Wellness, Intention, and Art

Wellness, Intention, and Art 

I know winter begins in December, but I never fully notice it until January hits and all the holiday season excitement is gone and all that is left is the cold and spring seems so far away. Sometimes I welcome the calm after the storm feeling, but I also tend to resist it. We are after all a society of doers and achievers and I do love doing and achieving. But winter seems to be a time that asks us to slow down. This year I hope to fully listen to that message, as my body and mind need a good rest before another busy year begins.

As a landscape painter, I draw most of my inspiration from the natural world around me and feel a deep connection to the earth. If you pay attention to what’s happening around us now, you’ll see many plants are in a season of necessary dormancy. So I’m taking a cue from nature and believing that honoring this season by dedicating more time for rest and recovery will only benefit me later on.

I always take some time at the beginning of the year to look at the year that has just passed and plan the year ahead. I don’t make resolutions; instead I like to think about my intentions - what I want to stop doing, keep doing, and start doing as I move forward. As last year was a year of major growth, I have had a lot to think about. I want to make sure I am taking care of myself and doing what I can to impact my community and world in a positive way through personal decisions as well as the decisions I make for my business.

Upcoming Inspiration

Look for a new series release in February, a monthly blog with color and inspiration, lots of painting and process videos on Instagram, and a studio clear-out sale at the end of January.

Let me Suggest...

Please note* When I share a list of suggested readings, listenings, watchings, activities, etc. that I recommend, they're simply things that I have utilized myself and found helpful (no kickbacks for me). I’ll be suggesting podcasts, music, books, and other ideas for how to stay present throughout the year.

• A Gentle Workout Routine
  • Yoga may not seem like rest, but if you are someone who works out on a regular basis, practicing yoga in a warm house feels so comforting compared to being outside and sweating – don’t get me wrong, I’m doing both this year! I keep up my weekly hikes even in the winter months, but yoga is a welcome treat especially when I don’t feel like facing the cold. And let’s be real, I live in Georgia, so it’s not that cold. I use Yoga with Adrienne whose free videos you can find on YouTube. She also has a great 30 day plan she has done for the past few years which starts at the beginning of January.
• Self-Care Soak
  • I recently purchased an Immune Boost soak from a favorite bath and body brand, LuLa Naturals. I am a fan of the healing benefits of a bath already, but especially during the winter months. I love that this bath includes antioxidants and vitamin C!
• Herbal Remedies
  • I’ve been a user of Hearth and Moon products for a couple of years now. I love the Flower Face oil and recently started taking the Allergy Tonic and Elderflower Extract and am already a fan. If you’re reading this as I’m posting it (January 14, 2021), this shop is having a big sale! So grab up some goodies. Also, the store owner has plans to teach her apothecary skills in the upcoming year, so stay tuned to be your own herbalist! I’ll see you in a class!
• Listen to the Unlocking Us podcast with Brené Brown
  • Oh my gosh! If you’re not listening yet, you’re missing out! Good thing they are all available, so you can catch up! If you have any activities that leave your brain with room to think (I listen while I paint), turn this podcast on. It has seriously made me feel good and connected during the strangest year ever.

Have a restful winter season!