MEET ZEHRA, FOUNDER OF THE SELF LOVE LAB

For our first edition of The Self Love Hub Q&A Series, we spoke to Zehra - a Sound Healing practitioner and founder of The Self Love Lab. Keen to explore alternative healing practices and methods of self-care during the pandemic, Zehra came to Sound Therapy. Since then, she has sought to bring more awareness to the benefits of this practice through facilitating carefully curated events mingling experts in the wellness field and intrinsic self-care seminars with sound healing. The result has been a number of elevating workshops with The Self Love Lab which offer attendees opportunities to enrich their lives and explore new outlets. We think this is a much needed endeavour in our high-stress contemporary world and we are so happy to kick off the start of this series chatting to her!

MEET ZEHRA

How did your journey with TSLL begin/what were the factors leading you to start your own business?

“To summarise, In 2020 (during covid) whilst still working a 9-5 I discovered the holistic healing world. I learnt about crystal healing, spiritual healing and most importantly sound healing. I would listen to sound baths on youtube as I went to sleep each night (Searching for things like frequencies for anxiety or frequencies for self love). Depending on my mood I would find a frequency and have it on all night. I decided to get trained in sound healing, for myself, as a hobby. I became obsessed with the science behind it and of course how i felt every time I experienced a session. I spent the next year learning and using sound healing to heal and help myself.

In 2022 I decided to host an event (not sure what led me to this, maybe it was a calling) I thought if no one attends its fine, my friends will be there and that’s all that matters. The event ended up selling out which was just crazy, my first event in London sold out, 30 amazing souls attended. (my friends sat at the back and i know my nerves got to me because you could hardly hear me) Anyway, I loved holding this sound bath so much, I decided to start holding sessions once a month, once a month then turned into twice a month which then turned into three times a month and so on!

There was never a plan or strategy i just let community feedback and energy lead the way. The Self Love Lab then shaped into what it is today which is an incredible community and wellbeing ecosystem.”

There are so many challenges when it comes to growing a business, If I had to pick one, it would be self sabotaging thoughts. I entered this industry not knowing a single soul, creating and holding spaces alone. It's so easy to get swept away with self doubt, BUT i found that this slowly left once i really put myself out there. I pushed myself a lot to hold workshops (as an introvert), reflecting on how much the community has grown and the constant feedback i receive at events really helps me realise this. Self doubt will always have its moment but i think it’s important to reflect on how far i’ve come and how most times these feelings arise it’s because i am on the edge of something great.

Did you face any challenges?

Do you have any tips/advice for new business-owners and can you give any tips for staying on top of the work

I don't know if im the best person for this question because my to do list kills me, but my top tips that have helped me are prioritise always, take a break if you're not getting through your to do list as it most likely means you're burning out. Don't feel guilty for taking breaks and start small. Do the easy things first!

How did you identify the need for curated wellness events in London?

I could never find places for myself, as a woman in my 20s who wanted to attend events with girls just like me, it literally didn't exist. My approach is very science driven, there are some incredible spiritual spaces in London however I could never find spaces for the girls who wanted a softer approach. Science backed but very intentional.

I have always valued taking time out for myself, sometimes i think i actually do it less now I run a business but my approach now is definitely more intentional. I do all my practices intentionally, even if that's my skincare in the morning. I'll take that 5 minutes to be present, it kind of feels like a mini meditation. Being and feeling totally present whilst applying my hyaluronic acid and avocado eye cream, not thinking about what emails I need to answer, just feeling 100% present in my body.

What was your approach to Self-Love before TSLL and how has it changed?

How do you want your sessions to make people feel?

What’s the best feedback you’ve had from an attendee?

Safe, uplifted, energised, full of love

A beautiful community member once told me about her sister who had passed away, her twin. She said the sound bath was the first time she felt like she could relax and feel closer to her. I've had some amazing feedback but this conversation made me think "yes this is why I do what I do"

What’s been the most exciting experience with TSLL so far?

Performing in front of 1000 people as part of roxie nafousi’ manifest workshop in Dublin. That was a crazy experience. It was almost 2 years ago and it still gives me chills when I think about it.

What’s in store for TSLL?

Ooh, possibly products!! That’s all I'll say for now, I think it’s time we create something to continue your self love practice at home!

Finally, what does Self-Love mean to you?

Self love means self compassion, being kind to myself and listening to my body. Taking time out for myself when I need it and always listening to my GUT!

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Camille is a writer and curator based in London. She specialises in wellness, art and creativity as a means of self-love and expression.

She has worked with a number of wellness brands and art galleries, creating written and social content and helping develop and run events, exhibitions and educational outreach schemes. She is passionate about the power of incorporating self love rituals into your routine to support wellbeing, balance your daily rhythm and find time to let your artistic spirit bloom.