How it all began

In a galaxy far far away ….

OK, not a galaxy, but it was certainly a long long time ago when my story really began. Sure, there’s the usual- being born, growing up, all of that – but the most relevant part started when I was 12. This is when I started coaching gymnastics, sparking the beginning of my passion for helping people through human movement.  As soon as I left school I launched into my studies, and by 20 I was a qualified personal trainer and fitness instructor.

I’m now just a little over 20 (ok, fine, I’m 44) and despite the time lapse, one thing hasn’t changed. I still have a love for helping people. Helping them become the best version of themselves, realise their full potential, and feel good in their bodies. But another fascination has started to develop… How can I help as many people as possible without limitation to those I know and work with?

At the time this epiphany came on, I noticed a theme around me. I had clients preparing for surgery, friends and clients struggling with discomfort from autoimmune diseases, and family members tackling their own health challenges. I of course wanted to help them, give them something practical, something they could use to make life a little easier.

I know all about the amazing benefits of hot and cold treatment for pain and inflammation, so naturally I started looking for a compress pack to help these people – but every single one I found was missing something. 

This is where I owe a big thanks to my mum.  She always taught us, “if you can’t find what you need, make it yourself.”  So, I started researching, designing and testing my own gel pack. 

I really wanted a versatile product that was beautiful, practical and damn right comfortable. Something that could work for everyone, from people without microwaves to those who needed relief but couldn’t stop their busy lives. And yes, even for people like my poor friend who managed to burn themselves with a hot water bottle.

The more I developed the product the more excited I became. That’s when Nikki joined me - another human-helping-obsessed professional. Together, we’ve built what is now The Hug.

If my 12 year old self could see me now, I think she’d be pretty proud. I’m still getting my thrills from helping people every day, just on a much bigger scale. I feel so fortunate to have created something that aligns with my purpose: empowering individuals to unlock their potential, surpass goals and achieve pain-free movement. 

And that’s how The Hug came to be – a little product born from a big dream to help as many people as possible. 

What a lucky person I am.

Nat x