Creativity was literally my medicine.
After life changing illnesses, including brain surgery, forced me to slow down, I realised that the way I'd always handled stress, by doing more and pushing harder, no longer worked.
As a teacher and education adviser for 24 years, I was used to giving my all to others. But when my health meant I needed to step away, I had to learn a completely new way of approaching my own self care.
That's when I found mindful art. I turned to simple, abstract techniques, not to make perfect art, but to let the process quieten my mind. The more I created, the calmer my nervous system became and the more my symptoms reduced.
It wasn't about being artistic. It was about being present in the moment. Creativity was literally my medicine.
It wasn't about being artistic. It was about being present in the moment.
What I do now
Through Mind Unwind, I'm passionate about helping others feel that same sense of calm, and sharing creative tools for wellbeing at home and at work.
My workshops are designed to show that mindfulness doesn't have to mean sitting still or meditating for hours. It can be playful, colourful and completely accessible, even if you've never picked up a paintbrush before.
Alongside workshops across Hampshire, I work with organisations including NHS teams and schools, drawing on 8 years spent training professionals from headteachers to support staff.