Nature’s Cycles for Creative Growth
What the Pacific’s balance of life and death can teach about creativity.
A PACIFIC EQUINOX
I live in the wilds. The unbridled cliffs and forests of the Pacific coast. Of crashing waves and the tallest trees. There exist treasures of both life and death here. Butterflies, coyotes, rattlesnakes, and roses. Bones, pelt, skat, and duff. A trip to the beach always illuminates this dichotomy.
Yesterday morning I discovered a sea lion carcass, several washed up shore birds, many feathers, kelp, and bones. I always photograph the bones.
No pause exists between life and death in this place. Loud and quiet. They happen all at once. In what is found ashore and what drifts and jumps and plunges in deep waters. The Pacific is winter and summer all at once.
A close friend of mine is a van life guy. He’s from Chicago and we talk about seasons and summers and what summer doesn’t mean to me living in a somewhat seasonless climate. He has learned to chase my summer. To become a nomad, uprooting when the light shifts. Moving toward my coast, to lap in the warmth just a bit longer until it turns less golden. There is little warning from Mother Nature here to slow down in the darkness of winter or begin to bloom in the warmth of spring. Seasonal shifts are subtle. We look for clues elsewhere.
He tells me of the life he sees in the wilderness, in the forest. Then to be confronted with death and quiet and times of unrest by the animals and the breeze. The seasons are pushed up against each other here, we agreed.
A cycle. Unbroken, constant, evident. Life and death in every single moment. A tragedy that is not held to time, but one that Mother Nature screams forth each day, asking us to choose instead of demanding us to shift.
Creating in this climate is different. The summer stretches long. Awakening the driven spirit, wanting with desire, ideas, and inspiration that requires stamina. Absent of mindfulness one could press on. Continue in output with little reverence for the slowing down and receivership the cooler months invite. And the necessity this invitation bears on our creative process.
Some abide. A noticing of the subtle shifts to slow down in the shorter days. With just a little less light, and a little less heat. The rain stopping us cold, keeping us in. Slowing us down.
Others pace themselves. Grabbing moments of death and aliveness despite the light, Mother Nature’s call. Spark and silence. The all at once of it. These moments in the bones and duff, the sheltered cliffs of the Pacific paired with the life, the luminous breath of the ever moving deep waters. Reminders in the moment of the dichotomy of it all. Reminders to slow down, if even for a minute to look, rest, and receive.
Creatives seek the death and life in all places. Renewal in all seasons.
For those who chase the light and those who don’t.
Creative Process Contemplations:
1. How do the natural cycles of life and death mirror your own creative process? Where do you see ebbs and flows in your work, and can you honor those shifts or push through them?
2. In nature, death often leads to renewal—how can you apply this concept to your own creative journey? What ideas, projects, or habits need to be let go of in order to make room for new inspiration?
3. In what ways do you “chase the light” in your creative work, and how could embracing the quieter, darker moments help you develop a more sustainable creative practice and process?
xxx
LAS
IN HARMONY
If you’ve been here for sometime now, it will come as no surprise to you that I’ve fallen for another Irish band. The kiddo introduced me to Fontaine’s D.C. a few years ago and they have quickly become one of those bands who I can switch seamlessly between albums and enjoy in multitudes. Their new album Romance is definitely a little more polished than previous albums - it is clear upon listening that it does have a bit of a commercial production style behind it. That being said, it’s really, really good.
They are a quirky group, borrowing from an early 2000’s Y2K aesthetic and sounding like a mix between Oasis deep cuts, Depeche Mode, and at times, Morrissey - with and without the Smiths. I didn't include the first release from Romance - it is a song that on first listen I hated - there is a deep inhaling noise through the chorus that to be honest startled me. But it was hard to come around to a new kind of sound in music and ultimately I turned a corner on the song, appreciating the choice. Bug is one of my favorite tracks on the album. It is a nice mix of their raw sound with just a bit of production polish. If you like it, check out their previous albums. They are a bit more raw and untouched if you are into that sort of thing.
I hope you enjoy it too. Hit listen to get a taste.
And hey, some of you asked for all the In Harmony songs as a playlist. If that's you, here it is.
SOLAR TRANSIT:
In Human Design, a solar transit shifts our energy as the Sun moves through Gates; use it to tap into fresh creative inspiration.
9-26-24
Gate 18
Gate of Correction
On September 26, the sun gracefully traverses Gate 18, known as the Gate of Correction. During this celestial transit, you're invited to embark on a deeply introspective voyage of self-discovery. Gate 18, the Gate of Correction, presents an opportunity for profound introspection into your ability to discern the right timing for sharing insights aimed at enhancing or rectifying systems and patterns. It prompts a contemplation of whether your motivation for sharing these insights stems from a genuine desire to assist others or merely to assert your correctness. Your most aligned self is one that can offer insights imbued with joy, solutions, and connection, rather than solely seeking validation for being right.
This transit encourages you to recognize that while being right may offer momentary satisfaction, it may not always serve your highest energetic interests. Instead, the gate invites you to consider the value of patience and discernment in the timing of sharing your wisdom. Your insights hold immense value, and they are most impactful when delivered at a time when others are receptive and prepared to implement them, propelling collective progress and advancement.
In essence, Gate 18 reminds you to embody patience and wisdom in sharing your insights, prioritizing the greater good over individual validation. It calls for an alignment with the flow of energy, ensuring that your contributions foster growth, harmony, and forward movement for all involved.
Here are some journaling prompts to deepen your understanding and engagement with this transit:
1. Reflect on a time when you shared insights with others. Did you do so to genuinely help them or to validate your own knowledge? How did this intention impact the outcome of your interaction?
2.Explore instances where you waited for the right timing to share your insights versus instances where you impulsively voiced your opinions. What differences did you observe in the reception and effectiveness of your insights?
3.Consider the value of patience in sharing your wisdom. How can you cultivate patience and discernment to ensure your insights are received and implemented when others are ready to embrace them?
4.Imagine a scenario where you offer insights that lead to positive change and advancement for a group or system. How does this vision inspire you to prioritize the timing and delivery of your wisdom for maximum impact?
Gate 18, the Gate of Correction in Human Design, prompts introspection into the timing of sharing insights—encouraging patience and discernment. It advocates for offering wisdom that fosters joy, solutions, and connection, rather than seeking validation through being right.
TAPPING PROMPT
Do you know about Tapping? It can be an effective addition to energy work and nervous system regulation. Many of my Mentorship clients include Tapping as part of their daily ritual. You can learn more about Tapping and how to do it by hitting the button bellow.
And of course comment with your questions!
EFT - Emotional Freedom Technique Tapping Prompt for this transit.
“Even though I am excited and driven to share my insights, I trust that waiting for the right time increases their impact and I deeply and completely love and accept myself.”
Have a great week exploring these transits! Ready to learn more about your Human Design? Reach out and let me know! I’d love to guide you.
AUTUMNAL EQUINOX
The autumnal equinox marks a balance of light and dark; use it to reflect, reset, and realign your creative intentions.
9-22-24
As the Earth gracefully tilts on its axis, we find ourselves once again at the Autumnal Equinox. This celestial event signals a delicate balance in nature, as day and night hold equal sway over our lives. In Human Design, this equinox activates Gate 46, the gate of physical embodiment and love of the body. It reminds us that our creative energy flows through the body, urging us to reconnect with the joy of physical presence. It's an invitation to ground ourselves, reflect on our well-being, and nurture the vessel through which our creativity emerges.
Astrologically, the Sun enters Libra during this time, ruler of the 7th house of relationships and partnerships. Libra’s energy is all about balance, harmony, and beauty, making this the perfect season to assess how we show up for others in our collaborations and creative projects. The equinox marks a midpoint in the astrological year, calling for a reassessment of relationships and inviting us to align our inner world with the external partnerships that fuel our creative expression.
In this moment of equilibrium, we are reminded of the ongoing cycle of life, the dichotomy of light and darkness. It's a time to acknowledge the passing of six months since the vernal equinox, marking our journey through half of the year. For those of us in the northern hemisphere, the Autumnal Equinox brings with it the subtle chill of approaching winter. Leaves transform into fiery shades of red and gold, and the air carries the promise of change. It’s a season of introspection as we prepare to embrace the quietude of winter, or draw inspiration from the vibrant hues of summer’s memory.
As the Sun gracefully reminds us, let us pause to contemplate the natural cadence of existence. The Autumnal Equinox beckons us to be present, to acknowledge the beauty in the ebb and flow of life, and to find our own equilibrium amidst its ever-shifting tides. Just like the Sun, whose warmth and radiance endure even when hidden behind clouds, we too possess an inner light and energy. Unwavering and resilient. The Autumnal Equinox is a gentle reminder that, regardless of the challenges life presents, our essence remains constant, ready to guide our path.
As we celebrate this equinox, let us honor the unwavering presence of our inner light, reflect on how we relate to our creative collaborations, and embrace the changing seasons. May this transitional time inspire you to reflect on your own balance, radiate warmth and wisdom, and step confidently into the evolving creativity of your journey.
Equinox Journal Contemplations:
1. What aspects of my life do I want to illuminate and nourish as the days grow shorter?
2. What am I prepared to release and let go of, allowing space for new growth and transformation?
3. How can I embody the lessons of this autumnal season while remaining receptive to its wisdom and gifts?
4. What intentions will I set for the transitional period between the Autumnal Equinox and the Winter Solstice, as I move from light to darkness?
LIBRA SEASON
In astrology, planetary movements influence our energy and mindset; use them to explore your creative process within the cosmic cycles.
9-23-24 - 10-22-24
Libra Season ushers in a period of harmony and partnership, as the air cardinal sign invites us to seek balance, love, and beauty in all aspects of life. Ruled by Venus and in the 7th House, Libra emphasizes the importance of relationships, companionship, and collaboration. Libra energy encourages a cultivation of diplomacy, refinement, and fairness in interactions with others. In the realm of creativity and the arts, Libra inspires an appreciation of beauty and the desire to create harmonious works that resonate with others. Libra Season invites an embrace of an inner peaceful warrior, mediating conflicts and seeking justice and equality in partnerships. Planet Venus, as the signifier of love and connection, prompts an exploration of values and desires in relationships, fostering connections that bring love, beauty, and harmony to life. Libra’s magnetic energy guides us towards creating love, beauty, and harmony in our personal and professional partnerships.
The collaborative, harmonious and beautiful energy of Libra season cultivates diplomatic and fair-minded approaches to negotiations and decision-making, seeking win-win solutions that benefit all parties involved. Teamwork and partnership, and the strengths of others help achieve collective goals. A focus on fostering harmonious relationships with clients, customers, and colleagues, emphasizes the value of fairness and mutual respect. This Season’s appreciation for beauty and refinement can enhance your branding and marketing efforts, creating visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing content that resonates with your audience. Draw inspiration from the Libra energy love of art and culture, exploring themes of balance, symmetry, and elegance in your artistic endeavors. Collaborate with others to bring diverse perspectives and talents to your creative projects, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion. By embracing Libra's energy of partnership and beauty, you can cultivate a more harmonious and fulfilling experience in your work, business, and creative pursuits.
Here are some journaling prompts to deepen your understanding and engagement this season:
Balance in Relationships
Libra season invites reflection on the balance of give and take in your relationships.
Where in your personal and professional relationships do you feel harmony, and where do you feel an imbalance? What can you do to restore equilibrium in these connections, ensuring fairness for both yourself and others?
Collaboration and Partnership
Libra’s energy is about teamwork and collaboration, enhancing creative and business pursuits.
How can you embrace collaboration in your creative projects or work? What strengths can you bring to a partnership, and how can you better value and utilize the strengths of others to achieve shared goals?
Beauty and Creativity
With Venus ruling Libra, beauty and art are emphasized this season, inspiring creativity that resonates with others.
How can you incorporate more beauty, elegance, or refinement into your creative work or professional life? In what ways can you use symmetry, balance, or aesthetics to create a more harmonious and pleasing outcome?
Diplomacy and Fairness
Libra’s diplomatic energy encourages fairness and peaceful conflict resolution.
In moments of conflict or tension, how can you become a mediator, bringing fairness and justice to the situation? What strategies can you use to ensure that all voices are heard and that solutions benefit everyone involved?
