Nana, what was the first spiritual practice you fell in love with and why?Cleansing my home with Sage, Salt, Vinegar, and Palo Santo. Because everything is made of energy, it is very easy for that energy to build up and bring you down.
White sage: I’m using it to dispel negative energy and purify my apartment.
Salt (smiles): You may be surprised, but it has been used in Shintoism (an ancient religion of Japan) to repel evil. I’m just placing small bowls of salt in the center and corners of each room.
Vinegar is something I have learned from my childhood. The entrance of every room will be cleaned with vinegar. The smell might be a bit odd at the beginning, but you get used to it, like the smell of Palo Santo. It keeps the bad energy away. And lastly, Palo Santo. Usually, when I am reading a book in the living room, I'll burn my Palo Santo stick to reduce stress and anxiety.
Mindful rituals you’re most faithful to?
I’ve started with tufting, which is a rug-making technique. I am doing it every now and then, mostly in the evening. It helps me to come down and get lost in the flow state. It also inspires me to mix and match new colours, so I get to see the results immediately, and if I like it, I will use it for my next collection.
The first thing you do after waking up?
Unfortunately, I am checking my emails.
Go-to weeknight recipe?
Kellogs (laughs).
First job?
Hairstylist. I worked my way up to become a fashion designer.
What makes you feel at home?
When I'm surrounded by my kids, we love to snug into our pillows and snuggle under the blanket with our pajamas. Their unconditional love and affection fill our place with love and warmth.
When and where are/were you the happiest?
2010 in London. It was the year when I moved out from my family home to study abroad – a vibrant city full of vibes, which became my home. It was the place where I felt most alive.
Why did you start your fashion brand, Nana Gotti? What’s the story behind it?
When I was younger, I used towels to drape myself in a dress and lift my heels like I would walk in High Heels down the runway. I used to watch "Fashion TV instead of Cartoons and tried to imagine my life in the glitter world. Back then, I didn’t know what a fashion designer was, but I have been creating stuff. So, growing up in a single-parent, lower-middle-class family, becoming a fashion designer was more like a dream that was beyond reachable. We couldn’t afford all these brands that were fashionable and in trend. But I never complained about our situation, instead, I used my creativity and created my own clothes. I wore my mum’s outfits, which were at that time too big, so I would style them differently or tailor-made them on me by myself. It was always nice to bring my vision back to life. This is the story behind it. I’ve pursued my "unreachable" dream because I loved the challenge.
Who is/was your mentor? Or, to put it into other words, who or what inspires you?
My first boss. I was a very difficult "child", known as L’Enfant Terrible. Growing up without a father was very hard for me. So, when I first met my boss, he set the record straight, and that was the moment I realized that I respected him. He sort of became a father figure to me. He taught me about life, manners, and behaviors and introduced me to the upper society. But unfortunately, he passed away in 2014. I'm forever grateful for everything he has taught me.
First celebrity crush(es)?
Keanu Reeves and Jean Reno.
Favorite book ever and why?
"The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak. A poetic exploration of Sufism and its tenants. It is beautifully written and nuanced from different perspectives, which makes this book a real delight to read. The book is largely about the process of spiritual growth. It challenged me to think about how to apply it to my own life. It is a gem, for sure.
Which is your favorite song?
It depends on my mood because there are many songs that I call my favorite. But "Careless Whisper" by George Michael & "Shape of My Heart" by Sting are my timeless favorite.
Things you could buy in a bulk?
Patience. I am a very impatient person. Everything needs to be done immediately, and every result needs to be seen ASAP.
What does a perfect Sunday afternoon look like for you?
Morning Sex (smiles), morning facial routine, comfortable clothes, sun, Ice-Matcha Latte, no iPhone, and a good book.
What would you put on your neon sign?
It was all a dream.
Preferred form of exercise?
I go three times a week for an hour at the gym. My fitness routine usually starts with 10 min of fast walking and/or cardio, and afterward, I challenge myself with 50 minutes of strength exercises.
Favorite dish or meal?
Tom Kha Gai.
Proudest moment?
Seeing my kids being healthy and happy and following my husband's career path.
What is for you personally the meaning of life?
Existence. The pursuit and attainment of worthwhile goals. Mindfulness of the world around.
If you had to pick only one TGC product, what would it be?
The Copal Smudge Bundle to expel negative energy and bad entities.
