Curandera Remedies
Curandera Remedies is an indie wellness brand created by Josie Castaneda, certified health coach and yoga therapist. Offering artisanal apothecary remedies for individuals to reconnect to the sacred, natural world and bring harmony into their lives.
Josie is a Mexican-Cuban yogini born into a family rooted in the healing arts of curan-dería, shape shifting and clairvoyance. She continues her family customs and herbalism studies with Julia Graves and Ursula Bach. Josie has completed Meditation studies with the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Center and the School of Practical Philosophy since 2001. Known to teach intangible subjects in a clear and practical manner, Josie is a giving, nurturing teacher able to personalize subjects to the individual.
So lets dive in and get to know Josie a little better. But first, why I am inspired by Josie? I am often inspired by other by the things they dont tell you about. I recently re-met Josie at a market, I hadnt seen her in years. She caught me up on what she’s been working on from seeing her booth I could see some new products and she mentioned she was starting to host trips to India and makers can see in person where their products are really coming from. The real magic was what I saw from her instagram posts, she was more than her already amazing product like oils, hand dyed clothing, elixirs - over Instagram I saw her guided trips to India, the care and research she puts into her ingredients, shes truly caring, and dives deep into women’s health and holistic healing. The list of her abilities is jaw dropping. Herbal Consultations, Platicas, Toltec Bodywork, Reiki, Flower & Crystal Essence Therapy, Private Yoga & Meditation Instruction
First, tell us about your business, what do you do and how do you make it special?
CR is a lifestyle business that offer folk remedies in these modern times and healing services. The remedies are a blend of what has been passed down by ancestors and others I develop myself through my herbalism knowledge. The business is unique in that I blend Mexican, Indian, and European Materia Medicas for the formulations. And all products receive an energetic alignment with sound healing.
What is your product? How do you make? Let us know all the details!! Whats the history?
CR is a product line that has it's beginnings in NYC, 2012. The product's original intent was to offer folk remedies that were functional to use everyday for working professionals. Our Therapeutic Oils Collection was the first to be developed, later came the Aromatherapy Oils Collection. As with all of our products I identify a 'need' first, then blend the therapeutic essential oil formula. Before I decide on a public name and release it, I test for 6 - 12 months. The final product is a joy to present, as I see the hard work pay off in the users positive feedback.
What was your very first sold item or event you popped up at?
My very first pop up was with a dear friend and her magical dinners Methods & Madness in NYC where I served custom herbal elixirs. You can see the beautiful video here: https://vimeo.com/56213585
Do you have another project you are working on or upcoming?
The next upcoming 'project' is the Shakti Yatra Tour to India in March. As mentioned, I love to share with others the beauty of other cultures. This will be my 2nd tour to India and my 4th visit. It is always inspirational & mind opening for the attendees. India is truly an spectacular place.
What fears did you have to conquer to get where you are now? Most of us have those negative thoughts that say we cant and shouldn't take a risk or do something different, did you experience anything like that?
Having a business is not for the faint of heart. It is hard, dedicated work. But if you are in your personal truth and know you are doing a business from your deep desires then the fears are few and far between. It's also very important to be supported and surrounded by people who believe in you and your vision for your business.
How do you juggle your lifestyle?
One way I keep creativity high and feel gratitude is to do one big travel event a year. Usually to a place (domestically or internationally) I haven't been to before. This is one reason I began the Shakti Yatras Tours to give others the opportunity to step away and experience other cultures and other lifestyles.
Do you have a specific routine or way to stay on top of everything?
Yes, routines are like rituals they keep me grounded. Now a days the morning routine is:
Morning Meditation
Puppy time
Breakfast date with emails (This is one way to enjoy the loads of information coming in and coming out)
Creative time specifically for the business. 1-2 hours to 'strategize' and develop new products or services.
What do you hope to be doing in 1 year, 5 years? What is the ultimate goal?
The ultimate goal of CR is to bring wellness to the everyday for the people who are ready to live a conscious life.
Where do you hope this journey takes you?
I hope this journey inspires other to follow their dreams. To know that everyone can, and has a gift to share with the world.
What is your favorite part about living the vendor life?
Time is my currency, so I love having flexible time.
Who is your inspiration and/or role model?
My inspiration at the moment is Alabama Chanin. She lives and works a sustainable business. The is one of our main goals, to produce products and services that are regenerative for both the person healing and the healer.
And finally, do you have a special or funny story about being a vendor or small business owner?
On one of my first vending gigs a Jo Malone executive came to my table and raved about the aromatherapy oils. He said the only thing I 'needed' was to have boxes... That everything should have a box for presentation. I loved his feedback and felt truly flattered but CR is a packaging free business, using paper and cloth when we do extra packaging for a more sustainable approach.
Its been such a pleasure diving in a little deeper with Josie, we appreciate all that you do and your dedication to your craft. You can find our more about Josie and Curandera Remedies at https://www.instagram.com/curanderaremedies/ and https://www.curanderaremedies.com/.