This Wellness Founder Is Changing The Mental Health Game

Theresa Gonzalez
Jul 23, 2021
Brain Gardening

Welcome to Selfmade Stories! We're partnering with Office Depotto spotlight emerging entrepreneurs from our virtual business course Selfmade. Alum Alina Bachmann, founder of Brain Gardening, an online store and mindset-coaching service, talks with us about shifting your mindset in business to reach success.

What motivated you to start Brain Gardening? What problem were you trying to solve?

My personal health journey inspired me to create Brain Gardening during the pandemic because I saw so many people were struggling to cope and access to mental health care was limited.

My 2020 happened in 2018, only I was in quarantine due to chronic illness stemming from post traumatic-stress while the world around me went on. The skills I teach now are the skills that helped me overcome and turn my life around.

Have you always been passionate about mental health and wellness?

Actually, no. My professional background is in art and graphic design. Creativity has been a huge way for me to cope with challenges in life. It was a great buffer during adverse childhood experiences, and I knew at an early age that I wanted to continue so I made a career out of it. However, my health issues eventually eclipsed my ability to tap into that part of myself in adulthood.

In 2018, I found myself at a breaking point where I needed to really focus on my health and work through past traumas in a way that allowed me to release myself from them rather than run from them. At that point, I felt like I lost creativity and my identity as an artist was veiled by the health issues I was facing. I only became passionate about mental health and wellness when I started to recognize the importance of it and prioritize my own. Everything shifted for me as a result of that inward focus. I never want anyone to have to reach the point that I did to make that change. I believe everyone deserves access to resilience tools and that's what inspired me to create Brain Gardening as a resource.



How has the pandemic changed your business?

The pandemic gave me the push to pivot and start this business. I've been a graphic and informational designer for decades. I realize other people's concepts and dreams, translating data and cryptic text into visually captivating and engaging materials. While I find it thrilling to do so and enjoy the process, rarely have I pursued my own concepts and dreams with that same drive. I knew I had much more of a voice and knowledge to share.

The idea for Brain Gardening has been something that I've kind of been holding on to waiting for the right time. Every time I would get projects for others, that dream would be sidelined. When the pandemic hit, I knew I couldn't wait longer. The knowledge was needed now. I ended up voluntarily reducing my workload as a graphic designer for the Florida Institute for Child Welfare in the middle of the pandemic, where many people were struggling to keep a job. I decided to take a step into the unknown because I felt a strong pull that I needed to. I wanted to help people more directly with the resilience tools that personally changed my life.



What challenges have you faced so far as a business owner?

Mindset! It has tested me to my core. Walking into uncertainty is uncomfortable — the brain naturally wants to keep you safe through what is more familiar. When you start anything new, it can take time and mistakes before you establish your "flow" and get more comfortable. When you're a business owner, there are so many things to think about and consider. It can definitely be overwhelming! If you're mentally not in a place to take on those challenges, it can be easy to want to give up. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20 percent of small businesses fail within the first year in the U.S. I knew I didn't want to be another statistic so I knew I had to support myself through that discomfort.

What strategies helped you overcome them?

I joined Selfmade right after scaling down my workload at my day job and deciding I wanted to create Brain Gardening. I didn't want to walk blindly or buffer in a place where I was googling everything trying to teach myself without knowing what I needed to know. I was part of the Fall 2020 cohort where I really got clear on my idea and learned invaluable information from leaders. The community aspect of the program was especially helpful because I was in a container with women also chasing their dreams, many also feeling the discomfort and uncertainty of that process, and it made me know I wasn't alone.



How have you been able to market your brand and get the word out so far?

I launched products and services this spring and surpassed my public outreach goals. The response exceeded the spaces available for private coaching, so I am launching an evergreen course this summer. I've also been doing interviews on podcasts, like Our Power Is Within. I've been really humbled by the interest and feedback I've received on Brain Gardening's social media accounts. It is a pretty priceless feeling to hear when the content you create has truly helped someone. That's been the best part for me.

What was your most valuable takeaway from Selfmade?

Selfmade was so valuable and information-rich, I went through the program twice! I think the biggest thing I got from it was support. The coaches and guest speakers are incredible — you're not just getting the sugar-coated version of their business story. Real issues and real lessons are at the forefront of the experience, so you get a real look at what it takes and tips that can help along the way. Brit is an absolutely amazing, nurturing, and encouraging person. Her voice and the voices of the coaches are what I hear in my mind during the tough moments. To have that kind of voice louder than the inner critic is so powerful and perhaps the most valuable takeaway I've gotten from Selfmade.



What does success look like for you?

Success is purpose being fulfilled. I think that's what it ultimately comes down to for me at the core level. It's not about bells and whistles or material things to define success for me, because I can have all those things and still not be satisfied. Success is that feeling of wholeness — of fulfillment. Success for me is carrying out the mission and vision of my business and seeing the results lived out by my clients.

How do you stay motivated? Who inspires you?

Self-care is absolutely necessary and what sustains me and my ability to be a business owner. I set aside time to do yoga, dance, and spend time outdoors. It gets scheduled into my calendar as non-negotiable me-time so that I can refill my cup. I think it's easy to get caught in cycles of doing that we overlook the need for resting and being. So much creativity can flow in those still moments that are invaluable. I'm inspired by other leaders who have similar practices where they are mindful and intentional. Naomi Powell, a coach I met in the Fall 2020 cohort of Selfmade, has been a mentor for me in this. I highly recommend her podcast The Lifestyle Edit. It's pure gold.



What's one piece of advice you would give to women looking to launch a business?

Connect to your why and refer back to it time and time again. Especially in the challenging moments where it may feel overwhelming to keep going. That "why" is powerful motivation and if you're not thrilled or passionate about that why, that might be a helpful way to know if it's time to shift gears into something that will be more nourishing for you and not lead to burnout.

What's next for Brain Gardening?

I have a series of online courses with on-demand videos coming out soon! I'm combining neuroscience with somatics and the healing arts to create a science-backed and practical way to manage anxiety, depression, and stress-related illness. I am also developing standalone workbooks that will be available on Amazon.

Thanks Alina! You can follow Brain Gardening on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Mindset has so much to do with enjoying the journey of entrepreneurship. Let Office Depot OfficeMax help you stay organized & save time with a suite of business services to help you accomplish more - from signs, posters & banners to get your business noticed to marketing materials to help bring your brand vision to life. With Office Depot OfficeMax by your side, we know you can be your best.


Head to Office Depot's Selfmade page to check out even more amazing business resources (and discounts!) to help you accomplish more on your entrepreneurial journey. These offers are available for a limited time only, so be sure to take advantage of all this goodness while supplies last. Want to join the next Selfmade cohort? Check out all of the scholarship details right here.

10 Bright Easter Nail Ideas To Save To Your Vision Board Right Now

It's time to trade your leopard print and moody nails for pretty colors. Now that you're used to Daylight Savings Time, we know you're wearing the cutest spring dresses and spending time in the sun with your friends. What better way to celebrate this than by wearing the prettiest nail designs the season's ever seen?

If you're clueless about what to choose from, we're making things easier by sharing what we've bookmarked!

Scroll to find your the prettiest Easter nail ideas that'll set the tone for the best spring ever!

1. Nail Reformation Fleur De Magnolia 

Nail Reformation

Are you in your dainty girl era? Great, we are too! It's the perfect excuse to wear these pretty press-on nails from Nail Reformation! They feature the familiar French manicure design, but with pastel colors, florals, and cute pearls on each finger.

2. Colorful Arts & Crafts Nails

Sarah Torres/Dupe Photos

Remember when you used to draw abstract doodles in class? Take this as a sign to use your mini drawings as inspo for the easter nails you're thinking about wearing. They'll stand out no matter what you're wearing and may garner a few compliments when you're making your weekly Trader Joe's run!

3. BTArtbox Soft Gel French Press On Nails 

Amazon

This easter nail idea is debunking the myth that French manicures are boring. They're everything but because you can have so much with different designs. Unlike our first pretty pastel pick, these nails feature slanted and complementary colors that give it a modernized look.

4. Artsy Abstract Nails 

Jackie Dewar/Dupe Photos

Abstract nails continue to reign supreme for one reason: they're unforgettable and bring a smile to our face. This idea is perfect if spring makes you want to do as many quirky things as possible. Frolicking in a field of tulips for absolutely no zero reason at all? Make sure these nails graze as many of them as they can!

5. Juicy Fruit Nails 

Alexis Charles/Dupe Photos

Do you get anxiety every time your nail tech asks you to pick a color during your appointment? Pick five bright shades that fit many of your moods. She might not be happy, but at least your nails will look pretty.

6. Matcha Green Nails 

Lara Hayley/Dupe Photos

Are you obsessed with making matcha drinks like we are? Let your love for the green drink show with these pretty nails. They'll look great against your glass cup, making your roommates envious that they didn't consider this shade.

P.S. We won't judge you if you keep reaching for this nail idea off and on during spring.

7. Nail Reformation Garden Of Pearls Press On Nails 

Nail Reformation

Keep your love for green going, but go a few shades lighter with these pastel press-on nails. They're as dainty as Nail Reformation's Fleur De Magnolia nails, but they blend several designs together. From the class French manicure to metallic accents, you'll love watching the sun make them shimmer.

8. WICKED X KISS There's Joy

KISS

If you been watching Wicked all week, you'll love this collab between the movie and KISS. They feature the prettiest floral designs with cute little bees pollinating them. While we can't promise they'll make you get over your fear of the black and yellow cuties, we can all agree you won't be able to stop looking at your hands.

9. Olive & June Bandana Chrome Press On Nails

Olive & June

Instead of checkered print nails, take a walk on the wild side with Olive & June's bandana chrome nails. They're not as "girly" as our other easter nail idea picks, but you'll definitely have a great time wearing them the more you spend time in the sun.

10. Short And Sweet French Manicure 

Brit + Co Courtesy of Bellacures

Skip the acrylic and press-on nails in favor of your own with this short and sweet French manicure. They're a subtle nod to the prettiest season of them all that won't overpower your outfits or cause too much attention at work.

Follow us on Pinterest for more nail art ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Um, Anne Hathaway's "Wild" First 'Verity' Footage Is "Mind-Bending"

I've been on the edge of my seat for Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson's Verity (even before I saw It Ends With Us), and after hearing about the first look that aired at CinemaCon this week, the internet is even more locked in on the “gothic, psychosexual thriller” (as the film's described by director Mike Showalter) than they've ever been.

Here's what the Verity cast, including Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett, had to say about the new movie from Colleen Hoover.

What is Verity about?

Any Colleen Hoover fan knows the Verity movie revolves around Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson), who gets hired by Jeremy Crawford (Josh Hartnett) to finish his wife's novels. Renowned author Verity Crawford (Anne Hathaway) is no longer able to write after a tragic accident, but what begins as an exciting project takes a turn for the horrifying when Lowen discovers Verity is hiding a terrible secret.

Anne Hathaway promises 'Verity' is worth "waiting for."

At Amazon MGM's CinemaCon presentation, the Verity cast, Colleen Hoover, and Mike Showalter offered attendees a new look at the movie via video message.

“My character Verity Crawford is an accomplished author with a tragic past,” Anne said, while Dakota joked, “Or is she?”

Josh added, “My character, Jeremy Crawford, is a devoted husband who’s committed to protecting his wife’s legacy.”

“Or is he?” Dakota said again.

“One thing we can say for sure is that seeing Verity in theaters will give fans the shared experience they’ve been waiting for," Anne promised.

And everyone's losing it over the "wild" footage from CinemaCon!

The presentation also included the first trailer for the movie, which showed Verity and Jeremy meeting at a bar — which explains those iconic set leaks of Anne Hathaway and Josh Hartnettrunning through the streets of New York! And when Jeremy's introduced to Lowen and brings her to their giant home, he tells her "she's the only writer who can do this"...and then they begin their own illicit affair. And as they have a hot make out sesh on the couch, Lowen realizes she's kissing Verity and not Jeremy. Wow.

"Just saw the first footage for VERITY starring Josh Hartnett, Anne Hathaway, and Dakota Johnson," @JoeySpielberg says on X. It looks like it’s gonna be good but I honestly couldn’t tell you the plot is but it’s definitely gonna be wild. Seems like a movie you just don’t know what happens next."

"The footage showcases a sexy, mind-bending thriller," @howatdk agrees.

We're sure to see many more shocks and surprises when Verity hits theaters May 15, 2026.

Check out the 10 Most-Anticipated Book-To-Film Adaptations We Can't Wait To See In 2025.

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6 Salon Habits That Are Secretly Annoying Your Hairdresser

Beauty appointments are at the top of my self-care list, but you there's one question that's always sat in the back of my mind. Do I have bad habits that are annoying to my hairdresser or am I a "good" client? This could stem from being listening to retail horror storiesand fighting the urge to gasp in horror at customers' behavior.

No matter what it is, it's apparent hairdressers aren't a fan of everything you and I may do before, during, and after our appointments. Out of curiosity, I asked the following hairstylists about their biggest pet peeves:

Learn which bad habits you should stop doing if you want to stay in your hairdresser's good graces!

1. Coming To Your Appointment After Being At The Gym

Madison Kinsley/Dupe Photos

I'm thoroughly surprised that people do this because I know how sweaty I get after a workout. But Jorge's had clients who've done this and it's not a good look, according to her. "Yes your service begins with a wash, but seriously," she asks. I don't think you need a reminder, but you might want to take a shower after your gym or pilates session out of courtesy for your hairdresser!

2. Arriving Late To Your Appointment 

Most hairdressers have have a grace period for clients because they understand things happen, but that's not your cue to take advantage of their kindness. For Durante, "being late is the primary issue." Want to know why? He says it's because this "backs up all the appointments and creates a domino effect of issues that can often be hard to catch up on."

3. Acting Like An Armchair Stylist 

cottonbro studio/Pexels

Hair appointments should be collaborative, yes, but not to the point where your hairdresser feels like you're trying to do their job for them. Jorge says, "The most nerve-wrecking thing a client can do while they are in the chair is constantly second guess what the stylist is doing or changing their minds about their service. Clients need to trust their stylist and not back seat drive every snip."

If you're guilty of doing this, try to be mindful of how this makes your hairdresser feels. They're providing a service, but they're still human.

Jorge also says, "Sometimes, I just want to give the client the scissors and let them cut their own hair. J/K.."

Rene Terp/Pexels

It's something Durante doesn't care for either. "We always encourage our clients to give as many details as possible with how they want their hair to be cut, colored, and/or styles, but directing the service and telling the hairstylist exactly how to do their hair in step-by-step format is unnecessary when seeing a professional," he states.

Should you be afraid to talk to your hairdresser? Not at all, but it's unhelpful if you think you're more equipped to do your hair while sitting in their chair. "We appreciate a client's direction as it is their look, but critiquing and instructing us on how to reach the end goal is beyond frustrating. Quite frankly, we have spent years handling requests and know exactly how to achieve your desired look based on the tools we've gathered throughout the years," Durante adds.

5. Waiting To Share Your Dissatisfaction

Antoni Shkraba/Pexels

Another annoying behavior stems from something we've all done at least once. Durante says, "When completing a cut or color based on an inspiration photo, the client says they "wanted to go a different direction" - but only tells us once the service is completed."

At this stage in life, I realize the importance of communicating with my hairdresser throughout my appointment. People can't read minds so it's something to think about if you typically wait until your service is over to complain.

6. Covering Your Hair Once It's Been Styled

Melissa Romee/Dupe Photos

According to Jorge, it's annoying when "after receiving a hair cut and styling, the client wears a hat or covers their hair." I'm always excited after a hair appointment because it's a chance to enjoy and show off my new refreshed look, but I guess some people feel the need to "hide" their style.

Her other pet peeves? "Washing their hair with a cheap, sulfate shampoo that ruins their color. Going for a swim after a keratin treatment only to dry their hair afterwards and realize a giant frizz bomb where perfectly straight hair once was."

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Trader Joe’s Shoppers Say This New $9 Night Cream Easily Rivals Luxury Brands

A new Trader Joe’s skincare find just hit shelves, and beauty fans are already reeling about its similarities to more luxury products! The night cream features a handful of ingredients that are commonly found in pricier skincare options, but this TJ’s pick costs a fraction of its suspected competitors.

As a Versed Sweet Relief overnight cream loyalist (I use it every single day without fail), I must say I'm thoroughly convinced to try this new Trader Joe’s item after reading shoppers’ reactions!

Scroll on to discover the all-new Trader Joe’s skincare product worth adding to your routine!

Reddit

Trader Joe’s Night Cream is a brand-new addition to their collection of skincare goodies. In fact, it’s so new that it’s not listed on their website quite yet. Despite its newcomer status, tons of shoppers are already buzzing about the Trader Joe’s Night Cream.

Reddit

One TJ’s fan on Reddit surfaced the new find on the r/TraderJoe’s subreddit, and skincare lovers were super quick to chime in.

Per the post, the Trader Joe’s Night Cream is formulated with Irish sea moss extract, a fermented mushroom complex, ceramides, and sodium hyaluronate. It’s also unscented, which can be super beneficial for sensitive skin in need of moisture.

The TJ’s fan that found the night cream on shelves reported that it is “very thick but dry at the same time. I really had to work it into the skin,” they said. “Very odd consistency.”

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Another shopper that tried the Trader Joe’s Night Cream weighed in on their experience:

“Using it sparingly since I’m quite pregnant and don’t want to mess with sensitive skin but so far it’s quite nice!” they said. “Thick but not greasy in the slightest. I still feel it on my skin when I rinse my face in the AM which means it held up overnight in my dry altitude climate.”

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Several more users compared this new TJ’s formula to other products on the market, mentioning Asian beauty and even retinol for its anti-aging benefits.

“It’s interesting to see all the fermented ingredients in this!” one person commented. “I know that they have been very popular in Asian skincare for years, but I don’t see it that often in the States. I’m excited to try this! Thanks for sharing, I’m going to be on the lookout now.”

“Based on the ingredients list, I suspect this might be a Korean product,” another TJ’s shopper agreed.

“Irish Sea Moss is considered an excellent retinol alternative so if it agrees with one’s skin, not a bad option for those who can’t tolerate or don’t want harsh actives,” one more skincare fan noted.

MARA Beauty

One Redditor confirmed that a single 2-ounce jar of the Trader Joe’s Night Cream cost just $9. Similar moisturizers that leverage sea moss in their formulas (like Wildling’s Moonbounce 2% Bioretinol Irish Sea Moss Plumping Moisturizer and MARA's SeaDream Algae Crème) average around $73, which is insane.

KoolShooters / PEXELS

This TJ’s find could be a great way to try out the sea moss skincare wave without shelling out a fortune! Per episode 87 of The Inside Trader Joe's Podcast, it’s certifiably “high-quality” and “incredibly functional.”

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing Trader Joe's products!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Juno Temple Will Star In Apple TV's New Comedy 'The Husbands'

Jenna Bush Hager chose Holly Gramazio's The Husbands as her book club's April pick in 2024 and it became an instant bestseller. Evidently, Apple TV took notice and decided it would be an excellent idea to adapt it into a new drama series! We're fond of adaptations here, so we're elated to this fresh storyline come to life. But, guess what else we're intrigued about?

The Husbands series has already found it's lead star in Ted Lasso and Fargo actress Juno Temple! Her characters are fan favorites, so we're sure she's going to do her lead role in this series justice.

Scroll to learn more exhilarating news about The Husbands series!

What is 'The Husbands' about?

Amazon

The Husbands chronicles one woman's journey as she explores an ever-changing life with different men she's never met before. But this isn't a tale of reckless one-night stands. On the contrary, Lauren will be as confused as readers and viewers because she's not sure what's happening.

It all begins with her return to her home and the realization that a man who's strangely familiar with her is calling himself her husband. Unbeknownst to her, she's been married to Michael for a while despite not knowing who he is. What's even more ironic is that her friends think something's wrong with her because they know who her husband is.

In the midst of trying to decipher this phenomenon, Lauren's shocked when Michael disappears into the attic and a new man returns in his place. As she watches her surroundings change to accommodate life with him, Lauren slowly realizes her attic has created a portal that allows her to live out different fantasies with a revolving door of men. But, she'll have to ask herself what she really wants and if she's willing to hang on to one reality instead of wishing for more.

Has more cast information been released?

Diana Patient

Holly Gramazio, Author of The Husbands

We know Juno Temple will star in The Husbands, but there haven't been more cast announcements just yet (via Variety). There's so many options for the many spouses she could have which makes us want to dream about our own casting wishlist.

Who's the executive producers of the series?

Diana Patient

Holly Gramazio, Author Of The Husbands

According to Apple TV+, writer Miriam Battye (Succession) will be executive producing The Husbands with Craig Gillespie (I, Tonya), and Annie Marter of Fortunate Jack Productions (The Devil All The Time), author Holly Gramazio and A24.

We love when authors are allowed to give their input in TV or film adaptations!

When will 'The Husbands' premiere on Apple TV? 

Production hasn't started on The Husbands TV series yet, but we'll share more information once it's available!

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