before bed, women can carve out moments of peace in their busy lives.

These small acts of care help mothers reconnect with themselves, enhancing their sense of worth and rejuvenation. For example, using our body oils like the Lemon Patchouli Morning Body Oil has helped mothers feel revitalised and confident as they take on the day.  

Mothers have also shared how using products like the Lavender Ylang-Ylang Evening Body Oil after a long day helps them unwind and feel more centred. 

Selfcare isn’t just about the products; it’s about fostering a mindset of self-love. We encourage mothers to view selfcare as a way to honour themselves, creating a ripple effect of positivity that translates into how they care for their families. Mothers often feel more capable, calm, and confident by taking a moment to care for themselves, which empowers them to navigate their daily lives more quickly.

4.       This is for readers who are new to the concept of minimalist selfcare. Please provide some practical tips on simplifying my selfcare routine and focusing on what truly matters.

The key is to focus on the essentials and streamline your routine so that it fits seamlessly into your daily life.  

Identify the selfcare activities that most impact your physical and emotional wellbeing. For instance, moisturising your skin, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep are foundational. By focusing on these basics, you can eliminate unnecessary steps and products.

Simplify your skincare by choosing versatile products that serve multiple functions. For example, a nourishing Body Oil can hydrate your skin while providing aromatherapy benefits. This way, you’re getting more out of fewer products without compromising care.

Selfcare doesn’t need to be long or elaborate. Taking a few minutes for yourself during the day—whether deep breathing, stretching, or a foot massage—can have a significant positive impact. These small but consistent moments of care are effective and sustainable.

5.       Many selfcare products are expensive. How do you ensure your products are accessible to mothers on a budget?

My goal is to make selfcare accessible to every mother, regardless of budget, so that they can care for themselves without the stress of high costs. 

I design products that serve multiple purposes, allowing mothers to use fewer items without sacrificing care. For example, Body Oils can be used for moisturising, massaging, bath oil and aromatherapy, saving time and money by reducing the need for multiple products.

Our products are concentrated and crafted with high-quality natural ingredients, ensuring that you need only a small amount to see results. This guarantees that each product lasts longer, offering more value over time, and making it a wise investment.

We also offer Bundle Packs, such as our scrub and balm sets, which provide discounts compared to purchasing each item individually. This allows mothers to enjoy a complete selfcare experience at a reduced cost, making incorporating multiple products into their routine easier.

6.       Motherhood can be overwhelming at times. How can your products or philosophy help mothers find peace and rejuvenation amidst the chaos?

Motherhood can indeed be overwhelming, and at Nourishing Mana, the products and philosophy are designed to help mothers find peace and rejuvenation, even amid the chaos.

Our philosophy is rooted in the practicality of small, meaningful rituals. Whether it's a quick application of our soothing Body Oil or a brief Foot Scrub, these moments are designed to seamlessly integrate into a mother's daily routine, providing a much-needed pause and personal time.

Many of our products, like the Lavender Ylang-Ylang Evening Body Oil, are infused with essential oils that benefit aromatherapy. Lavender, for example, promotes relaxation and reduces stress, while ylang-ylang can help uplift mood. These scents help mothers unwind mentally and emotionally, even if they only have a few minutes to spare. The calming scents can create a bedtime ritual that signals the brain to relax, promoting better quality sleep, essential for rejuvenation.

7.       I want to teach my children the importance of selfcare. How can your products or approach be incorporated into a family selfcare routine, creating a positive example for my kids?

Incorporating selfcare into a family routine is a beautiful way to teach your children the importance of caring for both body and mind.

Children are keen observers, and they learn best by watching their parents. When they see you dedicating time to your own selfcare, they grasp its significance. Introduce simple rituals, like applying Body Oil after a shower or using a Foot Balm before bed and explain the reasons behind them. These small acts of care serve as valuable lessons, educating children about the importance of selfcare in maintaining wellbeing.

You can turn selfcare into a fun family bonding time. For example, create a family “spa night” where everyone participates. Let your children enjoy a gentle Foot Scrub, teaching them how to care for their skin. Both my son & daughter love doing a mini foot spa with the Foot Scrub.

Products like the Margarita Lime Foot Scrub or Balm can be used to give each other foot massages, fostering connection and relaxation.  I also have a FREE E Guide Spa at Home for Mothers & Daughters, a resource that encourages spending quality time with your child and making it a fun experience.   By making these activities a consistent part of your routine, children will understand that selfcare is not just an occasional treat, but a regular, valued part of life.

8.      I'm interested in supporting small businesses and female entrepreneurs. Please share your journey as a business owner and what inspired you to create Nourishing Mana.

The concept of Nourishing Mana was born from a deep passion for wellness and selfcare.  As a mother myself, I found that caring for my family often meant putting my own needs last, which left me feeling physically and mentally drained. I realised that many mothers, like me, struggled to find time for selfcare, often neglecting it due to the demands of family life.

I was also increasingly concerned about the harmful chemicals found in many mainstream skincare products. I wanted to ensure that what I was putting on my body was safe, natural, and effective. This realisation inspired me to create a brand centred around natural, ethically sourced ingredients and a minimalist approach to selfcare that could easily fit into a busy lifestyle. With Nourishing Mana, you can be confident in the safety of our products.

Starting Nourishing Mana wasn’t just about creating products; it was about crafting a philosophy that empowers women, especially mothers, to prioritise their wellbeing. I wanted to offer something that provided real benefits with minimal effort. The challenge was finding the right balance between simplicity and effectiveness.

My goal from the start was to create more than just a skincare brand—I wanted to create a movement that encouraged women to take time for themselves. I believe selfcare is a form of empowerment. When women care for themselves, they become stronger, more confident, and better equipped to take on the challenges of daily life. I wanted to provide products that not only nourish your skin but also support your empowerment journey.

Nourishing Mana is not just a brand; it reflects my journey as a mother, a business owner, and a woman committed to uplifting others. I want to continue growing this community, providing products that inspire confidence and peace, and supporting other female entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Ultimately, I hope that through Nourishing Mana, women—especially mothers—can reclaim the time and space for themselves that they deserve and feel empowered, confident, and nourished both inside and out.

9.       Beyond skincare, what other aspects of selfcare do you feel are essential for mothers to prioritise, and how can we find balance in our lives?

Beyond skincare, mothers can prioritise several key aspects of selfcare to nurture their overall wellbeing. Finding balance in the chaos of motherhood is possible when you focus on caring for yourself holistically.  A few key aspects that I find very helpful are:

Mindfulness and Meditation: A few minutes of mindfulness or deep breathing each day can help you stay grounded and reduce overwhelming feelings.

Journaling: A pen and paper are all you need to start this simple yet effective selfcare practice. Writing down your thoughts, feelings, or gratitude can provide an emotional release and a moment to reflect, helping you process your emotions and focus on the positives.

Exercise: It doesn’t have to be intense—a 20-minute walk, yoga session, or quick home workout can make a huge difference. Exercise releases endorphins, improves mood, and helps you maintain your physical health.

Sleep: Create a bedtime routine that lets you wind down and prioritise rest whenever possible.

Nutrition: Eating a balanced, nourishing diet is essential to keep up with the physical demands of motherhood. Preparing simple, healthy meals and staying hydrated can help you maintain your energy levels and overall health.

Many mothers, including myself, struggle with saying “no” or feeling the need to do everything for everyone. Setting healthy boundaries is not selfish; it's selfcare. It allows you to prioritise yourself and your wellbeing. 

Start small, manageable changes to your routine. Prioritise one or two areas of selfcare and build from there.  Most importantly, give yourself grace.  Some days, you may only have a few minutes & that is OK.

10.       Something I Wish People Knew About Me

 Something I wish people knew about me is that, as much as I am passionate about supporting others through my work and products, I am also on my journey of selfcare and balance.

Like many mothers and entrepreneurs, I often struggle to juggle family, business, and personal time. My commitment to natural wellness and selfcare isn't just a business philosophy—it's deeply personal and something I strive to incorporate into my life, even when things get overwhelming.  I am a work in progress & I truly believe that working on yourself is a lifelong commitment. I am always interested in learning & growth.

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Top Quotes

Helen like these quotes:   

“Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you.”  Katie Reed

“Every thought we think is creating our future,” Louise Hay

Mukti likes these quotes:

“Take the time today to love yourself. You deserve it.” Avina Celeste

“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this every moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” Oprah Winfrey

Questions and Reflections

1.      When was the last time you truly prioritised yourself in your daily routine?

2.      How could nurturing your body and mind help you regain balance?

3.      What small steps can you take today to start rediscovering your inner power?

Conclusion

At Nourishing Mana, Helen reminds women of their inner strength and the importance of selfcare. You can live a more balanced, fulfilled life by embracing products and routines that align with your values. Together, we can create space for you to thrive, not just survive, in your personal and professional life.

Connect with me:

Ready to level up your life? ⚡ Book a FREE 30-minute call with me, and let's see if we're a match. Together, we'll unlock your potential and help you achieve your goals.

Join the Gang: Join our community and share your experiences, insights, and any burning questions you have. Let’s build a supportive space where growth and transformation aren’t just goals—they’re what we do!

Here’s to a more vibrant, energised, and thriving you!

Thanks for being here, and let’s kickstart your growth and toast to your successes as you unlock your full potential!

Do you have questions? Don’t be shy—drop me a line! I love chatting with our awesome community.

Feeling stuck in a rut and yearning for a life transformation?

Blog 72 is coming on October 27th! Mums, feeling overwhelmed by the invisible load of family life? 😓 In this blog, we'll dive into practical ways to lighten your daily mental and emotional weight and reclaim energy. Don’t miss it—mark your calendar! 📅

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With much Love

Mukti Santos 

It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself and to make your happiness a priority it’s necessary.” Mandy Hale

Journal Prompts