Giana Jarrah Shares Her Top Self-care, Wellness, and Beauty Tips
An Interview With Maria Angelova
Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate all of your accomplishments, both big and small. Take pride in your achievements, whether they are related to your career, personal growth, or overcoming challenges. Acknowledging your strengths and successes contributes to a sense of inner beauty.
At times it feels like wellness or elevating one’s well-being, is diametrically opposed to high achievement and high performance in one’s career. The stress, mental energy, long hours, lack of restful sleep and preoccupation that result from a high-achievement life seem to directly inhibit wellness. And yet, in order to sustain the creativity, flexibility, mental acuity and resilience that are necessary for high performance, wellness and wellbeing of the mind, body and soul are also mandatory. So how do we achieve both? This is the question I’m hoping to answer through conversations with high-achieving leaders and influencers who are practicing their own philosophies about how to maintain their wellbeing.
As a part of our series about “Social Media Influencers Share Their Top Self Care, Wellness, and Beauty Tips, I had the pleasure of interviewing Giana Jarrah.
Giana Jarrah, a biomedical engineer, is dedicated to making the world a healthier place. As a first-generation Syrian-American woman, she faced recurring and chronic UTIs, developing resistance to multiple antibiotics during her time at Lehigh University. Frustrated by the lack of solutions from medical professionals after her experience, Giana took matters into her own hands and conducted her own research. She soon realized the widespread lack of knowledge about vaginal health among herself and millions of other women. Giana is committed to eliminating the stigma surrounding vaginas and offering individuals with an expert solution — a urinary and vaginal probiotic supplement designed to maintain vaginal and urinary health for life.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory of how you came upon this career path to where you are today?
In my capacity as the Founder and CEO of With Meraki Co., I bring a unique perspective as a first-generation Syrian-American woman, originally from Allentown, Pennsylvania. Despite my early inclination towards creativity and the arts, family expectations nudged me towards the traditional paths of law or medicine — specifically, as a lawyer or doctor. However, neither of these pursuits resonated with me. While my journey through high school did kindle a passion for science and medicine, the conventional medical career did not align with my desire to merge creativity with scientific exploration.
A pivotal moment during my sophomore year of high school, marked by my mother’s diagnosis of an aggressive stage of pre-cervical cancer, led me to an encounter with biomedical engineers seeking a path to remission for my mother. This encounter crystallized my vision, revealing that biomedical engineering was the ideal career to seamlessly blend my love for art and medicine. Subsequently, I set my sights on pursuing biomedical engineering at Lehigh University.
Throughout my academic journey as a biomedical engineer, I personally confronted the challenges of recurrent and chronic UTIs, resulting in resistance to multiple antibiotics. Frustrated by the lack of effective solutions from medical professionals, I undertook extensive research, uncovering a pervasive lack of knowledge about vaginal health among myself and millions of other women. Compounded by the existing stigma surrounding discussions of vaginal health, especially within ethnic households, this realization prompted me to take proactive measures.
Upon discovering that the antibiotics I had been prescribed had depleted my vaginal microbiome of essential bacteria, rendering me more susceptible to uro-vaginal infections, I delved into the world of probiotics. Conducting numerous laboratory experiments highlighting the pH-altering effects of probiotics and their pivotal role in maintaining optimal vaginal health, I founded With Meraki Co. The name “Meraki,” derived from the Greek word meaning to do something with love, soul, and creativity, embodies our commitment to both creativity and care.
With a dedication to eradicating the stigma surrounding vaginal health, I also sought to provide women with an expert solution — a urinary and vaginal probiotic supplement engineered to sustain vaginal and urinary health throughout life. Our first product, launched in the summer of 2022, is a probiotic supplement meticulously crafted with strains selected to repopulate the vagina, restoring and maintaining an environment conducive to a healthy and infection-free microbiome, complemented by other science-backed ingredients.
In addition to the significant milestones achieved by With Meraki Co., my journey has been characterized by a proactive approach to education and community engagement. Utilizing the power of social media, particularly TikTok, I shared my personal story, reaching a staggering 2.2 million views. The response was overwhelming, with over 5,000 individuals eagerly awaiting the launch of our product, joining the waitlist in anticipation.
Harnessing the momentum of this online community, I’ve transitioned my TikTok presence into an educational platform, leveraging its reach to impart knowledge on vaginal health. With a growing following of over 28,000 individuals, I use this platform to dispel myths, provide valuable insights, and promote conversations that contribute to the broader discourse on women’s health.
To date, my endeavors have been recognized with over $55,000 in grant funds, and our product has garnered sales across all 50 continental U.S. states, as well as Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam. This journey underscores With Meraki Co.’s commitment to advancing women’s health through innovative solutions and fostering a dialogue that transcends stigmas.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
Throughout this transformative journey, I’ve often likened myself to a scientist evolving into an entrepreneur, learning invaluable lessons every day. My progress has been shaped by the guidance and support of numerous individuals, to whom I extend my gratitude.
When I arrived at the pivotal point of translating my extensive research and experiments into a tangible product and business, I found myself at a crossroads. As a scientist at my core, the prospect of navigating the business landscape seemed daunting. Recognizing the need for strategic direction, I sought assistance from the business school at my university, specifically engaging with the Baker Institute.
The Baker Institute welcomed me with open arms, providing invaluable counsel on the crucial steps required to materialize my ambitious goals. Beyond guidance, they extended financial support through grant funds, propelling me toward the realization of my entrepreneurial aspirations.
Furthermore, this collaboration has facilitated the establishment of a meaningful relationship with Ben Franklin Technology Partners — a prominent technology-based economic development program on a national scale. Renowned for accelerating the growth of technology-based industries in Pennsylvania, Ben Franklin Technology Partners played a pivotal role in advancing With Meraki Co. They graciously opened their doors, providing me with a dedicated office space within their facilities and bolstering my endeavors with additional grant funds.
This strategic alliance has not only fortified my entrepreneurial journey but has also positioned With Meraki Co. for accelerated growth and success. The collective support from the university’s Baker Institute and Ben Franklin Technology Partners emphasizes the collaborative efforts driving the success of my vision.
It has been said that sometimes our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story with us about the most humorous mistake you made when you were first starting? What lesson or take-away did you learn from that?
Reflecting on my experience in sharing my entrepreneurial journey on social media, it now strikes me as somewhat amusing. Admittedly, there was a delay in recognizing the potential of social media as a successful tool for business growth. However, this realization dawned swiftly and unmistakably with the unprecedented success of my first video, which quickly went viral.
The apprehension and reluctance that initially hindered my engagement with social media were rooted in a lack of confidence as a business owner. Swiftly acknowledging this hurdle, I embarked on a rapid learning curve to enhance my understanding and proficiency. This transformative experience propelled me towards a more consistent and strategic approach, fostering an elevated level of brand awareness for With Meraki Co. and for me as the Scientist/Founder.
The evolution from initial hesitancy to proactive engagement highlight the crucial lesson learned in the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship. Embracing social media as a powerful ally, I have not only conquered fears but also harnessed its potential to amplify brand visibility and effectively communicate With Meraki Co.’s mission. This journey stands as a testament to the adaptability and growth inherent in entrepreneurial endeavors.
As an influencer, you have been blessed with great success in a career path that many have attempted, but eventually gave up on. In fact, perhaps most people who tried to follow a career path like yours did not succeed. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path but know that their dreams might be dashed?
Achieving success on social media hinges on two pivotal factors, each important to navigating the saturated landscape of content creators. Firstly, authenticity stands out as a cornerstone principle. In a digital realm filled with countless creators and videos across various platforms, the temptation to adopt a facade to stand out is palpable. While uniqueness undoubtedly captures attention, there is a clear difference between showcasing genuine uniqueness and assuming a contrived persona. Audiences possess a discerning eye, often able to detect authenticity. Hence, my primary advice is to authentically portray oneself, fostering a connection that transcends superficial distinctiveness.
Secondly, the consistency of content creation emerges as a paramount determinant of social media success. Patience is of great importance in a realm where overnight triumphs are a rarity. Many individuals do not experience immediate success, with the journey toward recognition often extending over months or even years. Remaining patient in the commitment to authenticity and consistently producing content is key. By adhering to these principles, individuals embark on a social media journey that unfolds organically, progressively gaining traction as they remain true to their genuine selves.
Can you share with our readers some of the strategies you’ve used to build an engaged, loyal, and large online community?
The strategic and ongoing engagement with my audience is a practice that remains integral as my presence expands. My enthusiasm for interacting with the audience is manifested through thoughtful engagement in comments, video replies, and direct messages. This active participation establishes a tangible connection between myself, my customers, and my broader audience, fostering a sense of genuine connection and community.
To maintain a dynamic and captivating online presence, I meticulously curate content that seamlessly balances trends with informative videos. This deliberate alternation ensures that my audience is consistently surprised and engaged. Crucially, I adhere to authenticity, ensuring that every piece of content aligns with both my personal ethos and the overarching identity of my brand. In navigating this delicate balance, I aim not only to captivate but also to provide valuable and authentic interactions that resonate with my audience, contributing to sustained engagement and brand loyalty.
Ok thank you for all that. Now let’s shift to the main focus of our interview. In my work, I focus on how one can thrive and care for oneself in three areas: body, mind, and heart. You are a busy person with a demanding schedule, can you share with our readers two self-care routines, practices or treatments that help your body thrive? (Kindly share a story or an example for each.)
The first pillar of my self-care routine, pivotal for ensuring my body’s optimal well-being, may not come as a surprise given my professional focus. Consistency in the consumption of my own brand of probiotic supplements is my foremost self-care practice. Recognizing that health is indeed wealth, I prioritize maintaining my well-being, understanding that my physical health directly influences my ability to excel in achieving career objectives. As a testament to the efficacy of my product, I am not only the creator but also a devoted user of my own probiotic supplement. Since incorporating it into my daily routine, I have experienced a notable absence of UTIs, BV, or yeast infections, reinforcing the transformative impact of this self-care practice.
In addition to my supplement routine, a second self-care practice involves indulging in occasional facial treatments or deep tissue massages. Acknowledging the demands of my rigorous schedule, where sufficient rest and sleep may sometimes be compromised, I find comfort in compensating through rejuvenating practices. Recognizing the signals from both my skin and body, I treat myself to either a facial or massage when needed. This deliberate investment in relaxation and revitalization becomes a crucial counterbalance, ensuring that I prioritize not only the internal well-being facilitated by my supplements but also the external aspects through rejuvenating spa treatments. This holistic approach to self-care is harmonious with my commitment to maintaining a balance between professional aspirations and personal well-being.
Can you share with us two routines that you use to help your mind or heart to thrive? (Kindly share a story or example for each.)
Cultivating a thriving mind and heart is a deliberate pursuit in my routine, with journaling being an important practice. Rather than sticking to a rigid daily schedule, I prioritize the quality of my journaling sessions, allowing myself the flexibility to engage in this reflective practice when the time permits.
In addition to journaling, I nurture my mental and emotional well-being by delving into artistic hobbies such as drawing and painting. Embracing these creative pursuits during moments of respite allows me to channel passion and love into tangible expressions. Beyond personal artistic endeavors, I find inspiration and fascination in exploring museums and art galleries.
By striking a balance between reflective practices and the pursuit of artistic inspiration, I aim to cultivate a thriving mind and heart that enhances both personal fulfillment and professional pursuits.
Can you help articulate why self-care is so important for your mental wellness?
Unlocking peak performance, both in professional and personal realms, hinges on the often-overlooked realm of mental wellness. Much like the attention devoted to physical health, nurturing one’s mental health is paramount. I’ve discerned a profound correlation between neglecting my mental well-being and a palpable dip in productivity.
On days when the intricate tapestry of my mental wellness is unintentionally set aside, I find myself navigating a landscape where productivity wanes. The ebb and flow of daily tasks become more arduous, and the vibrancy that typically colors my professional and personal pursuits diminishes. It’s a stark reminder that mental health is not a mere auxiliary aspect but an instrumental force, intricately woven into the fabric of our overall well-being.
The allure of optimal productivity is an irresistible force, and the key to unlocking this lies in a conscious commitment to mental wellness. As I delve into the intricate dance between mental health and peak performance, the realization deepens — every stride towards mental well-being is a stride towards unlocking untapped potential and embracing the richness of both personal and professional spheres.
Can you share five ideas that anyone can use “to feel beautiful”?
Certainly! Feeling beautiful is a subjective and a personal experience that goes beyond physical appearance. Here are five ideas that anyone can explore to enhance their sense of beauty:
1. Self-Care Rituals:
As discussed earlier, engaging in regular self-care that caters to both your physical and mental well-being is incredibly important. This can include skincare routines, relaxing baths, meditation, or any activity that brings you joy and helps you unwind. Prioritizing self-care not only contributes to a radiant appearance but also fosters a positive mindset.
2. Wear What Makes You Confident:
Choose clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Regardless of your style and what others think of it, whether it’s a favorite outfit, a well-fitted suit, or even loungewear that makes you feel good, wearing clothes that align with your personal style and make you feel confident can significantly impact your sense of beauty.
3. Celebrate Achievements:
Recognize and celebrate all of your accomplishments, both big and small. Take pride in your achievements, whether they are related to your career, personal growth, or overcoming challenges. Acknowledging your strengths and successes contributes to a sense of inner beauty.
4. Foster healthy relationships/connections:
Fostering healthy relationships is essential for emotional, mental, and physical well-being, personal growth, and overall life satisfaction. These connections contribute to a resilient and fulfilling life, impacting various aspects of our health and happiness. The individuals that you foster healthy relationships with are likely individuals who love you and admire your beauty unconditionally. Having that supportive system is important on days you are struggling to feel beautiful.
5. Connect with Nature:
Spend time in nature to rejuvenate your mind and spirit. Whether it’s a walk in the park or simply sitting by a body of water, connecting with nature has a profound impact on your well-being. The sense of peace and appreciation for the natural world can enhance your perception of beauty, both within and around you.
Remember, feeling beautiful is an experience that involves nurturing your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These ideas serve as a starting point, and the key is to explore activities and practices that resonate with you personally.
Is there a particular resource, a practitioner, expert, book, or podcast that made a significant impact on you and helped you to thrive? Can you share a story about that with us?
In my quest for knowledge regarding the female reproductive system, I have found resources in NCBI and Pubmed. My background as a biomedical engineer equips me with a skill set for deciphering the intricacies of research papers and white papers, setting a solid foundation for understanding the nuanced science of the vaginal microbiome.
The internet world is filled with misinformation, and I recognized the importance of using trustworthy sources to unravel the authentic science behind vaginal health. This dedication stemmed not just from personal curiosity but from a profound realization that the vast majority of brands and companies often rely on outdated or debunked information merely to bolster product sales. This industry landscape compelled me to be a catalyst for change — a conscientious force committed to genuine education and empowerment.
By immersing myself in the wealth of research papers available through NCBI and Pubmed, I aimed not only to comprehend the intricacies of my own body but also to sift through the noise of misleading information prevalent in the online sphere. The intention was clear: to set a new standard, one where knowledge reigns supreme, and misinformation finds no foothold.
This commitment fueled the creation of a product that goes beyond mere marketability. Instead, it stands as a testament to a rigorous understanding of the true science of female reproductive health. My mission is twofold — to educate my audience with science and to offer a product that authentically addresses a genuine need. In a landscape saturated with half-truths, my journey is anchored in the pursuit of knowledge, transparency, and elevating the discourse surrounding women’s health.
As an influencer, you are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.
As a unique combination of influencer and scientist, my commitment extends beyond personal pursuits to spearheading a transformative shift in the discourse surrounding female reproductive health. Throughout history, the neglect and stigmatization of women’s health have persisted, underscored by the stark reality that less than 2.5% of publicly funded research is directed specifically towards understanding female reproductive health.
This disheartening statistic serves as both a challenge and a catalyst for me. The intersectionality of my roles empowers me to not only raise awareness but to actively contribute to altering the trajectory of how women and their health are perceived within the medical realm. My ambition transcends conventional boundaries, seeking to dismantle stereotypes and instigate a paradigm shift in the approach to female reproductive health.
Inspiring a movement is not just a personal aspiration; it is a mission of profound importance. The endeavor encompasses breaking down entrenched norms, amplifying the importance of dedicated research, and fostering a cultural transformation that places women’s health at the forefront. This journey is a testament to my unwavering dedication to being a force for change, with the ultimate goal of reshaping the narrative surrounding female reproductive health in both scientific and societal contexts.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world with whom you’d like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this. :-)
Partaking in a private meal with Oprah Winfrey presents a unique and compelling opportunity for an intellectually stimulating and memorable experience. As a transformative figure in the world of media and beyond, Oprah’s life journey has been defined by resilience, determination, and extraordinary success.
This exclusive setting offers the chance to glean firsthand insights into her remarkable experiences, challenges, and the invaluable lessons acquired throughout her illustrious career. Oprah’s wisdom and perspective, honed by her exceptional life story, promises to be genuinely inspirational.
Known for her ability to engage in deep, meaningful conversations, a breakfast or lunch with Oprah becomes a forum for empowering discussions on topics ranging from personal growth to overcoming obstacles and making a positive impact. The potential for a transformative and uplifting evening is heightened by Oprah’s unparalleled ability to connect with individuals on a profound level.
Beyond the enriching dialogue, the private meal serves as a gateway to Oprah’s extensive network and influence. Engaging in thoughtful conversations and building a rapport during this intimate setting could potentially unlock doors to valuable connections. Opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, or exposure to new and exciting ventures may emerge, making the experience not only enlightening but also a catalyst for professional growth.
In essence, the prospect of sharing a meal with Oprah Winfrey transcends the ordinary; it is an invitation to an extraordinary encounter that blends inspiration, empowerment, and the potential for forging meaningful connections in the realm of media and beyond.
What is the best way our readers can follow you on social media?
Connect with me on TikTok (@gianamj) and Instagram (@gianaaaaj) to stay updated on my latest insights and endeavors. For a closer look at my business, explore the site at www.shopwithmerakico.com and engage with us on Instagram (@withmerakico). Join me in the journey towards empowerment, knowledge, and innovative solutions.
Thank you for these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
About The Interviewer: Maria Angelova, MBA is a disruptor, author, motivational speaker, body-mind expert, Pilates teacher, and founder and CEO of Rebellious Intl. As a disruptor, Maria is on a mission to change the face of the wellness industry by shifting the self-care mindset for consumers and providers alike. As a mind-body coach, Maria’s superpower is alignment which helps clients create a strong body and a calm mind so they can live a life of freedom, happiness, and fulfillment. Prior to founding Rebellious Intl, Maria was a Finance Director and a professional with 17+ years of progressive corporate experience in the Telecommunications, Finance, and Insurance industries. Born in Bulgaria, Maria moved to the United States in 1992. She graduated summa cum laude from both Georgia State University (MBA, Finance) and the University of Georgia (BBA, Finance). Maria’s favorite job is being a mom. Maria enjoys learning, coaching, creating authentic connections, working out, Latin dancing, traveling, and spending time with her tribe. To contact Maria, email her at angelova@rebellious-intl.com. To schedule a free consultation, click here.
