Psyche (saiki – noun) “the human soul, mind or spirit”
Lauren Raby is the founder of Saiki – creating enriching content and community experiences to encourage self discovery, connection and our relationship with the environment. They work with a growing dynamic and diverse network of thought leaders, change-makers, expert practitioners, artists, activists, philosophers and psychologists.
Tell us a little bit more about how you came to found Saiki
Saiki was originally created from my own exploration of wellbeing. I know how important meditation and sound baths have been to me at several stages in my life, so it was important for me to create a platform to share similar kinds of holistic practices in the hope it would reach someone else who needed it. It’s naturally evolved over the last couple of years to becoming an exploration of wellbeing for ourselves, our community and the Earth.
My background is in events so over time I’ve aligned my passion with my work by offering programming and curation to brands that are looking to integrate experiences that promote wellness and sustainability. Another string to my bow is sound healing. Which makes sense since it was sound baths that offered me so much relief when I was struggling with anxiety all those years ago! It’s hugely rewarding, I love holding space for people. With events, you’re often behind the scenes but with sound healing, you can really connect. Seeing everyone’s blissed-out faces after a sound bath is the best feeling.
Are you a solopreneur (working laterally with other companies), or do you work with a co-founder and employees, and how does this affect your approach to business?
I work laterally with other companies to create. I’m happy to work by myself most of the time. It suits my independent spirit! Although not having a team comes with its challenges which makes it even more special and inspiring to collaborate with like-minded, supportive and passionate people. I’m a firm believer in women supporting women and collaboration over competition.
What do you love most about being a creative serial entrepreneur and event planner?
The freedom and excitement of building something you believe in. Creating space for transformation and positive impact. I think experiences are what life is all about so creating them for others is really fulfilling for me.
What does spirituality mean to you?
Connection. Knowing that I am part of the whole. Knowing that I am supported by a force greater than me is a key part of my wellbeing. When I was emotionally and mentally at a low point, I was reminded of spiritual connection and it gave me the strength to rebuild myself. Now it’s a consistent and integral part of my life.
What difficulties have you faced and how did you get around them?
As I tend to work by myself, I take a lot on when actually it’s better to delegate. That’s been a long process for me! Letting go is hard but it has definitely been for the best. This year I’ve worked with a new accountant and a designer which has been a game-changer. Working with people who are amazing at their job frees up time to spend on other things.
What’s the smallest change that’s given the biggest return?
Automation. I love using Later for automatic Instagram posting because it means I spend less time on social media. The headspace is worth it.
What motivates you?
I’m motivated by the possibility of transformation. This feeds into Saiki, sound healing and the work I do for A Plate for London, a not-for-profit organisation that helps feed Londoners in need. I believe in the natural evolution of taking wellbeing beyond yourself to contribute to your community and the Earth because we’re all interconnected.
What’s been your biggest achievement in life thus far?
Pulling myself out of some shitty life situations and powering on to greater things. It’s funny, they say that the older you get the more you resonate with your rising sign. I’m a Taurus sun but my rising is Capricorn and my goodness does that come out when I need it! That little mountain goat will get to the top of the mountain come hell or high water.
And biggest lesson?
That life can change at the drop of a hat. But trust the changes because better things are coming. It always makes sense in the end even if it’s not clear to you at the time.
What’s more important to you – process or outcome?
Both! The process is important because it’s where you spend your daily energy but I can’t help but feel like the outcome is important too. You’ll either succeed or learn a valuable lesson.
Do you have a mentor or people you ask for advice?
I have people that I go to for advice. I think everyone needs a sounding board. My partner is usually my go-to, we do that for each other but I’d love a mentor. I still haven’t found the right ‘one’. I’d love to find an inspiring older woman who is in the same field. That being said, I’ve had lots of teachers to learn from along the way that I’m grateful for.
If you weren’t running your business, what would you be doing?
I would be either travelling or studying. I love learning new things. I don’t subscribe to the concept of boredom. There are so many things in this world to discover!
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
I’m strong-willed. Not a lot will stop me if I’ve set my heart on something. My weakness is caring too much and overthinking, I tend to give myself a hard time so I’ve learnt to catch myself and practice letting go.
How has what you do changed you as a person?
It’s helped me believe in trusting a process that isn’t necessarily known to you. I now know you need to follow your intuition, follow your joy – it’s the way to happiness.
If time and money were no object – what would be on your to do / to see list?
I’d go to India. My grandad was from India and I’d love to see where he grew up. I felt such a connection when I went to Burma, my Grandmother’s motherland. Feeling somehow connected to a place you’ve never been before is magical. I’d love to see if India will hold the same treasure for me. It’s heartbreaking to see both Burma and India going through such a terrible time. I’ll be fundraising at my upcoming sound baths so I can try and support in some small way.
