Interview: Nicolas Cortes, Kenkō Wellness
Welcome to our interview series “Inside the Box” where you can meet some of the exceptional Australian creatives and small business brands whose products can be found inside The Meditation Box .. and hear about their unique meditation journey.
I was so inspired when I found Keiko Wellness on Instagram. I was starting to plan the products for our Autumn ‘Letting Go’ Box and was exploring far and wide for something unique to provide an experience of a Burning ceremony, a very common Letting Go ritual. I had no idea how to put that type of ritual into a box! But, I found Keiko Wellness and it was an instant ah-ha moment! Nick was incredibly helpful and supportive, and passionate about his product and bringing it into the Meditation Box.
When I asked if Nick if he meditated, and if he would be happy to share his practice for Inside the Box .. he immediately accepted!
Nicolas Cortes
www.kenkowellness.com.au
Instagram: /kenko.wellness
Nicolas is the proud owner and founder of Kenkō Wellness, a provider of high-quality, hand-selected incense paper, with a modern twist on the centuries-old traditions of scent craftsmanship.
1. Welcome Nick. Could you share a little about your meditation journey with us.
My meditation journey began during a challenging period in my life when I was seeking ways to manage stress and find inner peace. I discovered meditation through a friend who introduced me to basic mindfulness techniques and then I started researching on the internet and following YouTube videos. It was all throughout lockdown when living in Melbourne, so in-person sessions were not available due to the pandemic restrictions. Since then, I've incorporated meditation into my daily routine, practicing both at home and in nature whenever possible.
2. Do you have a particular meditation technique(s) that resonates with you? Has this changed or shifted over time? Why this practice?
I resonate most with mindfulness meditation, particularly focusing on the breath and body sensations. Over time, I've explored various techniques, but mindfulness remains my anchor because of its simplicity and effectiveness in cultivating present-moment awareness. Since I started my business, Kenkō Wellness, my idea was to develop a product that could help people like me to have a quick 5-minute grounding/meditation moment. The business of my daily lifestyle has pushed me to cut short my meditation routine, hence why a short meditation moment with my incense paper has been ideal. Most recently we received a review from someone who suffers from ADHD and can’t keep concentration for very long and found our product of great help for a quick mindful moment.
3. Do you have a regular practice? What does that look like ie. daily, weekly, other? .. AM or PM? .. chair, floor/cushion, standing, moving?
Yes, I have a regular meditation practice that I try to maintain daily. Typically, I meditate in the morning to set a positive tone for the day. I prefer sitting on a cushion on the floor in my living room next to my incense paper and sometimes music.
4. What it is that inspires you to keep meditating and returning to your practice? Because this is a key challenge for almost everyone!
The transformative effects of meditation inspire me to keep returning to my practice. Each session offers an opportunity for self-discovery, emotional healing, and spiritual growth. Knowing that even a few minutes of meditation can make a profound difference in my well-being motivates me to prioritize it in my daily life.
I wish I had started earlier if I knew the impact it would have on my mental wellbeing.
5. Could you share what personal benefits you have observed from your practice?
Through my meditation practice, I've experienced numerous personal benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved focus, and clarity of mind, enhanced emotional resilience, and a deeper sense of inner peace and contentment. Overall, it has helped me shift my mindset into better things and gave me a sense of tranquillity.
6. Do you have a dedicated space for your practice? Or, elements that support your meditation practice .. example, I have my meditation cushion at home (and in the car) so that I can feel ‘home’ wherever I find myself.
Yes and no. My meditation space at home is usually my living room where I can comfortably sit on the floor, light up my incense paper, play music sometimes and feel like it’s my safe space. I always carry with me a tin of incense paper that I can easily pack in my bag without adding more than 100 grams to my luggage if going away.
7. Have you attended a meditation retreat, or undertaken any additional learning opportunities? If so, could you share some of your experience and insights?
Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to do so. I’ve only made part of a small class at The Loft Collaborative yoga studio here in Adelaide where I feel I can meditate and practice yoga. However, I am eyeing out a few wellness retreats to go away later this year.
8. Any favorite inspirational books or resources that others might enjoy?
Some of my favourite inspirational books and resources on meditation include "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle, "Wherever You Go, There You Are" by Jon Kabat-Zinn, and "The Miracle of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh. These books offer profound wisdom and practical guidance for anyone interested in exploring the path of mindfulness and meditation. Although I would highly suggest YouTube videos to anyone who is just starting out, they are free, and they were a great resource for me to kickstart my journey.
9. Any wise words to share with those who are new to meditation or have ‘fallen off the meditation wagon’?
For those who are new to meditation or have fallen off the meditation wagon, I would encourage them to approach their practice with curiosity, compassion, and patience. Start with small, manageable steps, and don't be discouraged by any challenges or setbacks along the way. Remember that meditation is a journey, not a destination, and every moment of practice is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. There isn’t a right or wrong way, simply your way and whatever works best for you and you go through the self-discovery journey.
Finally, 7 Wonderful random things about you!
* I’m an outdoor enthusiast and love hiking in nature.
* I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and exploring different cuisines.
* Music is a big part of my life; Latin music is my go-to in the car.
* I have a passion for travel and exploring new cultures and places.
* I'm a lifelong learner and enjoy taking online courses and attending workshops.
* I was born and raised in Colombia, moved to Australia by myself at the age of 19.
* I find joy in simple pleasures like a good meal or watching the sunset at the beach with my dog.
The Meditation Box
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