Christina Rasmussen, Co-founder and Head of Content, littlewine.co, London (UK)

Years in the Industry
I have been working in the wine industry for six years. When studying French language and literature at the University of Exeter, I had the opportunity to work abroad in Beaune. Visiting vineyards across the Côte d’Or and tasting site-specific wines fascinated me; I went on to write my university thesis on wine’s place in Medieval France and the role of monks in shaping modern day wine culture.
 
After completing my studies, I went on to work for Westbury Communications, managing many campaigns to help wine regions and companies to understand and develop their place in the UK market. At the same time, I completed my WSET Level 3 and commenced my Diploma (which I am still undertaking).
 
Since I was very young, I had always hoped that I would one day become a full-time writer. In 2018, I wrote two chapters for Lonely Planet’s Wine Trails: US & Canada, which was an honour for me. I cofounded a new wine platform called LITTLEWINE, which I launched together with my business partner, Daniela Pillhofer, in April 2020.
 
My Biggest Challenge to Wellness:
Tom Lubbe of Domaine Matassa in the Roussillon once called wine an “energy tonic.” I really do believe that wine sparks positive energy and unites us in our joint mission to better comprehend agriculture and the liquid in the glass.
 
However, there remain challenges within the industry. I like to think that sexism in the wine trade is largely a thing of the past, but from time to time I overhear nasty remarks. I have also been the subject of vicious rumours, I have experienced harassment more than once, and most recently I have also faced anonymous bullying. As somebody who is only 28, and as someone who always tries to spread and promote kindness, it can leave a dark cloud hanging over my head.
 
I struggled from depression when I was 23, so I know first-hand that sometimes it is impossible to just get on with your life. Back then, I took medication and saw a therapist, and if anybody comes to me in an unhappy place, I always urge them to book an appointment. We should actively fight any stigma surrounding mental health. Three years of practicing meditation and yoga have definitely helped my mind to slow down and compartmentalise the good from the bad.
 
I was also diagnosed with adult ADHD in 2018, which brought me great relief, as I was able to read and to learn about my condition, and how better to approach and handle it.
 
How I Keep It Together To Stay Well:
I find that when I am exhausted, my physical and mental health suffers. It is my personal duty to ensure I don’t let this happen. This means sometimes saying no to plans, which is something I used to find extremely difficult but which I am learning to practice. My business partner and I are also flexible on our working hours, which helps to ensure we have a healthier work-life balance.
 
I practice yoga regularly, and I love dynamic spinning classes too – nothing feels better than pedalling while when my instructor blasts out Disco music and sings at the top of her voice on the microphone. Although I’m sweaty and out of breath, it always makes me laugh, and that’s the point for me - exercise should be FUN. I would never be able to stick to a punishing gym routine.
 
I have a pet chinchilla, Elvis, who I adore. If I’m ever feeling down, he seems to know instinctively and comes to sit on my lap. Animals have an incredible sensitivity to emotion, and I must admit I sometimes prefer his company to human company.
 
My recent newfound hobby during corona lockdown has been flower identification. I have an app on my phone called PictureThis AI and it is astonishingly smart. I hunt for new flowers and plants on my daily walk and have started a collection of discoveries. It helps me to clear my mind.
 
Having a personal connection to nature is something very dear to me, and simple actions like stargazing or touching the earth with my hands and bare feet helps me to feel connected and to calm down. Most importantly, I try to always remember to be mindful and patient, both with myself and with others. A little act or word of kindness goes a long way.

You can connect with Christina on Instagram @christinarasmussen_ or online at littlewine.co