Between the frenzied rush of everyday life and the constant pull of our digital devices is something many of us have lost touch with: ourselves. Laura Rubin has built her life's work around helping people find their way back. Not through expensive wellness protocols or just-out-of-reach self-improvement systems, but through the surprisingly transformative act of putting pen to paper.
As the founder of AllSwell, author of The Big Unlock: Liberate Your Creativity Through Mindful Journaling, and a sought-after creativity coach and speaker, Laura refers to herself as “an evangelist for putting pen to paper.” As such, she’s spent more than a decade helping people tap into their innate wisdom through mindful journaling.
What began as a simple phrase scribbled after a beachside surf check—”swell or no swell, all's well"—grew into a movement that includes thoughtfully designed journals, immersive workshops, one-on-one coaching, and her nonprofit initiative, EndsWell, which brings guided journaling practices to underserved communities.
At the heart of it all is Laura's belief that creativity, clarity, and healing already exist within us. That philosophy resonates deeply with us at KNESKO. Just as our skincare rituals invite moments of presence, restoration, and energetic renewal, Laura's approach reminds us that true wellness extends beyond the surface.
We sat down with Laura to talk about the power of mindful journaling, overcoming creative blocks, cultivating resilience, and why one blank page might be the most powerful wellness tool you already own.
KNESKO: Tell us a little about yourself.
Laura Rubin: I am a journaling expert, a creative coach, and speaker. And I’m also the recent author of The Big Unlock: Liberate Your Creativity Through Mindful Journaling. I like to think of myself as an evangelist for putting pen to paper.
What, exactly, is ‘mindful journaling?’
Far from “Dear Diary” connotations, mindful journaling is intentional. Free-form writing is valuable, of course. But using some structure, such as prompts to support desired outcomes, can make the practice even more effective.
What's the most rewarding aspect of your career?
Witnessing people come home to their creativity, their own wisdom, on the page.
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How did you learn about KNESKO, and how would you describe your experience in one word?
My friend and women’s health coach, Celia Chen, introduced me to the brand and your collagen face masks. I loved that the mask gave me the opportunity to rest, lie down, and recharge, as well as take care of my skin. For that reason, if I had to choose just one word to describe my journey with KNESKO it’d be “soothing.”
On that note, what’s your approach to skincare in general?
My skin isn't just the foundation of what I project to the world. It's also an organ which shows me when things are off and when I am in good health. And as a breast cancer survivor, I see my skincare as an extension of my overall well-being. Interestingly, I was chronically dehydrated and didn't know it until I switched my skincare. Now I make sure to get enough hydration inside and out.
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“My skin isn't just the foundation of what I project to the world. It's also an organ which shows me when things are off and when I am in good health.” — Laura Rubin, Founder of AllSwell
What was a hurdle you had to overcome in your career journey? How did you move past it?
I needed to release the paradigm of bigger-is-always-better when it came to business. Slower, more intentional growth—and keeping the chassis light—translates to agility and longevity.
What advice would you give to someone who's trying to figure out their career path?
Journal your way there. That's how I have made every major business decision in my career. Of course, I get input from my wonderful mentors, but ultimately the choices have been my own, and the answers you are seeking are waiting for you on the page. Also, there’s no shame in working for someone else in the field first, if you can. Get paid to learn, get paid to make mistakes. Then you'll be better equipped to do your own thing.
How do you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine?
Creativity is my go-to form of wellness and mindfulness.
What is your go-to affirmation or positive visualization in your life?
I really love this quote from Mary Oliver: "Attention is the beginning of devotion." It serves as a reminder for me to focus my time and attention toward the things that matter most to me, rather than getting caught up in the daily, never-ending tug of the to-do list.
Thank you for taking time with us today!
It was a pleasure.
To learn more about Laura and AllSwell, follow along on Instagram and explore her offerings. To further hone your journaling craft—or to perhaps reawaken or develop the art—check out her new book, The Big Unlock: Liberate Your Creativity Through Mindful Journaling.
