We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sheherazad Barnes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Sheherazad, appreciate you joining us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

Growing up in a Persian family, my parents were particularly tough, especially my dad. In our culture, education is paramount, especially if you come from a good family. It’s often expected that you pursue esteemed professions such as a doctor, dentist, or engineer. This cultural emphasis on education pushed me to excel academically and pursue higher education.

I ended up studying psychology and was on the brink of completing my dissertation when I decided to pivot and pursue other interests. Although I didn’t become a psychologist, the education I received laid a solid foundation for my life and career. It provided me with a deep understanding of humanity, cultural nuances, and the similarities that connect us all. It also instilled in me structure, tenacity, and credibility.

One story that stands out is during my time in university, when I volunteered at a local community center. I was able to apply my psychological training to help individuals from diverse backgrounds, offering support and guidance. This experience not only honed my skills but also ignited my passion for helping others in a holistic manner.

Today, as an integrative holistic healer and coach, I draw upon the best aspects of my education. While I don’t use psychological jargon, I offer straightforward, compassionate support to my clients. My background in psychology enhances my ability to understand and empathize with people, allowing me to provide more effective and meaningful guidance.

In essence, my parents’ insistence on a strong educational foundation has been instrumental in shaping who I am today. Their tough love and high expectations instilled in me the discipline and determination needed to succeed, while my studies in psychology have enriched my capacity to connect with and help others.

Sheherazad, 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?

For those who may not be familiar with my journey, I began my professional career in a vastly different field from where I am today. After dropping out of graduate school, where I was studying psychology, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting or fashion. By the grace of God, within a week of arriving in LA, I landed a job with a fashion designer. This opportunity kickstarted a lucrative and successful career in the fashion industry. I transitioned from design to sales and eventually worked my way up to become the VP of Sales for a high-end denim company.

However, after a couple of decades, I realized that fashion and selling denim, despite my success, was not my true calling. My physical and mental health began to suffer, and I felt a deep sense of unfulfillment. This led me to seek out holistic health practitioners, yoga, and meditation, which started my healing journey. During this transformative period, I reconnected with my core passion—being of service and helping others.

Inspired by the positive impact these practices had on my life, I began to study various healing modalities, including yoga, meditation, sound healing, and breathwork. This path reignited my passion and gave me a sense of purpose and alignment I had never felt before. I found my calling in helping others find fulfillment in their lives, become their own gurus and healers, achieve their dreams, and claim their birthright of abundance.

What sets me apart in the integrative holistic healing field is my unique blend of experiences. Having navigated the pressures and successes of the corporate world, I understand the challenges many of my clients face. My approach is heart-centered and not about fixing others but igniting the fire within them to heal themselves. I provide a blueprint based on my own experiences, combined with my extensive education and training in holistic practices.

I am most proud of having built a multi six-figure business in the health and healing world. This achievement is a testament to my belief in myself and my passion for helping others. Leaving a lucrative job in the fashion industry to pursue my dreams was a significant risk, but it has been incredibly rewarding. The universe supported my journey because it was tied to helping others, creating a momentum that continues to grow.

Through my work, I aim to inspire others to believe in their potential, pursue their dreams, and live a life of abundance and fulfillment. My brand is built on integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others transform their lives.

Can you open up about how you managed the initial funding?

Funding my business was a strategic and carefully planned process. As someone who values a strong foundation and security, I knew I needed to approach this transition thoughtfully. While I was still working in the fashion industry, I began studying various healing modalities and immersed myself in the health and wellness world. This dual focus allowed me to gain valuable knowledge and skills while maintaining my primary source of income.

I started offering my services to people within my industry, seeing clients during nights and weekends. This initial phase helped me create momentum and build a client base, which gave me the confidence to eventually quit my high-profile position in fashion. However, I didn’t leap immediately; I transitioned into consulting for the fashion world, which provided a more flexible schedule.

One significant consulting role was with a yoga apparel brand, where I worked part-time. This arrangement allowed me to continue building my wellness business while still having a reliable income within the wellness field but marrying my fashion acumen with the healing world. As the yoga apparel brand’s business grew, I found myself dedicating more time to their success and less to my own brand. This brought me to a pivotal decision point: Should I continue to build someone else’s business or fully commit to my own?

I chose to take a full leap of faith and quit fashion altogether to dedicate myself entirely to my wellness brand. It was a bold move, but it was that leap of faith that catapulted me to where I am today. By gradually transitioning and strategically building my foundation, I was able to create a sustainable and thriving business in the health and healing world. This journey not only reinforced my belief in my abilities but also highlighted the importance of trusting the process and following one’s true passion.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

Absolutely, I would choose the same profession all over again. I love what I do, and I often find myself pinching myself to make sure this life I dreamt of is truly mine. Each day, I have the privilege of helping people transform their lives, ignite their dreams, and uncover their own inner powers. The infinite accolades for the transformations I help create and witnessing the people I work with blossom and thrive is incredibly fulfilling. There truly is no better feeling.

I’m surrounded by amazing individuals who are all striving to become the highest versions of themselves—spiritual seekers and kindred spirits. I work with crystals, energy, herbs, and practical magic, which are not just tools but extensions of the incredible journey we embark on together. Being my own boss allows me to create my own hours, enjoy slow, leisurely mornings, and spend quality time with friends and family, achieving a complete work-life balance.

Moreover, a wonderful aspect of my business is taking people on pilgrimages around the world. I get to travel to some of the most incredible places on Earth, often spiritual destinations and vortexes, with people who share my passion for growth and transformation. This aspect of my work is a dream come true and adds an enriching dimension to my life.

I am truly blessed and grateful for this path. The joy and fulfillment I experience daily reaffirm that I made the right choice in pursuing this profession.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://anahataholistichealing.com
• Instagram: iamsheherazad
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shehera
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheherabarnes/
• Youtube: @iamsheherazad
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/anahata-holistic-healing-beverly-hills