We were lucky to catch up with Charnay Brandon recently and have shared our conversation below.

Charnay, appreciate you joining us today. We love heartwarming stories – do you have a heartwarming story from your career to share?

A few years ago, I decided to stand on Venice Beach Boardwalk with a simple sign that read: “Free Hugs.” It was a spontaneous decision that came from a deep place within me, fueled by the desire to bring a little comfort into the world. I didn’t anticipate the profound impact that gesture would have on me and the many people I met that day.

I wasn’t sure what to expect as I stood there, nervously holding the sign. But almost immediately, people began to approach, some with smiles, others with tears. In those brief moments of connection, I could feel the weight of their lives—the quiet struggles they were carrying, the silent burdens they were desperately trying to manage. And, in return, I felt something extraordinary: the healing power of a simple human touch, the unspoken comfort of knowing you’re not alone.

I embraced strangers from all walks of life—people holding it together for so long that they had forgotten what it felt like to be held. Some hugged me in silence; others spoke of their pain, their losses, their anxiety. It became so clear to me how much people yearn for connection, understanding, and support. The hugs weren’t just physical—they were a reminder that, even in our busiest, most isolated moments, we all need love and affirmation that we matter.

That experience changed me. It helped me realize that the emotional needs I was witnessing weren’t isolated incidents; they were part of a larger, universal truth. So many people are struggling—whether it’s with mental health challenges, life transitions, or the overwhelming weight of daily stress. And yet, so many don’t have the resources or the support they need to heal.

In that moment of clarity, I knew I had to do something more. I wanted to offer more than just a hug; I wanted to create a space where people could come to heal, learn, and feel supported. It was then that I realized my true calling: to pursue a career in mental health and become the support I had seen so many desperately seek.

Since then, I’ve been dedicated to pursuing my licenses and education, taking the steps needed to open my own private practice. It’s not just a career for me—it’s a mission to provide people with the tools they need to heal and thrive. Alongside my clinical work, I’ve begun creating workshops, programs, and community events that foster connection and promote emotional wellness—workshops that will eventually be part of my private practice and wellness center.

Though I’m still earning my licenses and certifications, the foundation of my practice is already being built with love, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others. I want to offer a sanctuary where emotional wellness is prioritized and people can feel seen, heard, and supported—just as I felt when I gave out free hugs.

The journey is still unfolding, but I’ve never been more sure of my path. Every step I take toward becoming a licensed mental health professional is driven by the belief that even the smallest acts of care—a hug, a kind word, or a safe space—can create profound change. I’m excited to continue building a wellness center that will not only provide healing but also give people the sense of connection and community that I witnessed on that unforgettable day.

Charnay, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, I’m Charnay Brandon the founder of Grounding Oasis Wellness Center, proudly managed by Sincerely Healing Soul. As a mental health professional and wellness advocate, my mission is to create a peaceful and transformative space where emotional healing, stress management, and personal growth can flourish. My journey began with a life-changing moment that made me realize how deeply interconnected our mental, emotional, and physical health truly are.

Years ago, I stood on a busy Venice Beach Boardwalk with a sign that read, “Free Hugs.” What began as a simple, spontaneous gesture quickly turned into something far deeper: a connection with people who longed for emotional release and healing. It became clear to me that people needed more than just a hug—they needed a sanctuary where they could heal from the inside out.

This realization led to the creation of Grounding Oasis Wellness Center—a place where individuals can find the tools and support they need to manage stress, explore their emotional world, and embark on their journey of self-discovery. Managed by Sincerely Healing, I design every workshop and program with the intention to create holistic, transformative experiences that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.

What We Do: Integrating Mindfulness, Healing Modalities, and Holistic Care

At Grounding Oasis, we offer a variety of services that combine therapeutic techniques, mindfulness practices, and holistic treatments. Our goal is to help you reduce stress, discover your inner peace, and develop emotional resilience—all within a peaceful, spa-like environment designed to promote relaxation and healing.

A Spa Environment for Relaxation and Healing
The moment you walk into Grounding Oasis Wellness Center, you’ll feel a shift in energy. Designed with serenity in mind, our center is a spa-inspired sanctuary that fosters relaxation, peace, and emotional restoration. Soft lighting, soothing aromas, tranquil sounds, and calming aesthetics all come together to create a peaceful environment where you can unwind and rejuvenate.

Our spa environment is the perfect backdrop for the healing practices we offer, whether you’re here for individual therapy, group workshops, or specialized treatments. From the peaceful sound of a gong in a sound healing session to the gentle warmth of a red light therapy session, every aspect of our wellness center is designed to support your body and mind in a state of relaxation and renewal.

Stress Management: Mindful Practices and Holistic Healing
Stress is an undeniable part of life, but it doesn’t have to control your mental and physical well-being. At Grounding Oasis, we use a combination of mindful practices, movement, and holistic treatments to reduce stress and promote overall healing. These services are all designed to help you feel centered, calm, and more balanced in your daily life.

Movement, Sound Healing, and Stretching Yoga: We offer movement-based workshops that integrate bodywork, gentle yoga, and sound healing. These sessions are designed to release emotional blockages, reduce physical tension, and promote relaxation. Stretching yoga classes focus on flexibility and mindful movement, allowing you to reconnect with your body and alleviate the physical effects of stress. The sound healing aspect uses instruments like singing bowls, chimes, and gongs to create a deep sense of calm and healing.

Red Light Therapy for Restoration: In our spa-like environment, we offer red light therapy, which supports tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and promotes mental well-being. Red light therapy has been shown to improve mood, increase energy levels, and enhance overall health, making it an ideal complement to the stress-reducing services we offer.

Breathing and Relaxation Practices: Through guided breathing techniques and relaxation exercises, we teach clients how to manage stress in real time. These simple yet effective tools can be practiced anywhere, helping you return to a peaceful state of mind whenever you need it most.

Self-Discovery: Journaling, Reflection, and Emotional Growth
Self-discovery is at the heart of the work we do at Grounding Oasis. We create space for you to explore your inner world, uncover your passions, and align your life with your authentic self. With a focus on self-reflection and personal growth, our self-discovery programs are designed to guide you toward emotional clarity and empowerment.

Guided Journaling for Emotional Insight: Journaling is one of the most powerful tools for gaining insight into your thoughts and emotions. At Grounding Oasis, we offer journaling workshops where you can explore your inner dialogue, clarify your goals, and reflect on the changes you want to see in your life. Writing provides a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions and fostering self-awareness.

Mindfulness and Reflection: We integrate mindfulness practices throughout our workshops to help you stay present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. These practices allow you to uncover deeper truths about yourself and your life’s journey.

Holistic Healing Modalities: In addition to therapy and journaling, we also offer sound healing and movement-based therapies as part of our self-discovery process. These practices help clients tap into deeper layers of self-awareness and emotional healing.

What We Solve: Stress, Emotional Overwhelm, and Life’s Challenges

We know that modern life is full of stress, challenges, and emotional overwhelm. Whether it’s work, relationships, or the pressures of daily life, many people struggle to find a sense of calm and clarity. At Grounding Oasis, we’re here to help you manage stress, reduce anxiety, and develop emotional resilience. Our spa-inspired environment and holistic wellness practices are designed to help you:

Reduce Stress and Anxiety: With our integrative approach, which combines mindful movement, sound therapy, yoga, and red light therapy, we address both the physical and emotional aspects of stress. Our goal is to help you feel more centered, relaxed, and in control of your emotional well-being.

Reignite Your Self-Discovery: Whether you’re seeking clarity about your life’s direction or working through emotional blocks, we offer the tools and guidance to help you uncover your authentic self. Through reflective practices like journaling and mindfulness, you’ll gain insight into your true desires, strengths, and purpose.

Build Emotional Resilience: Emotional resilience is key to navigating life’s challenges with grace and confidence. We teach clients how to manage difficult emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and create lasting change.

What Sets Us Apart: A Holistic, Spa-Inspired Approach to Wellness

What sets Grounding Oasis Wellness Center apart is the combination of holistic healing and a spa-like environment that promotes deep relaxation and personal transformation. The serene and tranquil space we’ve created enhances every service we offer, from sound healing to red light therapy to mindful movement. Every aspect of our wellness center is designed to help you feel nurtured, supported, and at ease as you embark on your journey of self-discovery and healing.

Our services—designed by me, [Your Name], through Sincerely Healing Soul—are tailored to meet your individual needs, combining the latest therapeutic techniques with time-honored practices. I believe that true healing comes when we address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and our spa-inspired wellness center provides the perfect setting for that journey.

What I’m Most Proud Of

I’m most proud of the sanctuary we’ve built at Grounding Oasis, where clients can step away from the stresses of daily life and focus on their healing process. The ability to watch clients transform—whether it’s through reducing stress, overcoming emotional blocks, or discovering their true potential—brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

What I Want Clients and the Community to Know

At Grounding Oasis Wellness Center, you are not just a client—you are a whole person deserving of healing, peace, and support. Whether you’re dealing with stress, emotional overwhelm, or simply seeking a deeper connection to yourself, we are here to guide you on your journey. Our spa-like environment is designed to help you relax, heal, and find balance—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I first started my wellness center, I was driven by the desire to help as many people as I could. I wanted to make a real impact on the lives of others, and I believed the best way to do that was by offering free services and support. I poured my heart and soul into providing resources, classes, and workshops at no charge, thinking that this would be the best way to build trust, attract clients, and establish a sense of community.

At first, it felt right. I saw people benefiting from what I was offering—whether it was movement classes, sound healing sessions, or mindfulness workshops—and that brought me so much joy. But over time, I began to notice that something wasn’t aligning. I was exhausted. My time and energy were being drained, and I wasn’t getting the support or compensation I needed to continue providing high-quality services. What I had hoped would build a thriving community was actually depleting me, both emotionally and financially.

I realized that while my heart was in the right place, I had neglected the business side of my wellness center. I had to get real with myself. If I wanted to keep helping people in the long term, I needed to treat my business with the respect it deserved. I had to learn how to balance my passion with practicality. So, I made the tough decision to stop offering free services and to pivot toward a more sustainable model.

It wasn’t an easy transition. I feared that people would feel like I was “charging” for something that had once been free, and I worried that I might lose the very community I had worked so hard to build. But the truth was clear: in order to keep growing, I had to take my business seriously and create a structure that would support both my clients and myself. I had to set clear boundaries and begin valuing my time and expertise.

The next step was getting really clear on my goals. I asked myself hard questions: What kind of impact did I want to make? What was the purpose of my wellness center? Who was I truly here to serve? I redefined my vision—not just for myself but for the people I wanted to help. I knew that I wanted to create a space that offered healing, growth, and transformation, but I also wanted to build a business that would allow me to live sustainably and continue my work long-term.

One of the most important steps in this process was reaching out for support. I realized that I couldn’t do it all alone. I began seeking business partners and mentors who could help guide me through this new phase. I learned that partnerships could amplify my impact and offer new perspectives, both professionally and personally. I connected with individuals who believed in my vision and who had the experience and expertise to help me navigate the challenges of running a wellness center. It was a humbling but necessary shift—I needed help to grow, and I couldn’t do it in isolation.

In parallel, I started making strategic changes in how I structured my offerings. I began creating paid services, workshops, and packages that allowed me to offer high-value content while also ensuring that my work was sustainable. This shift required a lot of courage because it meant asking for fair compensation for the services I provided. But as I embraced this change, I found that people didn’t just respect it—they appreciated it. They saw the value in what I was offering and understood that in order for me to continue supporting them, I needed to create a sustainable business model.

The process of pivoting wasn’t without its challenges. There were moments of self-doubt and fear of losing clients, but with every new partnership and every step forward, I began to see the benefits. Not only was I able to maintain the quality of service I wanted to offer, but I was also able to create new opportunities for collaboration, growth, and financial stability.

I’ve come to understand that being a business owner is about more than just passion—it’s about building a foundation that allows you to serve your community without burning out. As my wellness center grows, I’m proud of the choices I’ve made to prioritize my well-being, build valuable partnerships, and provide the high-quality care that my clients deserve.

Today, I feel empowered by the decision to pivot. I’ve learned the importance of clear goals, the value of seeking support, and the necessity of setting boundaries in both my personal and professional life. It’s a journey that continues to evolve, but I’m confident that with the right mindset, clear vision, and supportive partnerships, Grounding Oasis Wellness Center will continue to flourish—not just as a place of healing, but as a sustainable, thriving business that makes a real difference in the lives of others.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

There was a time when everything in my life felt like it was falling apart. My marriage ended, and I was left to navigate the heavy emotional weight of divorce while trying to balance the demands of motherhood and my professional aspirations. At the same time, I was deeply committed to my goal of gaining the necessary licenses to open my private practice—a dream that had always been in the back of my mind, but now seemed farther away than ever.

The pain of divorce was raw, and I often felt like I was standing at the edge, uncertain of how to move forward. The life I had known was no longer the same, and as a mother, I needed to be strong not just for myself, but for my children, too. On top of all of this, I was still working hard toward my licenses, hoping to one day open my private practice and wellness center where I could help others heal and grow.

I won’t lie—there were days when I felt overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure of how I could possibly keep going. Some mornings, it was a struggle just to get out of bed. But amidst all the chaos, I knew one thing: I couldn’t give up on myself. I couldn’t give up on my dreams.

I made the decision to keep pushing forward, even when everything around me felt uncertain. Working toward my licenses became a beacon of hope—a tangible goal that helped me stay focused, even when everything else felt like it was spinning out of control. There were nights when I stayed up late studying, working on assignments, and preparing for exams after my kids had gone to bed. There were early mornings before they woke up when I’d carve out time for myself to study and take care of the necessary tasks. It wasn’t always easy, and it wasn’t always pretty, but I showed up every single day.

What kept me going was the belief that the work I was doing would allow me to create something meaningful—not just for me, but for my children as well. I wanted to build a legacy of healing and strength for them. I wanted them to see me overcome adversity and pursue my dreams, even in the face of challenges. I wanted to show them that no matter what life throws at you, you can rise, you can heal, and you can rebuild.

But it wasn’t just about the end goal. The journey itself taught me valuable lessons. I learned the importance of self-compassion and patience. I realized that it’s okay to have tough days, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. I also understood that healing from my divorce, balancing the needs of my children, and working toward my professional goals weren’t mutually exclusive. They were all interconnected parts of my story, shaping me into who I was meant to become.

Balancing motherhood and my professional ambitions has required constant adjustments. There have been sacrifices, yes, but there have also been beautiful moments of growth. When I’m with my kids, I focus on being fully present with them. When I’m studying or working toward my licenses, I give it my all. I’ve learned to create boundaries to protect my time and energy, and to trust that the moments of rest and self-care are just as important as the moments of hard work.

I am incredibly proud of the progress I’ve made, not just in my career but in how I’ve navigated the ups and downs of life. Each small step I’ve taken has brought me closer to my dream of opening my wellness center and private practice. I’m now designing the programs and workshops I will offer, and I know that one day soon, I’ll be able to provide the support, healing, and guidance to others that I’ve worked so hard to cultivate in my own life.

Starting over wasn’t easy. There were days I questioned whether I was strong enough to juggle it all. But I’ve come to understand that resilience isn’t about never breaking. It’s about choosing to keep going even when you feel like you’re at your lowest. It’s about showing up for your dreams, for your family, and for yourself, even on the hardest days.

Today, I’m not just surviving—I’m thriving. My journey is ongoing, but I know that I’m capable of achieving my goals. Through the challenges of divorce, motherhood, and building my career, I’ve learned that no matter how difficult life gets, we have the strength to rebuild, to grow, and to find peace within ourselves. And I’m more determined than ever to continue working toward the life I’ve dreamed of—for myself and for my children.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sincerelyahealingsoul.com/
• Instagram: Sincerelyahealingsoulinc

Image Credits

shots by dre for profile picture