How nature influences Pia Loyola Whitesell's many passions

How nature influences Pia Loyola Whitesell's many passions

Pia Loyola Whitesell is the founder of Macabalm, a skincare line that uses natural ingredients with innovative technology. With a keen focus on sustainable beauty, she's cultivated a committed following through her dedication to quality, ethical practices. Born in Vina del Mar, Chile, Pia emigrated to Australia, then to the US where she now lives with her husband and two sons. Pia is an ardent advocate for social issues. Seamlessly combining her artistic pursuits with a commitment to societal betterment, Pia is driven to make a positive impact on the world. She’s always been a vocal supporter of Koala Eco, and so it was lovely to reconnect and find out how nature influences her many passions in our latest Hour in Nature.

What’s your favourite thing to do in nature?

I really enjoy the practice of "grounding", there is nothing quite like kicking off your shoes and feeling the grass or sand under your feet, it immediately makes me feel calm and centred. 

Describe your connection to nature: what positives does it bring to your life? 

Whether it's jumping off a rock into the ocean (common practice in Sydney) or climbing a tree, there is always something so humbling about the majesty of nature, I feel it really does put everything into perspective. 

What are your fondest memories of spending time in nature?

My boys and I are ocean lovers, we got our scuba certifications on the same day and did our first dive together. One of the most magical moments of my life, the calm and grandness of it down there was something so beautiful to experience together.

Many of us are time-poor and might not get out into nature as much as we’d like. Any suggestions for a quick nature-based pick-me-up? Something sensory, experiential…?

Try to get barefoot in grass / earth everyday! I make my husband take his calls barefoot in the backyard !

← Older Post Newer Post →

Morning, sunshine! What energises you at the beginning of the day?

Morning, sunshine! What energises you at the beginning of the day?

For some, it’s being able to embrace the silence of an early morning and not talking to anyone: no phone switched on until work starts,...

Read more
Where’s the connection to nature?

Where’s the connection to nature?

World Happiness Report 2025    This post mentions topics some may find disturbing.   Earlier this year, the University of Oxford’s Wellbeing Research Centre released...

Read more
Experience the epic country

Experience the epic country

How we’re inspired by Australia    Australia. What an epic country.   While in other parts of the world new landmasses are still being birthed...

Read more
The Sunday Reset - Inspired by Rosalina [Melaleuca ericifolia]

The Sunday Reset - Inspired by Rosalina [Melaleuca ericifolia]

A guide to embracing the new week    Sensual. Earthy. Soothing.  Oh Rosalina! This divine plant is often called the Bush Lavender, thanks to its...

Read more
Helping the blue planet stay blue

Helping the blue planet stay blue

Koala Eco supporting coastal plastic clean-ups   "Surfing is sensual. It's a real-time engagement with the forces of nature, which happen to be echoes of...

Read more
When the needs of the planet are the needs of the person

When the needs of the planet are the needs of the person

Digging into the roots of ecopsychology  ‘In search of a greater sanity, [ecopsychology] begins where many might say sanity leaves off: at the threshold of...

Read more