Gina's journey in the world of food and mindfulness is a testament to her passion for nurturing both the body and mind. Beginning the journey in 2015, at the Ballymaloe Cookery School in Co Cork, Ireland, Gina was introduced to the importance of quality and sustainability in food. This prestigious institution, located on a 100-acre organic farm, provided her with a deep understanding of the farm-to-fork philosophy, strengthening her commitment to sharing this knowledge with others.
In 2016 career path took her to the UK, where she enhanced her culinary skills and gained valuable experience. Her internship at Bee’s Bakery allowed her to contribute to a bespoke biscuit brand that catered to luxury department stores and involved in recipe testing for cookery books. During her time in the UK, she gained vast experience across various kitchen roles, always with the ultimate aim of teaching others about the joy of cooking. Her dream came to life in 2019 with the launch of her own cookery classes at Create98 in Leigh-on-Sea, focusing on wellness through food with courses like “Eat well, feel well,” and bread baking workshops.
However, Gina's holistic approach to wellness led her to recognise the importance of mental and emotional health alongside physical nourishment. This revelation prompted her to pursue a qualification as a mindfulness coach upon her return to Ireland in 2021. With the establishment of Nourish Wellness Kitchen, Gina aims to offer a sanctuary that promotes the well-being of the mind, body, and soul through a combination of food, mindfulness, and creativity. Her journey is a beautiful blend of culinary art and mental wellness, reflecting a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.
Photos by Anna Lukala
Our Mission
Connecting people back to the food on their plate
Embracing a mindful approach to eating encourages us to appreciate the sensory experiences of our meals, from the textures and flavours to the aromas and colours that food offers. This practice can transform eating from a mundane, automatic task into a deliberate and enriching experience, helping us to find the joy in the preparation and consumption of meals again.
Create community
Shared meals at the kitchen table, become a platform for building connection to those around us, encouraging conversation, storytelling and learning, nurturing a sense of belonging and community.
Create a slow & mindful space
Nourishing and nurturing the body and mind, along with creating a slow and mindful space, is pivotal. In a world that often prioritizes speed and efficiency over well-being, advocating for a slower, more mindful approach to food and eating can be revolutionary. By slowing down and being more conscious of our eating habits, we not only enhance our physical health but also our mental and emotional well-being, fostering a deeper connection to the food we consume, the people we share it with and it’s source.