International Women's Day: In Conversation With Fable Founder Natalie

This International Women's Day 2022, We sat down with Fable founder Natalie to discover more about her yoga,  business and wellness journey to date. 

Tell us about you and your yoga journey?

I began the idea for Fable when I was working in fashion. I’d eventually become disillusioned in an industry that was constantly chasing the new rather than valuing what already was in existence. Yoga helped me find a little calm in the chaos. As life became more demanding, my practice became more important and I took a 200 hour YTT to learn more about how I could apply the philosophies and teachings to my own life. 

Why Did You Start Fable?

Fable was born out of what I thought was missing in the yoga space. I’d wasted money on slippery, poorly-performing yoga mats over the years and nothing hit the mark - the choice was limited in terms of design and many were made using harmful materials. I set out to develop a product that was truly high performing and ticked every box in terms of incredible grip, support and aesthetics but that gave back to people and planet and served the yoga community too. I tested the idea with two options and in a few months Fable captured the attention of magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, followed by Selfridges who became our first big stockist. But most importantly the brand began to resonate with students and teachers who aligned with the products and message.

Tell us more about the meaning behind the brand?

I strongly believe that yoga is something everyone should have in their self-care tool kit. I want to change that narrative - you don’t have to tick certain boxes to be ‘good’ at yoga. In fact, you can’t be ‘bad’ at yoga. It’s a personal practice, one where you meet yourself where you are, not force yourself into something you are not.

In a society that is constantly telling us to do more, be more, push harder, acquire more - yoga teachings help you to discover you’re already enough exactly as you are. And that’s something we could all use a little more of - time to be on the mat to be present.  I want more people to know that. It’s about wisdom and connection over acrobatics and appearance. That’s where our motto of ‘your practice, your story’ comes in. 

We’ve printed it on the top of our yoga mats as a reminder your practice is as unique as you are, to drop the judgment  - whether you prefer power or yin, hand-standing or seated stretches all is valid. The lessons learned on the mat extend into all areas of your life, it can be truly transformational.

Do you have any workout practices or self-care rituals that help you navigate the world in and outside of your comfort zone? 

When I want to move I’ll do a vinyasa yoga, spin or barre class at a studio if I can because the energy of others really helps to lift my own. When I need to rest and reset - I’ll practice yin, yoga nidra or a guided meditation at home. I’ll follow a class on YouTube or join one of my teacher’s online. Setting up my mat, props and blankets, lighting some incense or candles and just enjoying the time without the need to rush off. Yoga aside, just getting outdoors and leaving my phone behind always gives me an instant boost too. 

What women are you personally inspired by?

I feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many incredible, inspiring and strong women. Friends who have overcome personal hurdles and tragedies, mums juggling parenthood and careers, women who have set up incredible brands and businesses who continue to inspire and motivate everyone around them. My female friends and network are some of my biggest cheerleaders and I am for them. I think It’s important to lift up and celebrate other women.

What piece of advice or valuable knowledge would you have loved to have had before starting your journey that you’d love to pass on to someone else?

People may not always understand what you’re setting out to do or your vision initially so you have to champion yourself. Stay true to what you believe and trust your own instincts.

Finally, what is your favourite Fable product?

I have quite a few Fable mats on rotation! But I've been using the same blush pink one for a few years now, I took it on my teacher training with me a few years back so it has sentimental value now. 

Ready to join the Fable community? Shop our best-selling yoga mats here. 

Ready for more feel-good vibes this IWD? Head over to our Spotify for 3 hours of uplifting female artists curated for your workout, work in or work from  home.