02: Where to find inspiration outside of the Internet

Now more than ever, we need to seek for creative inspiration in the real world

Last winter, I was feeling creatively stuck. Maybe it was because the days were so short and we had no sun in weeks, or maybe I was spending too much time on Pinterest, seeking inspiration in other people’s perfectly curated lives. From that feeling of discomfort, this list was born, and it is the most successful piece in my newsletter so far. That got me thinking that many of us crave connection to the real world and want to find inspiration outside social media and the Internet. Today, I bring you a new compilation of places where you can look for inspiration if you are tired of seeking it in the same corners of social media.

1. Fantasy Meditation

Guided meditation has been a huge help in my life in overwhelming and stressful times —specially fantasy meditation. I have listened to Let Your Breath Become a Flower by Raveena dozens of times and it always takes me to a different dimension, where everything is beautiful, and serene and magical. InsighTimer also has a lot of fun free meditations, that according to their website, can ‘transport you to magical realms and dreamlike states, enhancing relaxation and creativity through vivid storytelling and imaginative visualization’. I am hooked.

2. Bird Watching

My dad gifted me a pair of binoculars last Christmas and now that Spring is here, I have been able to wander outside, taking a closer peak at the eagle that roams around the park near our house, or the nests of the families of Cormorants that live under the Burrard Bridge here in Vancouver. So far, bird watching has taught me the importance of stillness and silence to be able to really appreciate the surroundings and creatures around me. You don’t even need a pair of binoculars to appreciate birds and other creatures around you. You just need to forget about your phone for a minute, open your eyes wide, and pay attention.

My partner back in January, eagle watching in Squamish

3. Oracle Decks and Cards

I highly recommend pulling out a card or two a day from an oracle of your choice. I recently got the affirmations card set by Yumi and I love it so much. Every night before going to sleep I try to take out a card and use it as a journaling prompt. If I am too tired at night, I take it out in the morning, and it helps me set an intention for the day. It’s a nice ritual I have been incorporating in my days that makes my life more special and makes me feel connected to the greater universe. Something I believe is very important to keep the inspiration juices flowing.

snippet of a video I was too shy to include here lol

My yoga studio also has this beautiful deck that has thought me a lot about the energy of different animals and how I can learn from it to live a more expansive life. I always look forward to pulling out a card after my hot yoga class and connect my practice to the learnings of the cards.

4. Illustrated Books Section at the Library/Bookstore

When I don’t really want to read or feed the intellectual part of my brain, reaching for a book with beautiful illustrations or photography always inspires me. Children’s books also help me when I am feeling creatively blocked or overwhelmed. The color combinations, the characters, the textures inside. I am also working on building my own little collection of children’s books at home. The first one in my collection is Invisible Things by Andy J Pizza and Sophie Miller. Next time you are feeling creatively stuck, make a trip to the library, grab some books that spark your attention and take notes.

On a side note: When I was a kid I remember watching Barney and seeing how the library in the show had a sliding ladder. I still dream of having one of my own some day and invite all my little nieces and nephews.

5. Photo Walks