Ignition of the Mind and Body

We know life can be a bit hectic sometimes, and during these periods, it’s incredibly difficult to prevent our minds from wandering and remaining present. Whether you’re distracted by worry, excitement or anything in between, learning techniques or experiencing practices that encourage you to remain present and keep perspective allows both the mind and body the necessary rest for creativity, clear thoughts and motivation.

For guests visiting Blackberry Farm, we offer some activity options that are specially-curated to encourage mindfulness and peace. Creative Presence Watercolor Meditation is the perfect blend of individuality and assisted guidance.

“The hope with our meditative watercolor experience is to offer space, tools and guidance for the guest to experience the journey of meditation through breathwork, movement, watercolor and reflection,” said Wellness Manager Meghan Henley. “This type of meditation cultivates the creation of presence by letting go of any desired outcome.” By not being focused on the end result, guests are able to focus instead on the process and their own expression.

During Creative Presence, our meditation teachers gently guide the experience without offering too much direction, allowing you to create freely. Mindfully painting means being fully present with each brushstroke and color choice, discovering the peace of being engaged with the creative process without focusing on anything else. “The other guides and I incorporate painting practices to promote presence such as using the non-dominant hand, closing the eyes to truly feel a brush stroke, allowing the brush to “dance” across the page, and sometimes even journaling about their experience over top of the painting itself. We strive to cultivate a playful and curious mindset in hopes to create a lasting shift in perspective.”

You can explore recreating a meditative watercolor activity for yourself at home. Choose a comfortable space, collect some supplies and allow yourself to interact with your canvas freely. Remember that the most important part of the exercise is not focusing on an end result. Throw out any thoughts of perfectionism and let your creativity flow freely.

Meghan also recommends a morning ritual as a great at-home mindfulness practice, similar to the Rising Ritual offered at the Farm. The goal is to choose a time each morning that is dedicated to setting intentions and inspiring. It can include anything from breathwork practice to energize the mind and body to a 20-minute dynamic yoga flow to get the body moving. If you’ve never tried motivational breathwork, Meghan recommends the 5-3-3 breath technique. This practice starts with five deep inhales through the nose and exhales through the mouth. You will want to completely fill the lungs for the first five breaths. Follow this with three very rapid breaths; again, in through the nose and out through the mouth. You will finish the round with three exaggerated inhales and exhale with loud audible sighs. Don’t be afraid to make noise – the louder the better.

Click here to learn what members of our Wellness team incorporate into their own morning rituals. It may inspire you to try something new!