Okra Woman • Elsa Wu

Drops in the Ocean - Stories and Reflections from the Okra Collective

A series of intimate talks that explore the inner lives of fellow Okra collective members. Like the single drops that form the ocean, each woman holds worlds within herself that take on new meaning when shared. Connect and unwind with us as we immerse ourselves in the quiet beauty and wonder of their life stories.

1.Tell me about the jewelry you’re wearing today.

I wear the Snake ring and the Earth pendant from Okra daily, as well as some other discrete jewelries mostly from my mother that I practically never remove. Many of my jewelries have become an extension of my skin. I don’t feel them anymore, but I am uncomfortable when one is missing. On more special days Mama Gaia pendant is my go to and the Vanilla tea ring and the Island treasure ring are my newest favorites. I also love precious and semi-precious stones on jewelries.

2. How do you choose jewelry for yourself? Does wearing it transform your mind or mood in any particular way?

Love at first sight:) They usually reflect my personality. Some are for daily use: thin, practical, comfortable and of quality so I can keep wearing them for years. Some other ones are for special occasions: those are of charisma, authentic, elegant… My jewelries hold precious stories, sometimes they comfort me, and some other times they give me a sense of confidence. I believe they enhance my qualities and inner strength.

3. Daily life is rich with opportunities for creativity, from cooking a beautiful meal to styling your hair to having a deep conversation with a friend. Are there any special ways that you like to “make your life into art”?

Anything that has the power to awake my senses can become an inspiration to make my life into art. I often blend essential oils; I Iike cooking, but I never can replicate a dish twice; The spices I use, the tastes, they all vary according to my mood that moment; I hand make: whether it is with few bundles of yarn, macramé, threads and needles, paper and glue, paints… you name it. I also enjoy creating structured Yoga sequences. Sometimes I also don’t have any sequence for myself and move freely, ecstatically.

4. Are you a morning person or a night owl? How does that affect the daily rhythm of your life?

Definitely a morning person. I feel more energized when I wake up early, more productive, healthier, more alert and in tune with myself.

5. From opening your eyes in the morning to getting in bed at night, what would a “perfect day” look like for you?

Gaze at a soft sunrise, sipping a cup of hot herbal tea. Most ideally beach front, but balcony view will do just fine too:) Few rounds of Sun salutation. Meditate. Journal. A short bike ride while the city is just awakening. A good coffee with a good read. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables. Prepare a whole pot of comfort food. Spices. Aromas. Tastes. Spend some time with a good friend. Have a good witch-like belly laugh. Dance. Practice yoga. Sweat it out. Rest. Candles and essential oils. Another cup of tea. Cookies. Sleep early.