October Self Portrait Challenge hosted by Kas at The Humble Lion
Day 1 - Exhale, create an image of you exhaling
For this prompt, I was excited to start the challenge off with such a calming prompt. Typically, a challenge feels like something you’d need to get ready for, maintain energy and use a lot of momentum. I really enjoyed how this series was more slow paced, open ended and paired with journaling prompts. Because of the full moon later in the week, it felt aligned to begin the challenge by considering what I want to exhale, or release, and focus on presence.
Day 2 - Fear, create an image showing where fear comes up for you
For this prompt, I chose to portray my fear of being seen. Having my hair up always makes me feel vulnerable and exposed. Although these things are not inherently bad, I’ve been conditioned to believe that making myself small is the right thing to do. That being opinionated, outspoken, bold and taking up space is like bragging. I know in my mind that these things are not true, but often times, my body still believes they are. Lately, I’ve been considering cutting my hair short again to practice being seen.
Day 3 - Rituals, create an image of a favorite daily, weekly or monthly ritual that you have and look forward to.
Health has always been important to me. A lot of my views around exercise come from my mom who was a health teacher for over 20 years. I grew up knowing the importance of moving my body, getting sunlight and challenging my body on a weekly basis. I look forward to my morning and afternoon walks mainly for the mental benefits and part of my routine. I also enjoy exploring my neighborhood walking paths, seeing cute dogs and people watching haha
Day 4 - Comfort, create an image of you doing something that brings you comfort as the seasons change and get colder.
Making tea was not always a comfort of mine. I never really ever drank tea until I met one of my best friends, Amber, who drinks tea multiple times a day every day. She introduced me to herbal teas 5 years ago and I have been hooked ever since. I’ve never been a coffee drinker because the caffeine actually puts me to sleep haha, so my favorite teas are; bengal spice, decaf earl grey and raspberry hibiscus. Having a warm drink on a cold day is such a comforting ritual that helps me slow down, be present and patient as I wait for the temperature to be just right to drink. I especially love this comforting drink at night with all of my moody lights on, there are no overhead lights allowed past sunset in my house haha
Day 5 - Pathways
I spend a lot of time driving every week. I don’t necessarily enjoy it, but it offers me space and time to listen to my favorite podcasts and music.
If I’m driving somewhere, it usually means I have work. So I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to take photos and do work that I love.
These self portrait challenges are something I love to obsess over. Even when I have endless sessions to edit, I will always make time for this ♥️ thank you Kas for such an awesome and collaborative project
