Mindful Makers

Welcome to Mindful Makers, where wellbeing, business, and creativity meet to inspire positive change.In this episode, we're exploring a subject that's come up time and time again in the Mindful Makers community: clean beauty.We live in a world where many products are marketed as natural, sustainable, conscious or clean. Yet behind the labels, the reality can be far more complex.Wellness has become both a movement and a marketplace, leaving many of us navigating an overwhelming amount of information about what's supposedly best for our bodies.So how do we know what to trust? And how do we separate genuine integrity from clever marketing?I'm joined by Katral-Nada Hassan, co-founder of SAAF Skincare, to explore what clean beauty really means, the questions we should be asking about our skincare products and how we can make more informed choices without becoming overwhelmed by it all.Clean beauty and greenwashing: What does clean beauty actually mean, and why should we look beyond the marketing?Ingredient awareness: Understanding skincare labels, preservatives and the conversation around potential endocrine disruptors.Retinol and bakuchiol: Rethinking anti-ageing skincare, skin sensitivity and the alternatives available.Ancient ingredients, modern skincare: The role of frankincense and myrrh in the story behind SAAF.Skincare and self-awareness: Why understanding our skin and connecting with our bodies matters just as much as what we apply.Building with integrity: The choices, values and research involved in creating a skincare brand that stays true to its principles.Beyond skincare, this is a conversation about discernment, curiosity and learning to ask better questions in a world full of competing claims.Because making more conscious choices isn't about getting everything right. It's about staying curious and making more informed choices.SAAF is a female-founded beauty brand reviving Middle Eastern rituals through modern skincare.Founded by Katral-Nada Hassan and Nabaa Alatrakchi, the UAE-based brand was born from a shared appreciation for family heritage, traditional beauty rituals and the power of botanical ingredients.At its heart is a philosophy of restraint: choosing ingredients with intention rather than overwhelming the skin with unnecessary additions.From cold-pressed botanical oils to high-grade frankincense sourced from Oman, SAAF brings together traditional wisdom, thoughtful formulations and a commitment to transparency.Discover SAAF Skincare:Website: https://saafskin.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saaf.skincare/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saaf.skincareSAAF have kindly offered the Mindful Makers community 15% off their products on their website.Use code MINDFULMAKERS15 at checkout.Explore SAAF: https://saafskin.comWant to show your love and support for Mindful Makers and help our community grow? Here are a few ways:Follow and subscribe to Mindful Makers on your favourite podcast platform.Leave a rating or review. I always appreciate hearing what resonates with you.Share this episode with a friend, family member or anyone you think might enjoy the conversation.Join me on Instagram @sorshaa.edits for more reflections, conversations and behind-the-scenes moments.Find Mindful Makers here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6EP1TXXGJRxVdDaCbWHAp9Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mindful-makers/id1681272786YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MindfulMakersPodcastConnect with Sahar and Sorshaa:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sorshaa.edits/Website: https://www.sorshaa.comThank you for listening and for being part of this growing community.With gratitude,Sahar-----DISCLAIMERThe views expressed are those of the individual speakers. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent medical conditions, or replace professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance.

What does it really take to build a music career, and stay true to yourself along the way?In the Season Three finale of Mindful Makers, guitarist, composer, and entrepreneur Niki Mukhi shares his journey from global stages to self-discovery. A PRS Pulse Artist and multi-genre musician, Niki has performed at Glastonbury Festival, the Cologne Philharmonic, and Mumbai’s NMACC, composed for international theatre and film, and collaborated with artists including Joss Stone, Yasmin Levy, Ustad Aashish Khan and many more.He’s also brought his sound to brands like Hermès, Chanel, and Dior, showing how creativity can thrive at the crossroads of art, business, and purpose.In our conversation, Niki opens up about the mindset shifts that helped him navigate challenges, stay grounded through change, and build a sustainable career as an independent artist.✨ We explore:• How to balance creativity with structure and self-discipline• What it means to be the “CEO” of your own career• Why curiosity and kindness matter as much as talent• The difference between performing, creating, and truly being in the musicWhether you’re a musician, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to reconnect with your craft, this episode is a soulful reminder that growth and purpose can coexist...if you learn to treat your art like a living, evolving practice.🌟 Follow Niki Mukhi: instagram.com/nikimukhii | YouTube.com/nikimukhi💫 Follow Mindful Makers: @sorshaa.edits and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MindfulMakersPodcast🎶 Listen now and learn how to be the CEO of your own sound.

This week on Mindful Makers, I sit down with Dr Geraldine Naidoo, a trauma, stress, anxiety, and ADHD specialist with over 20 years of experience In nervous system regulation.Her approach combines deep science with soul, drawing from quantum theory and somatic interventions to offer trauma-informed care that’s tailored, not templated. Her practice is informed by trauma pioneers including:• Dr Gabor Maté (Compassionate Inquiry)• Dr Bessel van der Kolk (Trauma Counselling)• Dr Stephen Porges (Polyvagal Theory)• Peter Levine (Somatic Experiencing)• Dr David Berceli (TRE)• Thomas Hübl (Collective Trauma)• Kaya Leigh (Sacred Breathwork)In this episode, we explore:Why trauma is so complex and how it affects your body, brain, and relationshipsWhy healing stress and anxiety isn’t one-size-fits-allReasons trauma manifests in leadership, parenting, and workplace dynamicsThe debate between corporate wellness responsibility vs personal accountabilityThe connection between trauma, burnout, and menopauseWhat nervous system regulation actually feels like and how to find the right support for your healing pathWhether you’re a CEO, a parent, or somewhere in between, this episode offers practical tools and powerful insights for anyone navigating anxiety or trauma.______________________📚 Resources & Links:🔗 Learn more about Dr. Geraldine Naidoo’s work: Visit: https://www.drgeraldine.comFollow: https://www.instagram.com/dr_geraldinenaidooConnect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldine-naidoo_______________________Explore my work 🌐 Visit: https://www.sorshaa.com📸 Follow me on Instagram: @sorshaa.edits🎙 Watch other Mindful Makers episodes on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more.✨ “The body remembers what the mind tries to forget.” ~ Dr Bessel van der KolkLet this episode be a step toward greater peace, presence, and possibility.👍 Remember to like, comment, share & subscribe if this episodes resonated with you.With gratitude,Sahar

What drives someone to step beyond their comfort zone and dedicate their life to helping others?In this episode of Mindful Makers, I sit down with Imad Yassin, Founder & Chairman of The Idris Foundation, whose journey from scientist to humanitarian was anything but planned. What started as an unexpected pivot became a lifelong commitment to creating generational change.We explore:✨ The silent barriers to kindness, empathy & connection✨ Choosing vulnerability and why stepping into discomfort brings us closer✨ How selfless acts of service reshape our sense of purpose✨ The power of education in refugee camps, especially for girls✨ Why trust & transparency in philanthropy are essential✨ The addictive nature of giving, and why it transforms us as much as others✨ How mindfulness & media consumption impact our ability to give🔗 Connect with Imad & The Idris Foundation:🌍 Website: https://idrisfoundation.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idrisfoundation/Find out how you can help by contacting [email protected]🌟 Want to show your love and support for the Mindful Makers podcast and help grow the community? You can:• Follow, like, and subscribe to the show• Follow us on Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sorshaa.edits/⁠• Comment on or rate the episode• Share it with your friends and fam• Share it on your socials!✨ With gratitude,Sahar

Liberty Gelderloos shares how Water Flow Therapy, Watsu, and the healing power of water can support deep relaxation, stress relief, and nervous system reset. Together, we explore the power of water to help decompress stress from daily life, unwind tension from work, and create a deep state of relaxation.As a Certified Liquid Flow Provider trained through Watsu India and the Worldwide Aquatic Bodywork Association (WABA), Liberty brings deep expertise in aquatic bodywork. She explains how these therapies work, why water is one of the most powerful environments for nervous system regulation, and how incorporating water therapy into your self-care routine can help you feel more grounded and restored (and get better sleep – which let’s be honest, we could all use! 😴)What You’ll Learn:✔️ What Watsu and Water Flow Therapy are and how they work✔️ How water helps reset the nervous system and relieve built-up stress✔️ Why this is a powerful self-care practice for relaxation and emotional well-being✔️ Who can benefit from aquatic therapy (including skeptics!)✔️ How these practices integrate with other healing modalities🌊 Whether you're seeking new ways to de-stress, looking for deeper relaxation, or curious about the healing potential of water, this conversation is for you.Connect with Liberty & Learn More About Water Therapy:🔹 Website: https://www.sheisliberty.com/waterflow🔹 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheisliberty/https://www.instagram.com/waterflow_therapy/🔹 Want to learn more about Watsu & Aquatic Bodywork? Visit https://www.watsu.com/🎧 Liberty’s chosen track: Digital Sangoma: Magic in the Waterhttps://open.spotify.com/track/6MhEQCZBqWYbBDJzcHwJfX?si=35552d8742a148a3 🌟 Want to show your love and support for the Mindful Makers podcast and help grow the community? You can:• Follow, like, and subscribe to the show• Follow us on Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sorshaa.edits/⁠• Comment on or rate the episode• Share it with your friends and fam• Share it on your socials!Learn more about my work at www.sorshaa.com.With gratitude,Sahar ✨

What if your body already knew how to release stress and trauma, naturally?In this powerful episode, we launch Season Three of Mindful Makers with Dr. David Berceli, creator ofTrauma Releasing Exercises (TRE), exploring how our bodies store, process, and release trauma. We break down thescience of shaking, why some people instantly make us feel safe while others don’t, and howour nervous system is wired for healing…if we allow it.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ HowTRE helps release stored tension in the body✅ Why some people make you feelcalm and safe while others don’t (nervous system co-regulation)✅ Thebiological reason shaking relieves stress✅ Howtrauma impacts us differently depending on our support system✅ What happens whenstress and trauma go unprocessed✅ How yourgenetics and anatomy shape your stress responseDr. Berceli also answers:• Why does trauma feel heavier without a support system?• How does the nervous system influence relationships?• Can TRE help with everyday stress and anxiety?This is a thought-provoking conversation that will shift the way you think abouttrauma, stress, and healing. Whether you're new toTRE or looking for deeper insight, this episode will give youpractical takeaways to start reconnecting with your body.🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:🌍 Learn more about TRE:traumaprevention.com📲 Follow Dr. Berceli on Instagram:@davidberceli🌟 Want to show your love and support for the Mindful Makers podcast and help grow the community? You can:• Follow, like, and subscribe to the show• Follow us on [email protected]• Comment on or rate the episode• Share it with your friends and fam• Share it on your socials!✨ With gratitude,Sahar

To celebrate the end of the year, I’m sharing something truly special with the Mindful Makers community: an intimate conversation with my mum, Shiva. Together, we reflect on the different eras of our lives; both as mother and daughter and as individuals. It’s a deeply emotional chat filled with raw honesty, ancestral healing, and moments of compassion that deepen our understanding of one another. I’ve flipped the format for this bonus episode so I’m not the only one asking the questions! Join us as we discuss our relationship, the highs and lows we’ve navigated, and how being raised by a single parent shaped who I am today. Expect laughter, tears, and a healthy dose of motherly wisdom. Whether you’re reflecting on your own mother-daughter bond, exploring the realities of single motherhood, or drawn to stories of personal growth, resilience, and healing, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of presence, compassion, and shared reflection. It’s an invitation to explore the intricacies of family dynamics, navigating parenthood, and the beauty of intergenerational conversations.

To celebrate International Colour Day and the Spring Equinox, we sit down with Global Colour Ambassador and creator of Colour PsychoDynamics, the world-renowned colour expert Mark Wentworth. Join us as Mark explains the intricate world of Colour PsychoDynamics, exploring how it can bridge the gap between personal identity and purpose. With over 37 years of experience, Mark has guided groups, brands, and individuals in discovering their essence and harnessing the power of colour to overcome challenges through symbolism, theatre, archetypes, and the personification of colour. Colour is deeply ingrained in our daily existence, yet its significance often goes unnoticed by many. There are many industries worldwide that rely heavily on colour choices and symbolism for success. Institutes such as Pantone and Coloro are famous for working with trend forecasters like WGSN on colour predictions; naming colours for each year and season. From influencing our decisions to shaping our social interactions, colour speaks directly to the subconscious and helps us express ourselves beyond words which can lead to transformative results. As the godfather of colour psychology, Carl Jung famously said, "Colours are the mother tongue of the subconscious". Tune in to discover your colour profile and unlock new pathways to personal growth and fulfilment. Available across Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and more. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Explore Mark’s work and find your colour profile: https://www.colourforlife.com/ Follow Mark: https://www.instagram.com/iamcolourforlife/ For a free 15 minute consultation with Mark, email [email protected] with “Mindful Makers” in the subject line. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 🌟 Want to show your love and support for the Mindful Makers podcast and help grow the community? You can: - Follow, like, and subscribe to the show - Follow us on instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sorshaa.edits/⁠ - Comment on or rate the episode - Share it with your friends and fam - Share it on your socials! With gratitude, Sahar

What does true success look like when we break free from conventional definitions? How do we turn setbacks into stepping stones? And where do we cross the line between motivation, passion and burnout? In this week's episode of Mindful Makers, we explore these questions and much more with our special guest, Izzy Abidi. As the Head of Business and Legal Affairs for Netflix MENA, Izzy brings a wealth of experience and advice for creatives. From founding impactful brands like Freshly Ground Sounds to enhancing the creative landscape of the UAE with Asli Studios, her journey has been dynamic and inspiring. Join us as we reframe some 'F' words (fears and failures) and explore alternative perspectives of meaningful success beyond modern capitalist constraints. 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Youtube, and more. Join the conversation and unlock new perspectives on success, creativity, and the art of balancing it all. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Izzy here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ismatabidi/ Explore the Freshly Ground Sounds archive here: https://www.instagram.com/freshlygroundsounds https://www.freshlygroundsounds.com/ ---------------------------------------------------------------- 🌟 Want to show your love and support for the Mindful Makers podcast and help grow the community? You can: - Follow, like, and subscribe to the show - Follow us on instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sorshaa.edits/⁠ - Comment on or rate the episode - Share it with your friends and fam - Share it on your socials! With gratitude, Sahar

Meet Meshary AlNassar, the Kuwaiti Architect and Designer who lives and breathes design. His love for interiors, architecture, and product design has caught the eye of big names like Architectural Digest and the Financial Times, putting him on the global design map early in his career. From residential interiors to game-changing healthcare designs, Meshary's touch has left a lasting impact on the Middle Eastern design scene, with his studio being named amongst the top designers and architects in the Middle East by Architectural Digest Middle East in 2024. In this episode, we unpack the intricate balance between trends and timeless aesthetics, self-care and success, and contemplate that growth can sometimes mean slowing down. Get ready for a heartwarming chat as Meshary opens up about his personal mental health journey and sheds light on the importance of well-being in the creative process and how conversations around mental health in the GCC are changing for the better. **Note: Meshary’s chosen song is by Mayada El Hennawy (not Warda)** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdNDD0_bu68 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Meshary here: https://www.instagram.com/mesharyalnassar/ Studio: https://www.mesharyalnassar.com/ https://www.instagram.com/studiomesharyalnassar/?hl=en ---------------------------------------------------------------- 🌟 Want to show your love and support for the Mindful Makers podcast and help grow the community? You can: - Follow, like, and subscribe to the show - Follow us on instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sorshaa.edits/⁠ - Comment on or rate the episode - Share it with your friends and fam - Share it on your socials! With gratitude, Sahar