Surviving intense trauma and managing severe PTSD, I’ve discovered the beauty in the silver linings of my circumstances and transformed them into my purpose. In my constant search for a safe place amid darkness, I found solace in creativity, crafting things that aided my relentless pursuit of peace of mind. Healing is an ongoing journey, one I'm grateful to tread because it allows me to share my creations and tools with others, in the hope that they too find solace and strength. My journey began in my teenage years when a car accident left me with a serious head injury, prompting profound questions about purpose and recovery. Simple moments, like feeling the breeze on my palm through a car window, became poignant reminders of life's fragility and beauty, fostering a deep appreciation for existence.
April 15th, 2013 marked a day of celebration and tragedy during the Boston Marathon. Amid cheers for my aunt's marathon debut, two explosives shattered the joyous atmosphere. Bleeding on the sidewalk, saved only by the heroic actions of strangers, I faced another battle for survival. The renewed lease on life I had found shattered that day, replaced by a haunting fear that life could slip away unexpectedly. Among the hardest blows was the loss of my mother's legs, a grief that filled days and nights with inconsolable sorrow. Navigating PTSD proved to be a daunting challenge. Triggers could instantly transport me back to the chaos of the marathon. Seeking sustainable coping strategies, I turned to aromatherapy. At home, I kept a lit candle beside me, and on the go, I carried a rollerball of perfume or essential oils tucked safely in my bag. This arsenal of aromas was always ready to combat my intrusive thoughts.
During my healing journey, scent, warm light, and coziness became essential sources of comfort and security. On challenging nights, when faced with fireworks or traumatic flashbacks, I would seek refuge in my bedroom sanctuary. I developed a comforting ritual of brewing tea, lighting candles, and watching soothing movies. One vivid memory stands out: on a Fourth of July evening, as fireworks exploded outside, with tears streaming down my face, I hastily put on noise-canceling headphones, spritzed my favorite perfume, brewed tea, lit a lemon and lavender candle, dimmed the lights, and gathered an armful of fuzzy pillows and blankets to create a cozy nook in my bedroom. Nestling into the pile of plush comforts, I immersed myself in a Hayao Miyazaki film, turning up the volume to drown out the thunderous booms of the vibrant celebration.
The power of scent to evoke memories—both painful and joyful—inspired me to blend creativity with fragrance, leading to the creation of my first candles. Sharing these creations with loved ones became a source of joy and connection. I find profound meaning and purpose in aiding my fellow humans, creatures, and critters because I believe in the inherent goodness of the majority. As a species capable of great good, we should embrace our role as stewards of light, compassion, and empathy. Supporting survivors of terror attacks, individuals with invisible disabilities, and being a supportive presence for those in need has revealed that my true joy lies in illuminating lives. Each of my creations is crafted with the intention of bringing pleasure, relaxation, and supporting practices that nurture inner and outer peace. Whether directly incorporated into personal rituals or enhancing environments where self-nourishment takes place, my work is dedicated to fostering these moments. My deepest fulfillment comes from offering support to others during moments of vulnerability, and through Miluko, sharing these gifts brings me immense happiness and fulfillment.
A vital lesson I’ve learned is the importance of cultivating inner light before extending support to others, because you can’t pour from an empty cup. Through small, consistent practices—like lighting a candle, taking a bath, or losing yourself in a book—I’ve found a comforting hand to pull myself back from the edge. This journey has been a slow build, taking years to acknowledge and even longer to embrace fully. It's been crucial to honor my own pace, allowing time to confront challenges and discover the silver linings, joy, and warmth in life's little moments. I find great joy in supporting others on their healing journeys, tailored to their unique needs and paths.
With warmth and gratitude,
XOXO,
Sydney
bringing light to life