How often do you ponder something as universal as the experience of pain? The concept of enduring pain has become so commonplace that many have grown desensitised to it. When I sat down to write this blog today, I pulled out a dictionary to explore the literal definition of pain. What is pain? As per the dictionary, it is a generalised or localised unpleasant bodily sensation that causes mild to significant discomfort and emotional distress. This definition of pain made two things clear- first, that pain can cause bodily discomfort and second, that pain can also lead to emotional distress. But one thing that the dictionary missed out on was that pain is inevitable.
‘Pain is inevitable; suffering is optional’
This quote deeply resonates with Granimals, a company on a mission to make the whole world pain-free. In a world where chronic pain affects millions of people, Granimals has embarked on a journey to free people of pain and limitations and also educate, relate to, and understand the emotional turmoils a person goes through as they are recovering. There is nothing more frustrating for a human than to experience limitations in their ability to move freely or to do activities they love.
Three childhood best friends, Aameen Goyal, Sidharth Uniyal, and Rochan Kakar, decided to establish the first D2C mindset-led well-being company after undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery and experiencing poor rehabilitation. Granimals was born with a mission to be dedicated to educating and assisting people in living a life free of pain, injuries, and limitations. We often hear about groups of friends deciding to start a business, perhaps after a night of drinking or during an emotional intervention, leading them to quit their day jobs. However, the story of Granimals is unique as it was born out of a mission to help people who go through different challenges of injury rehabilitation. Read more.
Aameen Goyal, Rochan Kakar, and Sidharth Uniyal founded Granimals in 2021, but their journey began long before that. It all started in 2008 when Rochan and Aameen became teammates through their shared passion for football, a sport they both dreamed of pursuing professionally. During a selection match for nationals, Rochan was the first of the trio to tear his ACL. Aameen, rushing to Rochan’s side with a block of ice, had no idea he was also scripting their future. Not long after, Aameen tore his ACL while playing for Greensboro College in NC, USA, followed by Sidharth. Between the ages of 18 and 23, the three friends underwent a total of eight surgeries.
In 2018, faced with the harsh financial realities of playing football in India, Rochan and Sidharth decided to pursue different careers. Despite their new professional paths, the three of them were united in their dissatisfaction with the prevailing rehabilitation landscape. The innovation in the field seemed stagnant, and there was a lack of discussion about improving injury rehabilitation. When COVID-19 struck, they considered launching a startup after noticing a lack of efforts to improve rehabilitation standards. Their shared experiences and frustrations eventually sparked the idea to create a revolutionary solution. Thus, the concept of the world's first mindset-led digital injury rehabilitation platform was born. Together, Aameen, Rochan, and Sidharth leveraged their personal journeys and professional insights to establish a platform that not only addresses the physical aspects of recovery but also empowers individuals with the mindset needed to overcome their challenges and reclaim their lives.
Since the co-founders themselves have shared a history of recovery from life-changing injuries, they understood what it truly felt like when someone goes through such an injury. Recovering from an ACL tear, for instance, often requires relearning fundamental movements like walking. Imagine the emotional and physical toll it takes on a person when they must rely on others for even the most mundane activities. The pain is already intense, and the frustration and isolation that accompany the recovery process can be overwhelming.
With a mission to transform this experience, Granimals not only customises rehabilitation programs to meet each individual’s unique needs but also places a strong emphasis on cultivating a positive mindset throughout the process. The name 'Granimal' stands for 'greater animal,' symbolising a person who chooses to emerge stronger and better from their current challenges. A true Granimal leads by example, demonstrating resilience and determination and inspiring others with their journey. At Granimals, we empower people to become Granimals- individuals who rise above their circumstances with strength and optimism, a role model who exemplifies resilience.
Three of the most important aspects of Granimals are educational and relatable content, a personalised rehabilitation approach, and mindset-led programs. Granimals has discovered that informing people that their injuries do not have to define or limit their lives can ignite hope in those who have given up.
Education is a cornerstone of Granimals' mission. The content they share on their website and social media focuses on when and how to start a journey to a fitter and more active life. By breaking down complex exercises into simpler, approachable steps, they have made a significant impact. This approach has resonated with many, helping them realise that recovery and a return to an active lifestyle are within their reach. Today, they have a cumulative following of over 1 million Granimals and have helped over 9,000 customers escape pain and limitations.
By instilling the belief that anyone can overcome injuries and achieve their goals, Granimals strongly emphasises encouraging a positive and resilient mindset. The impact of Granimals’ approach is evident in the countless success stories of their clients. Individuals who once struggled with debilitating pain are now leading active, fulfilling lives.
Here are some examples that truly depict what it means to be a Granimal:
1- True Story: How I Returned to Dancing After an MCL Injury
2- How I Run Stronger Than Ever After a Spinal Arthritis Diagnosis in My 60s.
3- Overcoming the fear of working out after an ACL injury.
Granimals foster a community where individuals can share their experiences and support each other. Today, some of the most prominent members of Granimals are people who have been through life-changing adversities and have come out stronger than ever. It is a mix of people who want to get better every day and never stop.
Take a look at some of the real-life changing experiences:
‘My experience with Granimals has been exceptional. I joined the program for knee rehab due to a medial meniscus tear, uncertain about surgery. After 12 weeks of dedicated effort, I've noticed remarkable improvements in strength, balance, and overall leg stability. With nine months remaining in the program, I'm confident I made the right choice with Granimals and look forward to returning to sports. The support from the Granimals team has been outstanding. Ms Rutuja is my trainer, and I receive effective personalised workouts on time. I also receive all the needed guidance through calls and messages.’
- Jaydeep Gorasiya
‘I've been enrolled in the Granimals rehab program for the past two months—an online program I began following a medial meniscus tear surgery seven months ago—and it has been an incredibly positive experience. I'm thrilled with the progress I've made in terms of stability and strength. The workouts are customised weekly to reflect my progress and the required intensity. The trainers and dietitians consistently follow up with me each week to track my progress and adjust the workouts accordingly.’
- Sai Dinesh Bijam
Life throws curve balls, sometimes gentle and sometimes shattering fastballs. It’s a silent battle fought in the darkest of days. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory against the shadow of doubts and fear. It's the wobbly legs that find their footing, the broken wings that mend and take flight anew. The moment you decide that you do not wish to live a limited life and you do something to rise above it all, you become a Granimal. For a Granimal, every obstacle becomes a stepping stone to escape moments of despair to not only rebuild themself but also to inspire those around them to find their own courage. True power lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall. So let your scars remind you that even the deepest wounds can heal and reveal a stronger you!
This silent revolution led by Granimals for pain relief offers hope to people who are struggling to overcome the arduous obstacles they face in life. It not only empowers them to take an active role in their recovery but also helps them maintain this positive mindset while doing any other activity. By focusing on a holistic, personalised approach, Granimals is making a significant difference. Join Granimals’ community today and choose to face the adversities of your life head-on!
Book a consultation with our experts now to get started
