A healing journey with every bite.
A taste of home, a space for healing.
We craft Filipino-American-inspired desserts with a twist: every treat is made in small batches, sustainably, and served with a dose of mindfulness. From affirmations to unique flavors, we’re here to spark joy, encourage conversations about mental health, and ensure you always leave with something sweet for the soul.
“An homage to past selves who needed the resources I have today, where creativity, my inner artist child, and healing join forces.”
When I began taking my baking seriously in 2021, I learned that my depression symptoms lessened and that all I wanted to do was tend to my inner child who didn’t receive the love I receive today. In those moments of depression and/or tending to my complex PTSD symptoms, I find that baking myself a treat and telling myself an affirmation would lift me from a dark state. From there, all I wanted to do was create a resource for myself to go to when times were tough.
I thought about how I grew up with 'meryenda', a light snack before a big meal, and how these small treats were not just a pick-me-up prepping for lunch or dinner - it was also a mental pick-me-up. I also thought about the first Filipino words I was taught at 4 years old: "kain na tayo", translating to "it's time to eat now." Little did I know I would be referring back to these words in my twenties in order to help me mentally process the following: It is time to eat now. It is time to take a break. We are allowed to take a break.
As I result, I created Mindful Indulgence, a small, mental-health-forward baking business that highlights the need to take a break by providing quality, custom baked goods inspired by my Filipinx culture and American upbringing.
These treats are made with time and intention, using quality ingredients I’ve attained from my local grocery stores. There’s a nostalgia connected with each one that has often allowed me to realize a newfound love for myself and many aspects of my life. I hope it adds a little something to that mid-day break.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea on the side.
With love & joy,
Vanessa Balanon-Padilla
