Creative Expression for Resilience: Art Journaling for Healthcare Workers - Happy Time Craftcast 35

 Hey there, friends! If you caught this week’s episode of Joleen's Happy Time Craft Cast, you already know it was an absolute delight. But for those who missed it, don’t worry—I’m here to gush about all the incredible moments we had with the amazing Natalie Lou! Natalie is not just a nurse and artist, but also the founder of the Reflective Collective, and let me tell you, she dropped so much wisdom about the magic of creativity and its power to heal. Seriously, you’re going to want to grab a cozy blanket and settle in for this one.

From the very start, Natalie had me hooked with her story of blending her nursing background with art to create a space for people to process emotions, combat burnout, and find resilience. Her Reflective Collective is all about fostering creativity and connection, and I couldn’t stop nodding along because, well, that’s my love language too! One of my favorite parts of our chat was hearing about her sun-themed bookboard collage. She talked about the challenges of working with color theory and the joy of piecing it all together—truly an artist’s journey. It was inspiring to see how she tackles the creative process with so much intention.

And then there was Kintsugi. Oh, my heart. If you don’t know, Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, and Natalie beautifully tied it into her philosophy of life and art. It’s all about embracing imperfections and turning them into something stunning. Doesn’t that just make you want to pick up a paintbrush (or glue gun) and celebrate every little flaw? I know it does for me!

But wait—there’s more! We also announced something I’ve been bursting to share: the Creative Journaling for Resilience Retreat at Big Raven Farm this April. Friends, this is going to be a space where we’ll connect, create, and recharge in the most beautiful surroundings. Natalie and I designed this retreat with everyone in mind—you don’t have to be a professional artist or a healthcare worker to join. You just have to be human, curious, and ready for a little magic.

If you’re looking for something to spark your creativity or just need a moment to breathe and refocus, this episode is for you. Natalie’s practical tips for journaling, like using simple recipe cards (how genius is that?), are so easy to start. Plus, her passion for helping others find their creative spark is totally contagious.

So, what are you waiting for? If you missed the live stream, don’t worry—you can catch the full episode below. And trust me, you’ll want to watch. This conversation is packed with laughs, heart, and more “aha” moments than I can count. Go grab a coffee, hit play, and let us know what you think. Oh, and don’t forget to share how creativity has shaped your own journey—I love hearing your stories!

Until next time, keep creating and spreading those good vibes. You’re all amazing, and I can’t wait to see what you’ll create next! 🌟