Today, I’m opening up about a topic that’s deeply personal to me but also central to the heart of MIRRI. It’s a story of struggle, healing, and rediscovery - my journey with mental health and how I found solace in yoga, mindfulness, and the healing power of nature. I hope that by sharing my experience, it will resonate with those who may be struggling and inspire others to embrace practices that bring peace and presence into their lives.
The Struggle: Losing Myself in the Chaos
There was a time when I felt completely overwhelmed by life. Anxiety, depression, and burnout had become familiar companions, casting a shadow over even the simplest joys. The constant pressure to keep going left me exhausted, both mentally and physically. I often found myself drifting, going through the motions without truly experiencing them. Stress and self-doubt weighed me down, and I became disconnected from the things that used to bring me happiness.
It’s not easy to talk about these moments. For so long, I felt ashamed for struggling. I thought I was supposed to have it all together, to push through and carry on as if everything was fine. But the truth is, mental health is a journey, not a destination. And that journey doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. It’s a process of learning to flow with the natural ebb and flow of life - the light and the dark, the highs and the lows and to honour where we are in each moment.
Discovering a Path to Healing
My journey towards healing didn’t begin with a grand revelation or a moment of clarity. It started slowly, with small acts of self-compassion. I began exploring different ways to bring a sense of calm into my life, and that’s when I stumbled upon yoga. At first, it was simply a way to get some exercise, but soon, I realised it was so much more than that.
Yoga wasn’t just about moving my body; it was about connecting with it. I began to notice how each stretch, each breath, could help me release tension that had been building up for years. It became a safe space where I could listen to my body and mind without judgement, allowing myself to be vulnerable. Gradually, I found that the more I practised, the more I could quiet the negative thoughts that had been looping in my head.
Embracing Mindfulness and Being Present
Yoga naturally led me to the practice of mindfulness, which became another cornerstone in my healing process. Mindfulness is all about being present, truly experiencing each moment as it comes. It sounds simple, but for someone who’d been lost in their thoughts for so long, it was revolutionary.
By practising mindfulness, I learnt to appreciate the little things again: the warmth of the sun on my face, the feeling of fresh grass beneath my feet, the sound of leaves rustling in the woods. I made it a habit to start my mornings with a quiet meditation, setting intentions for the day and grounding myself. These moments of stillness began to shift my perspective. Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, I could finally find peace in the present.
Reconnecting with Nature: The Ultimate Healer
I’ve always felt a connection with nature, but during my most difficult times, I forgot how healing it could be. As I embraced mindfulness, I found myself drawn back to the outdoors. Nature became my sanctuary - a place where I could escape the noise and just be.
Whether it was walking along wooded paths, practising yoga on the beach, or simply sitting in my garden and listening to the birds, being outside became a form of therapy for me. There’s something incredibly soothing about the rhythm of nature; it reminds us that everything is in a constant state of change, and it’s okay to ebb and flow with life’s ups and downs.
Finding My Purpose: The Birth of MIRRI
As I continued on this path of healing, I knew I wanted to share the practices that had helped me with others. That’s how MIRRI came to be. I wanted to create a space where people could feel supported and encouraged to explore yoga, mindfulness, and the simple joys of life. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about creating a community where we can share our experiences, lift each other up, and grow together.
At MIRRI, we believe in the power of small moments. It’s the mindful breath you take before starting your day, the cup of tea you savour without rushing, the gratitude you feel when you see the sun set. Our products are crafted to help you cultivate these moments, to bring a touch of mindfulness and serenity into your everyday life.
Embracing the Journey Together
I’m still on this journey, and I don’t have all the answers. But I’ve come to accept that healing is not about reaching a place where you no longer struggle; it’s about finding ways to navigate those struggles with grace and self-love. It’s about giving yourself permission to be human, to embrace the highs and the lows, and to find beauty in the in-between.
If you’re reading this and you’re feeling lost, I want you to know that you’re not alone. Healing is possible, even if it doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. Whether you find peace in yoga, meditation, nature, or simply taking time to rest, know that your journey is valid, and every step you take is a step towards a better tomorrow.
Thank you for being a part of the MIRRI community. Let’s continue to support each other, embrace mindfulness, and find moments of magic in our everyday lives.
With love and light,
Jenna,
MIRRI x