Why Always Blooming?
My journey started during a difficult period in my life, marked by a series of devastating events. These events not only affected me but also deeply impacted my mum, my dad and my two older sisters, leaving us all feeling hopeless about the future.
In the midst of our shared grief and desire to move forward, we had a heartfelt conversation one late October evening. It was during this conversation that we recognised the need for change, not just for ourselves but for others who silently struggle with mental health and lack support. We all felt a strong desire to make a difference by sharing our own stories and giving a voice to those who need it most.
And so, Always Blooming came into existence.
Always Blooming is more than just a business to me—it reflects my values of loyalty, integrity, and respect. It is my life purpose, driven by the emotional weight of my own journey. I want to create a safe space where others feel heard, supported, and empowered. Our hair oil, inspired by my sister's ongoing battle with hair loss, is a testament to our commitment to addressing personal challenges.
With inspiration from my grandad, I strive to become a guiding light of hope✨
What drove your personal growth?
Life Experience
The personal growth I have experienced was motivated by witnessing tragic events in the lives of my loved ones. In June 2022, I went through the devastating loss of my nan. She had been isolated in a care home, which was heart-wrenching for all of us. Our reunion after 2 years following battling court of protection challenges was bittersweet, as it turned out to be our last meeting before she passed away just one week later. I will always remember the twinkle in her eye and the joy she expressed when she saw us walk into her room, even surprising the nurses.
The pain continued as I experienced the heart-breaking loss of my aunt, who passed away within a mere six months of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Rather than allowing bitterness to consume my heart, I am determined to channel my pain into making a positive change. I understood that I couldn't make a difference in others' lives until I prioritised my own self-growth. It became clear that one cannot pour from an empty cup.
Self-awareness
Self-awareness has been essential in my personal growth, allowing me to recognise my strengths, weaknesses, and values, encouraging me to make authentic choices on my healing journey.
I am more aware and able to isolate negative thoughts. By rewiring my brain, when a negative voice emerges, I respond with a firm "not right now."
Spirituality
Spirituality has played a big role in my personal growth journey. I believe in the limitless possibilities of the universe, I practice gratitude and manifest my dreams to travel & progress with fitness on my personal vision board.
Understanding the impact of energy and the importance of surrounding myself with positive influences has been transformative.
Symbols like feathers have provided reassurance from my granddad, and use of white sage has become a regular ritual in my home for cleansing negative and inviting positive energy.
Spirituality brings me peace and fuels my personal growth.
What is your morning routine?The first thing is working out, usually weight training....before I can make an excuse not to!
I prioritise exercise because I now recognise that I typically produce more cortisol, the stress hormone. Exercise boosts my endorphins and reduces cortisol, I feel calmer, and it sets me up for a more productive day.
Have you ever personally battled with mental illness?
Yes, and it continues to be an ongoing journey for me.
I've struggled with OCD, intrusive thoughts, and anxiety on and off since I was 16.
The loss of my grandad in December 2015 added to my struggles, and the lack of understanding and support from my schoolteachers made it even harder to cope. Because of this at 16, I made the tough decision to leave my secondary school: Dr Challoner’s Grammar school and say goodbye to my childhood friends.
I have also faced challenges with insomnia and had small moments where I have felt suicidal. It hasn't been easy, but I remain resilient and determined to overcome these challenges as I continue to find healing within myself.
What have you done to help overcome mental health struggles?
My fitness journey
I knew I had to prioritise my physical health, so I started to look for a personal trainer and discovered Arjhan Fit Gains. His guidance and personalised approach have made a huge impact on my mental health journey.
I needed someone who understood my challenges beyond the physical, and working with Arjhan was the perfect alignment for what I needed.
Agile, working with someone who was able to adapt and adjust fitness and nutrition plans quickly to my ever-changing personal circumstances.
Arjhan went beyond being a personal trainer; he was a coach and maybe unknowingly became a mentor for me. The care and dedication to my well-being sets him apart from any therapist I have worked with. Understanding my goals and challenges, he provided me personalised guidance that's both effective and meaningful. His passion for holistic transformation makes him an invaluable mentor on my journey. His support was truly transformative.
Daily check-ins kept me accountable and motivated, pushing me to move forward even on the toughest days. With consistent guidance, I have built a growth mindset.
Becoming educated through my plan about macros, the impact of food on mental health, and calories has transformed my approach to nutrition. I've shifted from consuming unhealthy fast foods that left me feeling lethargic to fuelling my body with nourishing options that boost my energy and uplift my mood.
I started to see positive changes in my mental health within just 8 weeks of staying consistent of my 24-week plan.
In reflection, I am grateful for the incredible partnership I have with Arjhan. He has not only been a personal trainer but also a mentor, a motivator, and a friend. His passion, expertise, and steady support have truly made my mental health journey a truly empowering and life-changing experience.
You can find out more about Arjhan Fit Gains here.
What advice would you give to someone who is yet to start their healing journey?
One of the biggest regrets I have is not expressing my symptoms and keeping my feelings to myself. It was only when my sisters heard me crying in my bedroom at the age of 16 that they realised something was wrong. Opening and confiding in the people I love about my struggles with them was my biggest breakthroughs to start recovery.
Self-awareness is crucial in this journey. Take the time to discover who are you? what drives you? what sparks your passion? what gives you energy? and what brings a smile to your face? Once you have that self-awareness, make a commitment to consistently engaged in those activities that align with your true self.
Additionally, confiding in someone you trust and seeking professional help and support are essential steps. Obtaining a diagnosis from a professional can guide you towards the appropriate treatment and resources.
Remember, your mental health journey is unique to you, and it's important to prioritise your own self-care, seek support, and stay committed to activities that bring you joy and satisfaction.
Journaling
Journaling has been an invaluable tool for me in overcoming mental challenges and quieting the worries in my mind. By writing positive affirmations and expressing my experiences, I can reduce feelings of overwhelm and mental clutter. I've found that journaling in the evening is particularly beneficial, as it allows me to unwind and reflect on my day, promoting a sense of calm and clarity.
Your favourite motivational lyrics?
"Ambition is Priceless, It’s Something That’s In Your Veins" - Wale ft Meek Mill & Rick Ross.
These lyrics emphasises the importance of ambition as a powerful force that drives you to pursue your goals and achieve success.
Final thoughts
I have come to terms with the fact that this battle is ongoing. It still surfaces from time to time, reminding me of its presence. But I have also learned that I am stronger than my mental health challenges. Through therapy, self-care practices, and a supportive network, I have found ways to manage and cope with these difficulties.
One thing I want you all to remember is that it’s okay to have setbacks and moments when it feels overwhelming. What matters is that we continue to persevere, seek help when needed, and prioritise our well-being. We are not defined by our mental health struggles but by our resilience and determination to lead the best life we possibly can.