By: Bella Fitzpatrick

Kate, can you elaborate on some key experiences that have influenced your perspective on the importance of self-care and wellness? 

It’s been a really long journey I didn’t pay attention before to the importance of self-care and wellness in my life. I’ve always been an achiever and a party-goer, so all my time was occupied with work and parties. I thought this was perfectly normal, as everyone in my circle behaved the same way. But since I moved to LA, I found myself surrounded by people who put self-care and wellness first. These people really inspired me: firstly, they were always smiling and in a great mood, and secondly, I met many women older than me who looked younger. So, I decided to just try and dedicate some time to self-care and wellness. It was just an experiment. And I really liked it!

Firstly, it greatly affects your appearance, as whatever a person does to themselves, their external state is always reflected in their face and posture. Secondly, it teaches you to spend time on yourself, and your sense of self, so you spend your time more consciously, excluding what distracts you from your main goals. So, I can say that my journey to self-care and wellness was influenced by the community here, for which I am very grateful. 

What does wellness mean to you, and how does it play a role in your daily life and routines? 

Now, this is my style and way of life. I start each morning with what I call the magic of the morning, dedicating time to myself, my appearance, and the state of my body and mind. Of course, it takes a lot of time and discipline to get used to this routine. But for me, it’s very important to start the morning right. I call it the ‘morning magic’ – taking care of my appearance, doing exercises, and meditating. I’ve noticed that this sets the tone for my entire day positively, and meditation helps me focus and manage my emotions. So, no matter what comes my way at work, I’m always calm, which allows me to make more considered decisions. As for self-care, the more time I devote to myself, the better I look, despite getting older every year. Focusing on self-care has really changed how I perceive and look at myself, and as a result, it has transformed how I communicate with others. 

Can you share some of your personal wellness practices or rituals that you find particularly effective in maintaining mental and emotional health?

 I’d love to share some of my personal wellness practices that I find especially effective for maintaining my mental and emotional health. My go-to practices are meditation, yoga, and hiking. Meditation has been a cornerstone for me; it aids in sharpening my concentration and plays a crucial role in managing my emotions. It’s like a mental reset that brings clarity and calmness to my day.

Yoga, on the other hand, is nothing short of magical. I owe a lot to my yoga instructors; their lessons are not just physical exercises but a form of spiritual journey that leaves me rejuvenated. The impact of yoga on my body’s flexibility and strength is profound, but more importantly, it harmonizes my mind and body, creating a sense of inner peace.

Hiking is my escape into nature. It’s a practice of disconnecting from the digital world and immersing myself in the tranquility of the outdoors. The beauty I encounter during these hikes is breathtaking and serves as an aesthetic pleasure that refreshes my soul. These moments in nature are not just physically invigorating but also a fertile ground for creative thoughts and ideas. It’s during these hikes that I often find myself coming up with some of my most creative solutions and ideas. Incorporating these practices into my routine has not only enhanced my physical well-being but has profoundly impacted my mental and emotional health. They help me maintain a balanced and harmonious state of mind, which is essential in today’s fast-paced world. 

What Collective Resiliency products do you recommend? What makes this product stand out in supporting resilience and mental health?

 I’m really fond of Collective Resiliency’s essential oils and herbal teas. The essential oils help me create the perfect atmosphere at home. The essential oils not only enhance the ambiance but also have therapeutic properties that can reduce stress and improve sleep quality. As for the teas, I don’t go for the mass-market, bagged teas; I absolutely adore herbal teas – they’re tastier and much healthier. These teas are natural, devoid of any artificial additives, and they do wonders for physical health. 

They bring a sense of calm, aid in mental clarity, and help me unwind. Finding good herbal teas in LA was a challenge, and I’m so glad I discovered Collective Resiliency.  

What does wellness mean to you, and how do you integrate it into your daily life? Are there specific principles or practices that guide your wellness philosophy?

Wellness, to me, is a harmonious blend of mental, emotional, and physical health. It’s about creating a life that balances these aspects through mindful practices and self-care. In my daily life, wellness is not just an activity; it’s a lifestyle, a philosophy that guides every choice I make.

Could you tell us about your collaboration with Collective Resiliency as a wellness brand? What shared values do you bring to the collective mission of supporting mental and emotional self-care and well-being? 

My collaboration with Collective Resiliency as a wellness brand has been an incredibly fulfilling journey. Our shared values of prioritizing mental and emotional self-care resonate deeply with my personal wellness philosophy. My ‘morning magic’ ritual, my dedication to yoga , and my newfound appreciation for gratitude journals are more than just routines; they are life-changing experiences that I share with the community. Moreover, working with Collective Resiliency has allowed me to meet and connect with more people who value the same principles of wellness and self-care. This has been incredibly affirming for me, as it shows that I’m on the right path. It’s a community where we all understand the importance of taking care of our mental and emotional health, and together, we’re committed to spreading this message and helping others find their path to wellness. 

For individuals looking to prioritize their mental and emotional well-being, what advice would you offer based on your experiences as a health enthusiast and your collaboration with Collective Resiliency?

 I understand that starting a wellness routine can be challenging, especially if it’s new territory. My advice? Just keep going and stay committed to your path. In the beginning, I kept a calendar of my routine and made an effort to stick to it as much as possible, even when I wasn’t in the right mood. It’s fascinating how quickly your mood shifts once you get into the flow of your practice. Another key piece of advice is to surround yourself with the right people who share your values. This has been a game-changer for me, especially through my collaboration with Collective Resiliency. 

Being around like-minded individuals who prioritize mental and emotional well-being can be incredibly motivating and supportive. It creates an environment where you’re constantly inspired and encouraged to maintain your wellness journey. 

How can we learn more about you?

You can follow my journey on instagram @kateigolka

Brand: Collective Resiliency  @collectiveresiliency
Wellness Ambassador: Kate Halauko          
Photographer: Lana Palmer                                                       
Makeup Artist: Valerie Brown                                                      
Creative Director: Arina Rozova