With only a week till Christmas, I wonder how you are traveling? Are you, like many, feeling rushed and stressed, with lists of things to buy and do, piling up around you? Or are you feeling relaxed, looking forward to a holiday or a period without the normal pressures of everyday life?
Every year I vow to be more reflective leading up to Christmas, to prioritise renewal and connection with myself, nature and my loved ones. My longing is to soften back into self-compassion and trust, rather than push myself to meet goals or expectations that aren’t imperative. I want to embrace joy and contentment, allowing myself the space to rest and restore.
What works for me is to sink deeply into nature, to adopt an attitude of gentleness towards myself and to play more. As I slow down and notice the frolicking of my dogs on the bush track, the tuneful warbling of the magpies and the crunch of my boots, I begin to sense the movements of my own spirit. I begin to feel both present and held. The troubles or demands of the day seem to fall away and peace pervades, even if only for a little while.
This is like a reboot of both, my head and my heart. As I reconnect with my values and sense of purpose I am reminded that I am and have enough and that I can rest. Anxious striving ceases and I experience renewed energy and calm focus. My body feels lighter, my curiosity and playfulness pique.
I wonder if any of this resonates with you? What do you do to cultivate joy, to nurture rest and restore? How do you recharge and reboot your system as Christmas arrives and we look towards a new year? I’d love you to share your thoughts with me.
One of my hopes for 2024 is that we travel this path together. As I immerse in the landscape, whether here in the Blue Mountains, the Red Centre, Capertee or elsewhere, I invite you also to journey into connection with nature, to explore your relationship with this ancient land, and to notice what arises.
If this strikes a chord with you, I’d love to play a part. Reach out to me by email or phone as I’d love to chat with you and see how I may help.
Finally, I want to acknowledge for your support, encouragement and patronage over the year. While being an artist may be solitary at times, with you, my tribe, in my corner, I feel companioned and appreciated. So thank you!
Please scroll down if you are curious about workshops and events happening next year.
Looking ahead to 2024, after my ‘pilgrimage’ to the Red Centre to paint, I am excited to offer a painting retreat, in the Capertee Valley over the long weekend in October. This will be a fantastic opportunity for you to develop outdoor painting skills in a uniquely beautiful part of our world. The 4-day retreat will include 7 painting tutorials on plein air painting, private feedback sessions, optional guided bushwalks, yoga and meditation, delicious morning & afternoon teas each day, and lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Places are limited, so secure your spot with a deposit now.
As autumn arrives I consider what I may experience as I paint in the vast, dry landscape of the desert.