We recently had the chance to connect with Emily Gurklis and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Emily, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
If it’s a slower morning: a big hug for my dog, a warm matcha with Manuka honey, journaling, breath work & a walk around the block.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Emily & I run a one-man show over at Paper Moon Wellness, Nashville’s favorite way to unwind. Paper Moon functions on a pop-up basis; hosting both private & community-oriented yoga/Pilates & sound bath experiences. It’s been almost a year since we started bringing a little zen to the 615 & it has been such a beautiful blessing to watch things unfold! I’m honored to be a part of people’s special moments (birthdays, family trips, bachelorettes, etc.) as well as bring some bliss to their more formal ones (think corporate meetings or business luncheons). Picture this: you roll out of bed & onto a royal blue yoga mat… move through a gentle yet energizing movement sequence, cultivate expansive breath, inhale some thoughtful essential oils… & finish up with a soothing sound bath & guide meditation. That’s exactly what you can expect during a Paper Moon session! Good vibes guaranteed.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
The first thing that comes to mind is the concept of passivity. I was dealt a tougher hand as a kid & often lacked a sense of control or autonomy. Adulthood allowed me to take full ownership of my life, which I found so freeing! Paper Moon is a direct extension of that. I previously worked as a reading specialist in public education & decided to take work into my own hands by becoming self-employed. Every act of courage has brought me closer to living the life I envisioned for so long.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes- several! If I’m being honest.. even up to a few months ago. Going from a salaried government job to being a small business owner is certainly an adjustment. Adapting to the ups & downs income wise has taken time but I’ve learned to trust & even enjoy the ever-changing pace.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Yoga is for everyone. Yoga is for the overworked business man with heavy shoulders hunched over a desk. Yoga is for the tired mom who spends the day carrying babies in the crook of her hip. Yoga is for the broke college student, the stiff retiree, the wiggly kindergartner. It is a lifelong practice that grows and fluctuates with the changing seasons of our bodies. Movement is medicine- for the physical entity, for the spirit, for the mind.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
My hope is that I made each person I met feel seen & welcomed where they are, as they are. Both on & off the mat!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://papermoonwellness.co
- Instagram: @papermoonwellnessco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566715807245
