The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Just like everyone, life has naturally presented me with challenges and lessons to learn along the way. One that stands out is becoming a mother in the UK, far from my family, friends, and the circle of women who would have traditionally supported me through the journey of pregnancy and motherhood. After having my baby, I felt isolated, alone, and deeply affected by a birth experience that was more complex than I had anticipated.
In those challenging times, my “village” came in the form of local baby groups-breastfeeding support, baby music, messy play, baby massage courses, and more. I attended every group I could find. After giving birth to my first child, I found myself with shattered confidence, intense hormonal changes, and a sense of losing my identity. But forcing myself to attend these groups, no matter how difficult, was what saved me.
Thanks to the practitioners who led those groups, I found support, friendship, and a way to embrace my new identity as a mother. This is why (so many years later) I created Groovy Bumblebees, an inclusive, live music-making class for parents, carers, babies, and toddlers. Many years ago, baby music groups were my lifeline, and now I want to offer that same support to other parents and carers.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
I was always a clinician with almost no experience running my own business. One of the pros of owning a business is that it’s never boring-you’re always switched on, with new creative ideas coming up every day! It’s amazing how many incredible people I’ve met while running my practice. I began experimenting more, and everything became a creative opportunity. I had no idea my clinical thinking would evolve the way it has since starting my practice. I find myself doing things I wouldn’t have dared to imagine just a few years ago.
However, I also had to confront certain aspects of my personality and habitual thinking that used to limit me from taking action and spreading my wings. Along with the excitement, creativity, and new connections come sleepless nights, long hours, detailed planning, and plenty of DIY. Running a business is a big investment, a risk, and a responsibility, but it has made my life so much richer.
Hopes and dreams: What next? hope and dreams:
My ultimate dream for UMAI Music Therapy & Wellbeing is to evolve into a therapeutic and wellbeing hub, with a strong collaborative network involving other businesses and organisations. I hope our services continue to provide significant benefits to all who use them. I also envision developing effective practices that reach a wide range of populations, while successfully promoting the healing power of music, sound, and art for everyone.
Visit the UMAI Music Therapy & Wellbeing website to find out more, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
