M. H Journal

As a fragrance brand, we're passionate about the role scent can play in developing self-confidence and a platform from which to thrive. This week, in the spirit of our partnership with Dress for Success Greater London, a charity that works to help women succeed in both their daily lives, we're catching up with some of the influential women who have not only worked to empower themselves, but also women across the globe. Two individuals who have done just this, are Eileen Greene and Kath Clement, Directors of Mooncup, the company behind the original silicone menstrual cup. We sit down to discover their mission and a few words of wisdom... As a brand, how does Mooncup aim to support and empower women? Kath: The Mooncup was the first silicone menstrual cup in the world, and offers an alternative to the waste, discomfort, inconvenience and expense of conventional period product: in many ways, it doesn’t get much more freeing and empowering than that! Our advice service, run by medical health professionals is here to help our users make the switch with confidence. The Mooncup is also offered free of charge through multiple period poverty projects including through schools and colleges throughout England, as well as other NGOs and charities internationally. Eileen: Mooncup has always been a feminist business, run by women. And it’s always been about empowerment: about saying no to the shame and embarrassment promoted by the old-school “feminine hygiene” industry – about owning our period. This International Women’s Day, we’re working with Dress For Success who’s mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. What steps do you take to help you feel supported and confident both in personal and professional life? Eileen: For me daily routines such as meditation & exercise help me to stay grounded and focused so I’m prepared for whatever comes up over the course of the working day, as well as the challenges that this life stage brings with ageing parents etc. So much support comes from the people in my life, be they friends, family, colleagues or people in my professional network, so making time to connect with others is hugely important. Kath: Opportunities to connect with other female business owners, in which we authentically share experiences and work through questions that are coming up for us professionally are a great resource of support and often emboldening. Likewise, after all this working from home, getting together with the Mooncup team is a proper tonic! More personally, creative coaching has been a great way to reset where I’m at and would like to be. Still the bedrock of it all for me tends to be brilliant friends and family, as well as nature, playfulness & adventure where I can find it! Mooncup champions a sustainable and ethical approach to well-being and ensures users feel confident - what type of scent makes you feel confident and optimistic? Eileen: I tend to feel confident when I feel grounded so I love earthy, woody scents like sandalwood and cedar. Kath: The simple zing of citrus definitely lifts my spirit. How do you use scent within your routine/throughout the day to practice self-care? Kath: I became much more attuned to how much smell mattered to me as the world shut down during Covid- those fundamentals became all the more important! From natural cedar based body washes to lighting my home office space with a scented plant wax candle, scent is definitely something I really appreciate and bring into my everyday… Don’t get me started on perfumes! Eileen: I’m a big fan of aromatherapy so will often use essential oils as part of my self care routines. My current favourites are a few drops of basil essential oil for morning showers and relaxing oils such as chamomile or jasmine in the bath to wind down after a busy day. A friend recently gifted me a beautifully scented plant wax candle which I love to burn when reading and relaxing at home. About Mooncup® Mooncup®️ is the original, silicone menstrual cup trusted by millions worldwide. It’s a healthier and greener alternative to tampons and pads. Designed by women and made from soft, medical-grade silicone, the Mooncup® is so comfortable you can forget you’re on your period. Made in the UK, the reusable Mooncup menstrual cup is an easy way to dramatically reduce the waste you produce. Discover more at mooncup.co.uk.