As we turn the page to a new year, I am thrilled to share some transformative updates coming to our studio in 2025. I started talking about this in my last blog post, which seems like a long time ago. It was very quiet here for months since life has a way of reminding us to slow down, breathe, and refocus. This past year, I’ve felt that deeply—balancing creativity, business, and personal well-being.
The work that excited me so much over the past years felt stagnant and draining for months, and I realized it might be time for a shift in my personal and professional life. You deserve my full attention and creativity, and I deserve some time off to refocus on my goals, values, and personal priorities.
Was this burnout? I did some research, and this is what it looks like:
🔥 Signs of Burnout:
- Emotional Exhaustion: Even after a day off, you feel drained.
- Resentment Toward Your Work: You start resenting clients, projects, or even the business itself.
- Physical Symptoms: Headaches, lack of sleep, fatigue, or a general sense of being run-down.
- You’ve Lost the ‘Why’: You can’t remember why you started this business in the first place.
Why It Happens:
Burnout often comes from operating in survival mode for too long—overbooking yourself, undervaluing your time, or trying to wear too many hats. When your creative or emotional bank is constantly overdrawn, sustaining passion and energy is impossible.
That hit me! After taking time to pause and breathe, the idea of “what’s next” now isn’t so vague anymore – it’s slowly forming into something actionable. Sometimes, clarity comes from stillness. I’m still learning to put myself before others every now and then to work on my vision.
A Journey of Personal Healing
My journey into the healing arts began with a personal quest for peace amidst the chaos of life. Like many of you, the demands of professional and family responsibilities left me searching for ways to reconnect with myself. This quest led me to explore different forms of art therapy, such as journaling, painting, sound healing, the meditative practice of Zentangle art, and more. I explored the ones that gave me peace and joy in more detail, which led me to become a certified Master Sound Healer and a Certified Zentangle Teacher (CZT). I now have the tools and a heartfelt desire to share these therapeutic arts with you.
Introducing Sound Journeys
In 2025, ArtCafe Studios will introduce Sound Journeys, aka Sound Baths, an immersive experience designed to restore your inner balance through the power of sound. These sessions aim to reduce stress, enhance mental clarity, and foster a deep sense of well-being using various instruments, such as singing bowls, gongs, and chimes. Sound Journeys will offer a unique auditory escape, allowing you to unwind and recharge through the healing frequencies of sound.
Discover the Zen of Zentangle
Alongside sound healing, I’m excited to offer Zentangle Classes, a form of meditative drawing that emphasizes mindfulness and creativity. Zentangle art is a soothing way to express ourselves and a powerful tool for stress relief. These classes will provide a peaceful retreat from the everyday hustle, guiding you through patterns and designs that calm the mind and soothe the soul.
Photography and Beyond
While we are expanding our horizons, my dedication to creating stunning, meaningful portraits remains unchanged. ArtCafe Photography will continue to provide the high-quality, professional photography services and stunning artwork you know and love, now complemented by our new healing arts offerings.
Whether it’s capturing a family milestone or finding tranquility through art and sound, we are here to support your journey under the new hat of ArtCafe Studios.
Join Us in 2025
Adding these healing arts services will bring a new dimension of care and connection to our community. ArtCafe Studios is committed to nurturing not only the moments I capture through my lens but also the well-being of the families we serve.
We invite you to join us in embracing this exciting new chapter. Whether you are returning to refresh your family portraits or exploring our new offerings, ArtCafe Studios is ready to welcome you with open arms and a calm spirit.
