Is all really calm and bright?
finding & protecting your peace this holiday season
The holidays are known for their chaos: shopping, baking, DIYing, bustling through crowds, and visiting with loved ones... Not to mention the expectation that we maintain joyful & present through it all. Even at Carolina Muse, the holidays align with one of our busy seasons—our submission deadline was just this past week, and we'll spend the coming weeks creating our next issue.
All of this chaos can bring excitement, overstimulation, and the overwhelming feeling of, "Is what I'm doing enough?"
To that, the answer is yes. We are all doing enough. Even if we aren't doing much at all. It is important to take a step back and release expectations of productivity, instead sitting with peace & reflection as we wrap up the year. Easier said than done for many of us— myself, included. So, here are some ideas to help us slow down:
-
Practice saying no. If you're too busy, too tired, too overwhelmed, or just don't feel like it would bring you joy, then listen to your body. Being honest with your loved ones and setting boundaries can even inspire them to give themselves grace as well.
-
Block out your calendar. Pick a few hours or days of your week (whatever length of time feels best to you) and mark them off. Use this time for yourself, resetting in a way that works for you, whether that be reading, napping, coloring, taking a bath, or watching a good movie.
-
Try a meditative activity. In addition to some of the activities listed above, you could play an instrument, write in a journal, create art, go for a walk, or follow a mindfulness exercise.
-
Return to the present. When we're busy, we get in our heads and cycle through thoughts about the past or future. If you notice yourself lost in your mind, focus on the space around you and take a few mindful breaths. With each exhale, let go of a concern swirling in your head and instead notice the colors & textures around you.
I hope you're able to find peace during last few weeks of the year. Happy holidays from the Carolina Muse team💫
Support Carolina Artists💝
'Tis the season to support our artists! The holidays may be fueled by consumerism, but where you're spending your money makes a big difference. Rather than purchasing gifts from large corporations, consider shopping small and/or local.
Here are a few of our published creators whose work could make a beautiful gift for your loved ones (or for yourself, we won't judge😉) Click the art to find each artists' corresponding shop:
NC Events 💗
-
Asheville, NC - The Little Crafty - This weekend (Dec. 16 & 17), 12pm-5pm
-
Raleigh, NC - Illuminate Art Walk - Daily, sundown-11pm
-
Wilmington, NC - "It's A Wonderful Life" Screening - Friday, December 22nd, 4pm & 7pm
SC Events 💛
-
Greenville, SC - Indie Craft Parade - Every weekend until Christmas, 11am-5pm (including Friday, Dec. 22nd)
-
Columbia, SC - South Carolina Philharmonic's Home for the Holidays - Thursday, December 21st, 7pm
-
Charleston, SC - PRAY Exhibition: Exploring the Intersection of Spirituality and Expression in Contemporary Art - Friday, January 5th, 7pm
As always, we appreciate your feedback and are receptive to your thoughts & ideas. Please email us or DM us on social media to share.
-
Purchase a print copy of our latest issue or an Arts Jam t-shirt! This is how you can best support our magazine at this time... plus, a print copy could make a great gift!
-
View the online version of our recent issue.
-
Apply for one of our open positions (we're in search of a graphic designer, social media manager, art editor, newsletter writer, and ads manager).
Welcome to Our Monthly Musings
Thank you for subscribing! Your support means the world, and we hope you'll stick around for some monthly musings from our team.
Here's the lowdown: We have creative arts advice for all artistic mediums, local Carolina arts events, and creative inspiration from our talented team. See you next month!
WRITTEN BY
Madison Foster