Chapter 1: The Influence of Venus

As a Libra rising, I find myself deeply aligned with the essence of Venus. This celestial body embodies beauty, love, art, and harmony, guiding us towards appreciating life’s simple joys. For instance, a serene afternoon spent with a loved one can be a profound source of happiness.

Being a follower of Venus, I strive to cultivate beauty in my surroundings. I actively seek healthy pleasures and dedicate my time to tranquil pursuits such as sketching, reading, or taking peaceful walks in nature.

Inspiration often comes from the words of Thoreau, who famously said, “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to confront only the essential facts of life, and to see if I could learn what it had to teach me.” His journey into the woods taught him that simplicity is key to a fulfilling life.

During my younger years, I had ample opportunities to indulge in solitude and silence, mastering the art of self-care. However, when I turned 28 and acquired my first computer, followed by my first mobile phone at 32, everything changed.

While I’m not against technology and appreciate its conveniences, I yearn for the solitude of the past. I often reminisce about the days when I could be unreachable by phone or message, enjoying long, lazy mornings with just the Sunday newspaper for company.

Today, the constant demand to respond to messaging apps—be it Slack, Breakroom, or texts—can feel overwhelming. Despite my deep affection for my communities—my women’s art groups, colleagues at the Honey shop, yoga practitioners, friends, and family—I sometimes find the need to disconnect from daily interactions.

Over the past three decades, the expectation for constant availability has grown. Will we ever go back to valuing the moment itself over its social media portrayal?

To reclaim my sense of presence, I’m taking a temporary retreat, prioritizing meditation, artistic expression, and reading. This break doesn’t need to be lengthy; it’s about cherishing the quality of time spent in the present rather than the length.

Experiencing time in the present can feel expansive, while the pressure to share and seek feedback often feels constricted and anxious.

When I embrace solitude and uphold my metaphorical "Do Not Disturb" sign, I return to my community rejuvenated and invigorated. Setting boundaries around pleasurable activities is crucial for self-care.

As human beings, there are times when we simply need to pause and exist. Thank you for joining me on this journey! As a mental health advocate and artist, I share creative practices designed to foster emotional well-being and personal growth.

To explore more tools for creativity and emotional engagement, download my free guidebook, 20 Journaling Prompts for Working with Emotions.

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Chapter 2: The Art of Rest

In this insightful video, Claudia Hammond delves into the significance of rest in our busy lives, offering valuable perspectives on how to incorporate moments of rest effectively.

Claudia Hammond discusses the transformative power of rest and shares practical tips on how to embrace it in our daily routines, encouraging a more balanced lifestyle.