A strong connection to the Earth and nature helped Britta Willms survive, in spite of the hardship she faced as a child. Born and raised in Germany, Willms remembers finding solace in forested areas and the outdoors. “Until I was an adult, I didn’t realize how much of my childhood I forgot as a coping mechanism to deal with the various forms of abuse I experienced,” relays Willms. “I was drawn to the peace I felt surrounded by in nature and would go walking in the woods for hours.”

Nature’s peace and tranquility are the fibers that have held Willms’ life together, even during tattered times. “All my life, I just wanted to be truly loved, having not experienced genuine love from my mother,” she explains. “I lacked self-confidence as a young woman,” notes Willms. “But coming to the United States at the age of 18, to go to college, saved my life.”

“My journey was a winding path, through times of darkness and light, until I arrived in Lancaster County,” says Willms. When asked what brought her to the area, Willms replied, “God! I have incredible faith and follow my inner guidance. I have experienced way too many miracles to doubt.”

Following her inner guidance inspired her to create Your Inner Light, a retail and gift shop that is filled with the peaceful feeling of coming home. She offers natural health consultations, reiki for humans and animals and various classes and workshops in the space. “There’s a feeling of family here because our customers become more like friends,” shares Willms.

Hand-picked crystals and tumbled stones of superior quality are sold at the store, where Willms diligently researches products to feature that will suit the needs of the customers she holds so dear. Other specialty items include Himalayan salt lamps, incense, herbs, essential oils, jewelry, tapestries, statuaries, oracle cards, singing bowls, dream catchers, clothing and Raku pottery. She asks for, and listens to, customer feedback, and values the fact that the shop is known for excellent quality, low prices and extraordinary customer service.

A customer––and friend––who has known Willms since she first opened her shop eight years ago shares, "Britta has come a long way and in one word describes herself as ‘grateful!’ She has a big heart and will do anything for anybody, and you will think you have known her your whole life by the time you leave the shop. You will feel her unconditional love.”

The welcoming feeling of Your Inner Light spreads joy and provides solace. Whoever walks through the door, Willms helps, shining light and love, and demonstrating strength and courage. “It is important to keep in one’s heart that everyone is special.”

Your Inner Light is located at 1606 Rothsville Road, in Lititz. For more information, call 717-618-1672, email [email protected] or visit YourInnerLight.net.

Gisele Rinaldi Siebold is a contributing writer to Natural Awakenings Lancaster-Berks edition. Connect with her at [email protected].