Studio Journal

Finding the perfect gift can be a challenge, especially when you want to support small businesses and artisans. Limited options for handmade or artisanal gifts often leave you feeling overwhelmed, and there’s always the worry that the gift might not meet expectations in terms of quality. It can be difficult to find high-quality, unique gifts that support small businesses or independent creators. There’s also the fear that your gift might not live up to expectations, leaving you anxious about the recipient’s reaction. Choosing gifts from small businesses and artisans not only ensures a unique and thoughtful present but also supports the values you care about. To alleviate concerns about quality, look for products that are carefully curated and crafted with care. Our paint-by-number and clay-making kits are a great example of this approach. Each kit is meticulously designed and supports small-scale artisans, providing a high-quality, handcrafted experience. By choosing our kits, you’re not only giving a meaningful gift but also supporting a women-run, artisan business that promotes creativity and self-care. All our products are designed and packaged in the USA, ensuring both quality and a personal touch.

As a woman who has owned and operated this art company for over 20 years, I can tell you that the journey has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Each day brings its own set of obstacles, but it’s the support from wonderful people like you that makes it all worthwhile. Your choice to support my women-run, artisan company goes far beyond a simple purchase. It empowers me and my dedicated team, allowing us to pursue our passions and bring our creative visions to life. Each product we create is crafted with care and dedication, and your investment helps us honor traditional techniques and artistry. The impact of your purchase creates a ripple effect that touches many lives. When you buy from us, the support flows down the line—from sustaining my family and employees to maintaining partnerships with other small business owners. This network of support helps local artisans, suppliers, and service providers, rather than contributing to the profits of large corporations. Your support ensures that every transaction helps build a community of individuals who care deeply about their craft and each other. I’m committed to ethical practices and small-scale operations, ensuring that we contribute positively to both the environment and fair labor conditions. Every dollar you spend with us is a powerful investment in our shared values and community. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your impact is deeply felt and greatly appreciated.

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless options for art supplies and tools? You’re not alone. The sheer variety can make it difficult to start a creative project, especially when you’re unsure what you need or where to begin. Ready-made DIY art kits are here to simplify the process and help you dive into creativity without the stress. That's why I designed our all-in-one paint-by-number and clay kits- to eliminate the guesswork. DIY art kits include everything you need—pre-printed canvases, paints, brushes, or clay and tools—so you can skip the confusion and get straight to creating. DIY kits are perfect for anyone who wants to express themselves freely without judgment. They offer a structured approach that guides you through each step, allowing you to enjoy the process without worrying about making mistakes. Plus, they ensure you’re investing your time in an activity that’s both fulfilling and rewarding. By choosing a ready-made DIY art kit, you can bypass the overwhelm and focus on what really matters: enjoying your creative journey.   

Starting a new art practice can be daunting. I remember being terrified of beginning something new and not being good at it. Now, I actually relish the chance to be a beginner. Embracing that messiness and clumsiness means I’m free to explore without pressure. The only way is up from here! If you’re unsure where to start or which project to choose, and if you fear comparing yourself to others, it can feel overwhelming. Embracing a beginner’s mind allows you to accept starting from scratch and to be okay with making mistakes. Here are three ways to embrace this mindset in artmaking: Start Small: Choose simple projects that don’t require a lot of supplies or expertise. This helps you ease into the creative process and build confidence gradually. Celebrate Mistakes: View mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. Each mistake is a step toward improvement and a chance to experiment and grow. Focus on the Process: Shift your focus from the end result to enjoying the creative journey itself. Allow yourself to be messy and clumsy, knowing that this is all part of the fun. Knowing that everyone begins somewhere—and that it's perfectly fine to be imperfect—can take the pressure off and make learning more enjoyable. Our kits are a great way to start. They offer easy-to-follow instructions and encourage regular, enjoyable creative practice, perfect for embracing your journey as a beginner. No go get messy.  That's the whole point, right?

  Even after 20 years as an artist, I still get overwhelmed by the sheer variety of art supplies and the pressure to create something meaningful. Despite my experience, I’ve had moments where I felt unsure of where to start or whether my ideas would amount to anything. This kind of artistic overwhelm can be discouraging, especially when the fear of not being "good enough" sneaks in. I completely understand how challenging it can be to sift through endless options and battle self-doubt. Whether it’s choosing the right paints, brushes, or canvases, or worrying about running out of inspiration, these obstacles can make starting a new project feel like a daunting task. That’s actually why I created Breathe People's meditative art kits—I wanted to offer a solution that bypasses all these frustrations and fears. Here’s how I manage to overcome the overwhelm, and maybe these tips can help you too: Start Small: Begin with simple, manageable projects that need minimal supplies. Basic doodling or coloring can boost your confidence and gently ease you into more complex tasks. Follow Tutorials: Use step-by-step guides or online tutorials to navigate the creative process. I love discovering new techniques from talented artists on IG and Skillshare. These resources provide structure and inspiration, making it easier to get started and stay motivated. Use Ready-Made Kits: Go for all-in-one art kits that include everything you need. This approach takes the guesswork out and gives you a clear path to follow. I designed our paint-by-number and clay-making kits specifically to help overcome artistic overwhelm. Each kit comes with step-by-step instructions, leading you to a beautiful finished piece. But remember, it’s not just about the end result—it’s about enjoying the process, quieting your mind, and connecting with something deeply creative and personal. That’s what it’s all about.

The holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, creating memories, and enjoying the warmth of connection. But for many, the pressure to plan an engaging and unique holiday event can be overwhelming. Finding activities that everyone will enjoy, ensuring meaningful interactions, and making sure the celebration is special can feel like a daunting task. This year, let’s tackle these challenges head-on with a simple, creative solution that promises to make your holiday gathering truly unforgettable. The Challenge: Finding Fresh, Engaging Ideas It’s easy to fall into the trap of repeating the same holiday activities year after year. Whether it’s watching the same movies, exchanging gifts, or simply sharing a meal, the familiarity can sometimes make the holiday feel predictable and even dull. The desire to do something different—something that will leave a lasting impression—can leave you scrambling for new ideas at the last minute. The Goal: Creating Fun and Meaningful Memories What we all truly seek during the holidays is to create memories that will be cherished for years to come. We want to foster moments that bring everyone together, regardless of age or interests. These moments are the ones that strengthen bonds and create a sense of unity, filling our hearts with warmth and joy. The Concern: Avoiding a Dull or Unmemorable Event One of the biggest worries when planning a holiday event is that it will fall flat. There’s nothing worse than seeing your guests disengaged or uninterested, especially when you’ve put so much effort into the gathering. The fear of hosting a forgettable event can make the whole process feel more stressful than joyful. The Solution: Host a Holiday Art Party with Our Themed Kits This holiday season, why not try something new and exciting? Hosting a holiday art party with our holiday-themed paint-by-number and clay-making kits is the perfect way to bring creativity and connection into your celebration. Our kits are designed for all ages and skill levels, making them an inclusive activity that everyone can enjoy. Not only do these kits provide a fun and engaging way to spend time together, but they also include conversation cards to help get the connections flowing. Imagine your loved ones gathered around, creating beautiful art while sharing stories, laughter, and meaningful conversations. It’s an experience that transforms a typical holiday gathering into a unique event that everyone will remember. Ready to Make This Holiday Unforgettable? If you’re looking to create lasting memories this holiday season, consider hosting a holiday art party with one of our clay-making kits. These kits provide everything you need to spark creativity, foster connection, and ensure your gathering is both fun and memorable. Plus, they’re easy to use, with step-by-step instructions that make it simple for anyone to lead the activity. Don’t let the holidays pass by without creating those special moments. Click [here] to purchase one of our clay kits today and make your holiday celebration one to remember. With our kits, you’re not just giving a gift—you’re creating an experience that will be cherished for years to come.

Life can feel like chaos sometimes, can't it? If you're looking for a way to find a bit of calm and tranquility amidst the chaos, I have a wonderful practice to share with you: line art meditation. It's my go-to when I need a quick reset. Let me walk you through what exactly it is and how to do it. What is Line Art Meditation? Line art meditation is a gentle art practice where you synchronize your breathing with drawing lines. It's such a great way to focus your mind, regulate your heart rate, and calm your nervous system. The repetitive motion of drawing lines, combined with mindful breathing, creates a meditative state that brings a dose of relaxation and clarity. Powerful Benefits of Line Art Meditation Calms Heart Rate: When you synchronize your breath with your drawing, you slow down your heart rate, which brings a sense of calm and relaxation. Soothes the Sympathetic Nervous System: This practice can help reduce the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. By calming this system, you can reduce stress and anxiety. Creates Quiet, Peaceful Moments: Line art meditation is simple and structured, meaning it encourages mindfulness and presence, allowing you to find peaceful moments amidst the chaos of daily life. How to Practice Line Art Meditation: A Step-by-Step Guide Step 1: Gather Your Supplies First things first, grab a blank sheet of paper and a pen, pencil, or marker. Find a quiet, comfortable spot where you won’t be disturbed. This is your time.  I like to take a scrap piece of paper I've already painted on, but it's not at all necessary.  A blank sheet will work perfectly. Step 2: Set Your Intention Take a moment to set an intention for your meditation. Maybe you want to find peace, reduce stress, or simply enjoy the process. Hold onto that intention as you begin. Step 3: Begin with Deep Breathing Have a seat somewhere comfortabe and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths—inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Focus on how your breath feels as it enters and leaves your body. Step 4: Start Drawing Lines Open your eyes and begin drawing a simple line on your paper. As you draw, inhale slowly and deeply. When you reach the end of your inhale, pause your drawing. Step 5: Synchronize Breath with Drawing As you exhale, continue drawing the line. The goal is to match the length and speed of your lines with your breath. Inhale, draw; exhale, draw. Keep the lines simple and continuous. Step 6: Maintain Focus and Rhythm Continue this process, keeping a steady rhythm between your breath and your drawing. If your mind starts to wander (which is totally normal!), gently bring your focus back to the act of drawing and your breath. Step 7: Embrace the Process Allow yourself to get lost in the process. There’s no right or wrong way to draw the lines. Focus on the synchronization of breath and movement, not the final product. Step 8: Reflect and Appreciate After a few minutes, or when you feel ready to stop, take a moment to reflect on how you feel. Notice any changes in your mood, heart rate, or stress levels. Appreciate the peaceful moments you’ve created for yourself. Tips for a Successful Line Art Meditation Be Patient: It might take a few sessions to find your rhythm and fully experience the benefits. Create a Routine: Incorporate this practice into your daily or weekly routine for consistent benefits. Experiment: Try different types of lines—straight, curved, wavy—and see what feels most calming for you. Give it a try and see how it feels. Remember, this is your practice, so make it your own. I hope you find as much peace and joy in it as I do. Happy meditating!   If you'd like to try a guided meditation with me, hop over to www.rebeccalaneco.com and sign up for my monthly newsletter.  You'll get a freebie meditation recording in your inbox + additional monthly artistic meditations.  I'd love to see you there! 

If you're anything like me, winding down before bedtime can be quite the challenge You know those persistent thoughts that keep racing through your mind, even when you're trying to rest? It's like a continuous loop of worrying about tomorrow or imagining scenarios that might never happen. That kind of anxiety can significantly disturb a peaceful night's sleep. It can take a toll on your well-being when it becomes a recurring pattern. Here's what I do—I turn to doodling to relax, sift through those lingering unresolved thoughts, and clear my mind before going to bed. With this meditative art practice, you can engage in it for a few minutes or spend an hour or more creating detailed doodles—it's entirely your choice. I hope you find this meditative doodle practice enjoyable. Additionally, if you're interested in exploring more ways to unwind and alleviate anxiety, be sure to subscribe. I offer deeper meditations and art practices crafted specifically to enhance your sleep quality and reduce anxiety.  

Finding time for creativity can feel like a tough challenge, especially when life gets busy. If you’re itching to dive into something artistic but aren’t sure where to start or worry you’re not "good enough," don’t worry—you’re not alone. These fears can hold us back from enjoying the creative side of life. But hey, getting started doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Here are three simple ways to fit creativity into your day: Doodling and Sketching: Grab a pencil and a piece of paper and just start doodling. It’s a no-pressure way to get your creative juices flowing. Sketching simple shapes or patterns is an easy way to dip your toes into art without needing a lot of time or effort. Coloring Books: Adult coloring books are fantastic for relaxing and expressing yourself creatively. They offer detailed designs that you can fill in without worrying about drawing. It’s a perfect way to unwind and have fun with colors. Paint-by-Number Kits: If you’re looking for something super beginner-friendly, our paint-by-number kits are perfect. They come with everything you need—pre-printed canvases, paints, and brushes—plus easy instructions. Even if you only have a few minutes a day, you can create beautiful art and feel great about your progress. Starting small with these activities can help you find time for creativity and enjoy the process. So why not give it a try? Grab one of our paint-by-number kits and start your creative journey today. It’s a fun, stress-free way to make art a regular part of your life.

Keeping up with a creative habit can be challenging. I’ve faced my own struggles with maintaining a regular creative routine. At times, my enthusiasm waned, and fitting art into my busy schedule felt nearly impossible. However, I’ve found a few strategies that really help me stay on track and keep creativity a fulfilling part of my life. Here are some tips I've found to help me maintain a consistent creative practice.  Maybe they can help you too: Set Small Goals: Break your creative practice into small, manageable goals. Even dedicating just 10-15 minutes a day can make a significant difference and help you stay motivated. Create a Routine: Integrate your creative time into your daily or weekly schedule. Treat it like a ritual you can't live without, and find a consistent time that works for you. Find a Friend: Find a creative buddy or join a community. Sharing your progress and connecting with others who share your passion can provide accountability and encouragement. Using these strategies has really helped me keep creativity a regular part of my life. If you’re looking for a way to make this easier, consider trying a paint-by-number or clay-making kit. These kits offer a simple, structured approach to art that might fit nicely into your routine, providing a stress-free way to stay creative.

If you’re new to meditative art, you might be wondering how art and meditation come together to create a calming and creative practice. It’s a beautiful concept, but it can be hard to fully understand how these two elements fit together and where to begin. Let me share a bit about my journey. As a lifelong artist, creative, and meditation guide, I always knew that creativity was healing. However, it wasn’t until my children and I faced a deeply traumatic experience that I truly explored blending art and meditation to ground myself and find calm. I needed a tool to stay steady while navigating a new and unfamiliar world for my family. I discovered that, when done right, combining these practices is incredibly powerful. It helped me quiet my overactive mind, ease my anxiety and fears, and enter a flow state where I could hear my own wise voice amid the noise. One common frustration is grasping how art and meditation work together. You might wonder how creating art can complement meditation and help calm your mind.  The key is to begin with clear, step-by-step guidance that shows how these practices complement each other. Set aside a few minutes each day for both art and meditation. Start by meditating to center yourself before your art session, focusing on the process rather than the outcome. To make trying meditative art easy, we’ve created meditative art kits that merge these practices. These kits include customized meditations, and journaling prompts, making it simple to start and appreciate the benefits of combining meditation with art.     

Art-making has always been one of my favorite ways to connect with the people I care about. There's something special about sitting down together, hands busy with clay or paint, and just talking—sharing stories, memories, or even just quiet moments. It’s in those creative spaces that I’ve felt the closest to my loved ones, finding a deeper connection through the simple act of making something together. That’s why I believe these clay date kits are such a wonderful idea for date night. I’ve found that engaging in a creative activity with someone opens up a whole new level of communication. When you’re working with your hands, it’s like the conversation flows more naturally, and you end up sharing parts of yourself that you might not in a more typical setting. One thing I love about these kits is that they come with conversation starter cards. They’re not just random questions—they’re designed to spark meaningful discussions. When I’ve used them, I’ve found myself learning things about the other person that I didn’t know before, even after years of being together. It’s like the art and the conversation work together to create this really special, shared experience. Your date night doesn’t have to be with a romantic partner—there are so many ways to enjoy a creative evening with the people in your life. Here are some ideas for who you could share a clay date night with:   A Close Friend: Strengthen your friendship with a night of creativity and conversation. A Family Member: Bond with a sibling, parent, or child over a fun and engaging activity. Your Roommate: Break the routine and enjoy a hands-on project together. A Colleague: Get to know a work friend outside the office with a relaxed, creative evening. A Group of Friends: Turn it into a small gathering and enjoy the experience with multiple people.   And don’t worry if you’re new to clay. The kit includes everything you need, with simple instructions that make it easy to create something beautiful together. It’s not about making a masterpiece; it’s about the time you spend together, the laughs, the talks, and the memories you create. For me, that’s what makes these moments so memorable. If this sounds like your kind of date night, sign up for our newsletter and enjoy 15% off this kit or anything in our shop! Let’s make your next date night one to remember.

In our hectic and unpredictable world, it's no wonder our nervous systems often feel out of whack, leading to stress and anxiety. The constant stream of information and responsibilities can leave us feeling frazzled and unbalanced. It's tough to keep up, and sometimes we just need a little help to find our footing again. Guided meditation is a wonderful way to restore that balance. It gently brings our focus back to the present moment, helping us relax and find peace. By concentrating on our breath and letting our minds settle, we can release the stress and tension that builds up throughout the day. Adding nature sounds, like the soothing patter of rain, makes meditation even more effective. Rain sounds mimic the natural rhythms we find comforting, helping to slow our heart rate, lower blood pressure, and calm our minds. I'd love for you to experience these benefits for yourself. Check out our latest guided meditation on the Breathe People Podcast. Take a few minutes to unwind, and see how this simple practice can bring clarity and peace to your day. Listen now at Breathe People Podcast  

Hello there, dear parent! Ready to create an unforgettable art party for your kids and their friends? Welcome to our paint + clay party process – your guide to crafting a magical experience centered on unplugged creativity and excitement. In a world full of screens, we crave activities that offer our children relaxation, hands-on engagement, and a deeper connection to their creativity. The Petite Artisan collection is designed to nurture mental health through authentic, real-life experiences. Let’s dive into our super simple step-by-step guide to host an art party that leaves everyone feeling creative and connected! Step 1: Pick the Perfect Date and Space Choose a date and gather your friends! Opt for a relaxing, spacious area with good natural or overhead lighting where everyone can comfortably paint or play with clay.   Step 2: Set Up Creative Stations Prepare your stations with all the essentials: paint-by-number kits, brushes, water cups, and some snacks and drinks to keep creativity flowing. Make sure kids wear clothes that can get dirty – acrylic paints can be tough to remove! Step 3: Encourage Unleashed Creativity Once everyone arrives and settles in, encourage them to unleash their inner artist. Whether painting or making clay art, the goal is to have fun and be creative! Step 4: Spark Conversations with Question Cards Use the conversation starters below designed to spark meaningful chats. These questions help kids get to know each other better and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Step 5: Kickstart the Conversation As the kids start painting, pick a question to get everyone talking. Whether discussing favorite superheroes or future dreams, these prompts ensure everyone is engaged and connecting. Step 6: Let the Conversation Flow Encourage the kids to open up and share their thoughts, feelings, and dreams as they create. You might discover some surprising things about each other! Step 7: Create and Connect As the party goes on, continue creating and enjoying each other’s company. Remember, the best memories are made when we share and connect organically. If you love this gathering experience, explore more of our creative party kits for kids in our shop! Happy creating!  

Art, especially activities like paint by numbers and clay making, serve as a bridge that connects us to our inner selves and others. In today's digital age, it's so easy to get lost in screens and the constant demands of life. But when we pick up a paintbrush, something magical happens. We disconnect from the noise and reconnect with our childlike creativity, tapping into a source of joy and expression we often neglect as adults.   Gatherings + Connections But the beauty of art goes beyond personal enrichment. It has the power to bring communities together. Hosting an art party isn't just about painting; it's about building connections and fostering a sense of belonging. As friends gather around a table, we share stories, laughter, and support, creating bonds that transcend the strokes of a brush. Studies have shown that art can reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mental well-being and relaxation. When we create a welcoming space  to explore our creativity, art parties become a sanctuary where we can temporarily disconnect from life's demands and simply be in the joy of creation.   How to Host Your own Art Party Let's start by setting the scene—a cozy atmosphere with plenty of art supplies (we've got you covered here) and maybe some snacks and soothing or uplifting music. Encourage guests to let their imagination run wild as they paint and converse, exchanging ideas and inspiration. Consider incorporating a theme or collaborative projects to spark creativity and encourage interaction. Parties don't have to be limited to birthdays and bachelorette celebrations. Some of our favorite parties have been themed around celebrating transitions, whether it's releasing old baggage, celebrating freedom or exploring new beginnings. At the end of the day, hosting an art party is about fostering meaningful connections and creating memorable experiences. So, gather your friends, unleash your inner artist, and let the magic of art bring you closer together.   Ready to host your own party? Explore our collection of paint by number + clay kits and start planning your own art-filled gathering. And if you have any questions about hosting a party, please reach out to us.  We love co-creating a good party and are always here to help!       

Throughout our everyday life we find ourselves in situations where we feel lost, unsettled and deeply anxious.  When we become overwhelmed we can feel restless and frustrated. We struggle to ground ourselves. We find it difficult to still our bodies and minds. We can’t control what life presents us with, we can choose how we respond to whatever life throws at us.   To calm my own anxiety, I turn to the simple practice of meditative art as a means of self-soothing. They've consistently proven effective in helping me navigate my emotions when words alone fell short. This meditative art form through doodling offers an excellent avenue to calm your nervous system, guiding your mind to gently decelerate, encouraging focus on your breath, and fostering a profound sense of presence. If you're grappling with anxiety or find it challenging to quiet your mind, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this doodle practice a shot. I promise you, there's no way to go wrong!  

In the midst of our daily grind, discovering your artistic flow can often feel like something way out of reach. But what if I told you there's a very simple pathway to unlock your creativity? Welcome to the world of guided meditations. Think of it as your compass to navigating creative flow. Guided meditations act as a gentle breeze for your creative spirit.  As you immerse yourself in a meditative state, this sweet little duo sparks your imaginative journey. These meditative sessions calm your mind and ignite your artistic potential. They foster a state of focus, clarity, and inspiration. So, if you've been feeling stumped in your creative projects, consider diving into a simple guided meditation, like the one below. You'll be amazed at how effortlessly you'll find your artistic flow.       Unlock Inner Peace with Breathe people's Meditative Art Kits Experience the ultimate in relaxation with our meditative painting kits, complete with audio meditations to enhance your painting experience. With everything you need to create a beautiful piece of art and promote mental well-being, our kits are the perfect combination of creativity and tranquility. Try it out for yourself and discover the transformative power of art and meditation today!   Shop Now  

  In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced lives, the elusive promise of a good night's sleep often feels like chasing a unicorn. But what if I told you that the path to restorative sleep might just be a guided journey away? Enter Yoga Nidra guided meditations, your ticket to the land of ZZZs. Yoga Nidra is like a lullaby for your sympathetic nervous system. Coupled with the gentle pitter-patter of raindrops, it's a match made in slumber heaven. As you slip into a meditative state, this dynamic duo works its magic. Not only do they coax your body into a deep sleep, but they also play cupid with your brain chemistry. Serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin – the dream team of feel-good hormones – are released in abundance. So, those pesky insomnia and sleep problems? They don't stand a chance. So, next time you're tossing and turning, consider cozying up to a Yoga Nidra guided meditation with rain sounds. Your sympathetic nervous system will thank you, and you'll be well on your way to the sweet embrace of restorative sleep.     Unlock Inner Peace with Breathe people's Meditative Art Kits Experience the ultimate in relaxation with our meditative painting kits, complete with audio meditations to enhance your painting experience. With everything you need to create a beautiful piece of art and promote mental well-being, our kits are the perfect combination of creativity and tranquility. Try it out for yourself and discover the transformative power of art and meditation today!  

Let's talk about something as vital as your morning coffee but far more underrated – your nervous system. Often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of life, the nervous system serves as the body's intricate web of electrical connections. It's the unsung hero of your body, responsible for transmitting signals faster than your instagram feed. Information is zapped between your brain and the rest of your body in a nanosecond. A healthy nervous system is like a high-speed fiber optic cable, while an unhealthy one is like a dial-up connection from the '90s. It's so important to make sure we're caring for our nervous system. Our day to day lives have never been more stressful. Whether we look for it or not, we constantly have an overload of information coming at us from every angle. Add to that layers pressure in a hundred flavors, and our lives end up way our of balance.  Picture guided meditation as your personal guru for the nervous system. It calms the electrical chaos, promoting inner peace and balance. Not to mention enhanced focus, boosted immunity and a sense of calm you can't pay for.  Meditation is the reboot your nervous system needs to put it back into it's optimal setting. So, in this fast-paced world, take a moment to slow down, embrace self care and pamper your nervous system.  This meditation will help do the trick.    

In today's fast-paced world, the quest for tranquility and inner peace has never been more important. Anxiety can often disrupt our lives and leave us completely deplete of serenity. While meditation is a well-known avenue to calm the mind, another impressive path to soothing anxiety is through therapeutic artmaking. Creative expression has the power to quieten the restlessness within and guide us toward peace. In this blog post, we'll explore three therapeutic art techniques that I personally love, and that hold the key to unlocking a calmer, more centered self.   1. Breath-inspired Painting:  Breath-inspired painting is a unique therapeutic art technique that blends deep mindfulness with creation.In this practice your breath becomes the brush stroke. Begin by closing your eyes and taking a few conscious breaths, allowing your mind to settle. Then, with a gentle exhale, release a small amount of paint onto the canvas. As you inhale, use your breath to guide the paint's movement, creating organic patterns that mirror the rise and fall of your breath. This mindful and rhythmic process not only anchors you in the present moment but also translates your inner state onto the paper. The resulting artwork becomes a visual testament to the calming power of your breath and a reminder that even in chaos, there exists a serene rhythm.   2. Expressive Art Journaling: Journaling is well-recognized for its cathartic effects on emotional well-being. When merged with an artistic expression, journaling transforms into a potent tool to navigate anxiety. This technique requires zero artistic skill; instead, it encourages you to freely channel your feelings onto paper using colors, shapes, and images.  This process is a simple, tangible outlet for pent-up emotions, providing clarity and often revealing insights that can lead to a deeper understanding of your anxieties.     3. Flowing Zentangle Patterns (Mindful Doodles):  Zentangle is a method of creating intricate and repetitive patterns that induce a state of mindfulness akin to meditation. Begin with a blank piece of paper and a fine-tip pen. Gradually draw intricate patterns, allowing your hand to move without planning or overthinking. The focus required to create these patterns directs your attention away from anxious thoughts, immersing you in the gentle flow of the process. The repetitive feel of Zentangle induces a state of relaxation, and allows your mind to enter a tranquil realm. The end result is your own masterpiece of intricate details – a testament to your ability to find serenity through the simple act of drawing.     By trying out these different therapeutic art techniques, you're starting a journey of creative exploration that can help calm your anxiety and make you feel more connected with yourself. Every line you draw, every breath you take, and every piece you add to your collage come together to create a picture of your well-being, showing how strong and peaceful you can be.