Verena, how does the collaboration with Pharmos Natur feel for you? How did it come about? 

The collaboration feels like a “yes” from my inner center - honest, deep and right. I had long felt that I wanted to work with a brand that was truly in harmony with nature and people. When I came across Pharmos Natur, I immediately had this inner tingling sensation. It wasn't so much a “How did this come about?” - but rather a “Of course!”. 

What immediately fascinated you? The philosophy, the products or something completely different? 

I was immediately touched by the philosophy. The idea that plant beings carry a living intelligence within them and that we should treat them with respect was something that deeply resonated with me. But also the products themselves - they are not only effective, they have a soul. And you can feel that. This is completely in line with my own values. 

How do you combine mindfulness and self-care with your modern lifestyle and what role does nature play in this? 

For me, mindfulness is not a fixed date in the calendar, but an attitude that I invite into my everyday life. It's about consciously pausing again and again in the midst of the hustle and bustle. Nature is my greatest teacher here - it reminds me that everything has its time. And that beauty is often created in silence. It is often enough for me to ask myself while washing my hands: “Am I aware?” - and bang, I'm back to myself. This brings me into a different consciousness and helps me to arrive in the moment.

Do you have a ritual or habit for particularly stressful days? And perhaps a tip? 

On days when there's a lot going on outside, I consciously turn inwards.I light a candle, spray my aura spray, close my eyes and connect with my breath.Just three deep, conscious breaths can work a small miracle.My tip: create your very own mini-ritual.It can be very simple - a small altar with a candle, a beautiful stone, perhaps a picture that inspires you. I also love the “Sa Ta Na Ma” exercise from Kundalini yoga - you can even do it in the shower or outside on a walk. It immediately brings calm, clarity and connection. 

Which book, place or experience last touched you deeply? 

The book The Creative Act - A Way of Being by Rick Rubin moved me deeply. It is an invitation to see life itself as a creative act - intuitive, courageous, honest. It reminds me that true creation comes from within. That what we want to express already lives within us. Completing the cover of my children's book Luke's Journey to the Heart of the World was a very personal experience for me. Experiencing this moment together with a wonderful team was pure magic. I felt again how powerful it is to believe in your own dreams - even (or especially) when they seem childish or naive at first. And there it was again - that inner “hell yes”. This feeling that the heart leads. Always.