8 Years of Evolution With Aruma…
I am not sure what triggered the reflection, but whatever it was, I am glad I sat down and let it all wash over me. Maybe it was the fact that my children are growing and needing me in different ways? Maybe it’s the per-menopausal waves causing a stir? Either way, my mind quickly alerted me to the fact that 8 years ago this September, was the beginning of Aruma.
I always wanted to lead my own business. I always had business ideas. I always wanted to create something. But my path was never direct, and I see now why I had to do all of the other things to be able to do what I do now. I know that when I started Aruma (which actually began under another name on September 15, 2016) my intention was to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for everyone to access counselling and well-being services. I desperately wanted to take the stigma out of counselling. I wanted to make it normal, much like going to the dentist or the chiropractor. I wanted the starchy furniture, fluorescent lights, and clinic-like setting to be a thing of the past. I wanted the space in which you do your most vulnerable work, where you share your darkest shadows, to be cozy, warm, and welcoming. In truth, this has not changed, it is still my intention today.
To provide space for you to heal trauma, cultivate change, and foster connection.
The first year was full of lessons, realities, and brave choices. By September 8, 2017 Aruma officially became Aruma, and we never looked back.
For me, businesses are alive, just as you and I breathe, cry, and evolve. They move through stages and phases. You have to feed them, love them, and support them during their growing pains, and when you get really still and really quiet you can hear the direction they want to go in.
Along the way I learned how important community was so we created a market and a festival. I learned how the mind and body simply cannot be treated separately, so we provided movement classes, massage, and chiropractic services. I learned that we were all craving spiritual connection, so we offered yoga and reiki. I learned that water is one of life’s greatest healers, so we paddled the Clyde River.
It was beautiful. But even with our fierce attempts to stay present and grounded, the world still had us hustling.
Then Covid. I don’t really need to go into too much depth with this. We were all there. Things changed, and instead of fighting it, we embraced it and changed with it. We let Aruma lead the way, and we followed. I often still hear “I miss the old Aruma,” but I don’t really view it like that. For me, there has only ever been one Aruma, and she has simply shifted with the times.
Over the last 8 years, Aruma has been led by some of the most intelligent and creative women I have had the pleasure of knowing. She has housed some of the most gifted practitioners, and treated some of the bravest individuals., and I have learned something from every interaction I’ve had. I am truly grateful for the business partners that I have led with along the way. Thank you for leaving your beautiful imprint. You all know who you are.
Anything written about Aruma, simply wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Bobbi McDougall. Bobbi has worn more hats under the Aruma umbrella than anyone to date. We didn’t start out as business partners, however the Universe quickly made that a reality, and when it was time to take space and figure out who we were after a national pandemic, we simply held space for one another to do that. But, as Aruma would have it, Bobbi made her way back, and here we are.
Being called to lead a business like this one is not for the faint of heart, it asks a lot of you, and as healthy as your boundaries might be you are never fully separate from it. Bobbi has witnessed all of me during the last 8 years (personally, professionally, spiritually). We may not be business partners in the legal senses anymore, but her DNA is infused into every fibre of Aruma.
I am grateful that Aruma, in her own way, continues to choose me to see the vision through. It humbles me every day to lead a business that supports others in their highest good and healing. I am grateful to every individual who has trusted Aruma with their wellness, it continues to be an absolute privilege to serve others.
What I know for sure is that a lot happens in 8 years. Really wonderful things, heartbreaking things, and unforgettable things. My intuition tells me that Aruma’s journey is far from over, in fact I believe that she is more grounded and wiser now than she’s ever been. Perhaps that comes with age? I still wake up every day in complete gratitude to lead this business, work alongside the Aruma team, and serve others.
My belief in the importance of counselling, unpacking your story, and healing your emotional history holds as true today as ever. Healing prevents disease. Healing creates connection. Healing is the bravest work you will ever do.
I am never totally sure what the next 8 years will bring, but I do know that we are focused on continuing to provide individual healing services through our Registered Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists, and Certified Life Coaches to children, youth, individuals, and families. More recently my passion for healing and evolving in the presence of others has been met through our newest service, Aruma Talks. Essential and instrumental conversations designed to create change and foster connection. I believe that to stay healthy in mind and body, we must keep learning, and these Talks offer exactly that. I hope you consider joining one.
If we have or are currently serving you, thank you for choosing Aruma. If we haven’t, I hope we have the honor of doing so in the future.
Much love + gratitude,
Haley