In our ‘Wellness Conversations‘ series, we engage with creatives to discuss their personal experiences, insights, and approaches to well-being. Our latest conversation features Manuela Guidarini, an Italian artist based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Manuela’s work delves into the interplay between geometric forms and mental tranquility. Influenced by her Italian roots and a deep interest in architecture, her paintings are characterized by structured geometric patterns and soothing, warm tones that aim to evoke a sense of peace and stillness. She views fine art as a powerful outlet for her creativity and a medium to express her emotions. In this conversation, we explore her unique perspective on wellness, the routines she follows to maintain balance, and the ways her art practice nurtures her well-being.
What does wellness mean to you?
Based on my experience, wellness is a state of contentment achieved through a harmonious balance of physical and mental rituals. It is a process that involves consistent effort and dedication. Wellness is not just about physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. It requires discipline in various practices such as yoga, stretching, meditation, journaling, diet, and daily self-awareness. These practices foster self-analysis, self-love, and compassion, which are essential to my wellness journey.
My pursuit of wellness has evolved. In my younger years, I avidly read books on self-improvement and well-being. However, I realized that understanding wellness intellectually was not enough; it required practical application and real-life practice. It felt like reading a lot about running but fearing the moment you put on your shoes and hit the road. Therefore, I forced myself to engage in wellness practices, and they are now (mostly) part of my daily routine.
What daily rituals or practices do you engage in to foster balance and well-being?
I have a few daily rituals and practices that I follow. Firstly, yoga and stretching are integral parts of my routine. They help me maintain physical flexibility and strength while also providing mental clarity and relaxation. These physical practices are complemented by daily morning meditation sessions, which allow me to cultivate mindfulness and reduce stress.
Journaling is another crucial aspect of my daily routine. It serves as a tool for self-reflection and self-awareness, helping me process my thoughts and emotions. Practicing self-awareness throughout the day is also important. I make a conscious effort to stay present and mindful in my interactions and activities. This heightened awareness helps me respond to situations with greater calm and clarity.
I also strive to eat as healthily as possible. However, I believe that too much discipline and depriving oneself can lead to imbalance, so I don’t miss any opportunity to enjoy little pleasures like good food, company, and a flexible schedule.
When you travel for work or leisure, do you find it challenging to maintain your daily wellness practices? If so, how do you adapt to ensure you stay committed to your well-being while away from your usual routine?
When I travel for work or leisure, I generally do not find it challenging to maintain my daily wellness practices. My approach to wellness is designed to be flexible and adaptable, requiring minimal resources. As long as I have a floor or a bed to sit on, I can continue my yoga and meditation practices. These activities do not demand any special equipment, making them easy to perform in various settings.
For journaling, if I don’t have access to a physical notebook, I utilize a technique recommended by my spiritual teacher: writing in the air. By holding my hands as if I were writing on paper, I engage in the act of journaling mentally, which is surprisingly effective. When it comes to food, I try to minimize my intake if I cannot find nutritious options while away, but as I mentioned, flexibility is key to maintaining long-term health.
During times when you’re facing challenges or experiencing a low mood, is there a specific quote, piece of advice, or song that helps to raise your spirits and motivate you?
During challenging times or when experiencing a low mood, I find inspiration in a piece of advice from Elizabeth Gilbert. She once said that we often perceive all emotional challenges as physical threats. She shared her experience of sitting still and realizing that her perception of the threat was solely in her mind. This reflection led her to recognize that she was physically safe and that nothing was harming her. This realization helped her reset her mental state to a calm and peaceful one.
I often apply this method when facing my own challenges. By pausing and assessing my surroundings, I remind myself that I am physically safe and that much of the stress is a mental construct. This practice helps me shift my perspective and regain a sense of calm and control.
Additionally, when experiencing a low mood, I remind myself that “this too shall pass.” Embracing this thought allows me to let go of defensiveness and open my heart to new possibilities. This openness helps me feel immediate relief, creating space for positivity and new opportunities. These practices not only raise my spirits but also provide a framework for navigating difficult times with grace and resilience.
INTERVIEW ABHISHEK SINGH
FEATURED PHOTO MANUELA GUIDARINI
( left to right on web, top to down on mobile )
Artworks by Manuela Guidarini: “Composition in Green No.1,” “Composition in Green No.2,” “Nocturnal No.1,” and “Nocturnal No.2”