As a new mom, I experienced a strong case of post-partum anxiety. I vividly remember multiple instances where I wanted to crawl under my desk and hide from the world during those first few months. I’d often burst into tears or feel like a giant tsunami wave was crashing over me. Panic attacks were frequent, and sleeping became impossible. My life had changed overnight and I wasn’t sure if I could handle it.
With help from my family and researching natural coping methods, I’m thankful to say I worked through it. To my surprise meditation, breathing techniques and mindfulness actually started to work. Bringing myself to the present moment and becoming aware and stopping my spiraling mind before it took over were key to ending the cycle.
The most impactful skill I learned, that worked for me personally, was meditation through art. Painting and illustrating allowed me an escape by channeling my thoughts towards solving creative problems. Lolli and Lamb provided a soothing world I could go to when my thoughts wouldn’t stop – a place that was just mine.
When I began to get the hang of parenting and allowed myself to be present in the beautiful moments it provided, the incessant thoughts calmed down. Transformative growth is hard, and I realize that’s what I was going through. Becoming a Mom helped me grow as a person in ways I never thought possible. I’m so grateful for my daughter and this tough period of life because it showed me what I’m capable of and helped me become the person I am today.
I hope you enjoy my artwork and find that it can transport you to a place of calm and peacefulness just as it does for me while I create it.
Thank you for your support on this journey. I’m excited to see where it takes us!