When life's trail ends before an impenetrable bog, do you turn back, wade through the muck, or find a way to dance across the surface? In this episode, host Jodi Rose Gonzales explores the art of navigating life's challenges with grace and intention. Using creative practices, neuroscience research, a powerful case study, and an art journal prompt, you'll discover how art-making can transform overwhelming obstacles into opportunities for resilience while moving you forward with creativity and intention.
Three Key Takeaways:
- Your Brain Can Choose Between Tunnel Vision and Expanded Awareness When overwhelmed, your brain defaults to "negativity bias," fixating on obstacles.
- Every Experience Becomes a Tool for Navigation Like collecting materials from different ecosystems, your life experiences—even challenging ones—provide essential resources for future obstacles.
- Look for Stepping Stones, Not Leaps Instead of trying to cross life's entire bog at once, focus on moving from one stable point to the next.
Living Art Journal Prompt:
Create your own "Swamping Navigation Kit" by collecting 5-7 natural objects outdoors, arranging them mindfully, and engaging in dialogue with your assemblage about current life challenges and potential pathways forward.
Reflection Questions:
- What surprised you about the wisdom that emerged?
- Which suggested actions feel most immediately doable?
- How might you remember these insights when feeling bogged down?
- What would approaching challenges with "swamping consciousness" look like?
Resources:
iROSE Society: https://www.jodirosestudio.com/society
Marsh Muse: https://www.jodirosestudio.com/prints
Living Art Journal Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ4mYsKJGSA
References:
- Fredrickson, B. L. (2013). Positivity: Top-Notch Research Reveals the Upward Spiral That Will Change Your Life.
- Hanson, R. (2018). Resilient: How to Grow an Unshakable Core of Calm, Strength and Happiness.
- Masten, A. S. (2014). Ordinary Magic: Resilience in Development.
- Neff, K. (2021). Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive.
Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life.
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