Studio Notes: Stepping Away to Move Forward

Hi friends,

I hope you’ve had a lovely April. If you're in the northern hemisphere, I hope you're soaking up the beauty of spring and all the blooming flowers. And if you're in the southern hemisphere like me, I hope you're enjoying the cooler days and the rich, warm tones of autumn unfolding.

As I write this, I'm actually on holiday — something I've really been looking forward to the past few months. But if I'm honest, it's also brought up some difficult feelings. I've found myself fighting with the worry that if I step away from my business, even for a short while, it might just quietly sink without me. It’s made me realise that I’ve been in this internal war for a long time — constantly debating whether I should use every spare moment to work on my art business or allow myself to rest. And when I do rest, I feel guilty that I’m not doing enough.

Do you ever feel this way, too?

This is not the life I want to lead — always questioning whether I’ve “earned” rest or joy. I’ve also been feeling creatively blocked for a little while, and I can’t help but think these things are connected.

Recently, I came across a few beautiful reminders that came at the right time:

“I’ve been thinking about how powerful it is to step away in order to move forward.”

and

"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day… is by no means a waste of time."

Rest isn’t something to earn — it’s essential. It’s a birthright. It’s where new ideas and clarity are born. I just need to take my own advice.

So, while I’ll still be lightly checking in — writing this month's email, slowly updating my shop, and sharing inspiration on Pinterest — I’m giving myself permission to slow down. To wake naturally. To nourish my body and mind. And most of all, to be present and enjoy this time with my partner.

I hope this note inspires you to take a step back too — to slow down, to give yourself permission to rest, and maybe even to spend some quiet moments in nature. Sometimes, that’s exactly where the next spark begins. 🌿🌼