Emma Rose Greis on Presence

Emma Rose Greis is a PR professional based in New York City. We sat and spoke about her work rhythm, her sensory anchors, and how she stays grounded in an industry that moves so fast.

Rhythm & Reset

Your workday is likely full of movement, meetings, and messaging — what’s one ritual that helps you slow down and reset?

• Lighting a candle at my desk is a small but steady ritual that helps me reset. It creates a break in the day — a way to shift from one mode to another, even if I’m sitting in the same spot.

Is there a moment in your day when you feel most present or clear-headed?

• When I’m running. It’s one of the only times I’m completely unplugged/

What role (if any) does scent play in your wellness routine?

• Scent plays a meaningful role in my routine. Certain fragrances help me mark transitions from work to rest, or to set the tone for focus and creativity. 

Sensory Anchors

Do you associate any particular scents with clarity, calm, or confidence?

• Yes, soft florals and warm, earthy notes like sandalwood or palo santo always help me reset. They make me feel grounded.

Is there a space — in your home, your routine, or your day — that feels like a personal reset button?

• My morning coffee corner. It’s where I start my day slowly,  before my phone starts buzzing or the to-do list takes over. It’s quiet and calming

What are the sensory cues that help you transition out of work mode (lighting, fragrance, music, etc.)?

• Dimming the lights and lighting a candle is my go-to. Sometimes I’ll put on a softer playlist or step outside for a walk, but scent and lighting are the clearest signals to my body that it’s time to unwind.

Presence & Perspective

What helps you stay grounded in an industry that moves so fast?

• I remind myself that meaningful visibility takes time. In PR, it’s easy to get swept up in the pace, but real impact comes from clarity and consistency — not urgency. Running helps reinforce that mindset, it’s about pacing, showing up, and trusting the process.

Do you have a weekly ritual that helps you reconnect with yourself or your intentions?

• Sunday resets are a big part of my routine. I plan my runs, prep meals, and light a candle while organizing my thoughts for the week. It’s a ritual that helps me start a week fresh, with clarity and intention.

What does “mental clarity” feel like to you — and how do you access it?

• It feels like space — like my thoughts are no longer competing for attention. I usually find it through running. Something about the movement and rhythm helps everything settle into place.

Closing Reflection

When you think of stillness, what image comes to mind?

• Early morning light filtering through the window, before the rest of the world wakes up. 

What’s a small ritual you’ve created that no one sees, but that means everything to you?

• The first few moments of a run before I start thinking of my pace or route. It’s quiet, intentional, and just for me. Just presence and motion.