Some people run, walk, swim, and even knit or read to clear their mind and get into their zen space. I try to meditate and relax, even write gratitude lists just to get close to my zen space. Lately nothing has worked. I never thought I was a person that had anxiety but I could feel how tense and worried I was all the time- maybe it’s been the broken heart I have been nursing, the loss of my dog, stress of work, or maybe the combination. But that heaviness I feel every day is exhausting.
I found my zen two days ago while standing in front of the glory hole, focusing only on turning my pipe. My only job in the hotshop is to pay attention to the molten glass and keeping it on center. I am forced to focus on my body, the movements, the rhythm, relaxing my jacks, and controlling my breath. I found my zen two days in a row – my essential oils, fancy teas, and crystals couldn’t get me there but the company of Emma and my favorite pipe did. I have logged 12 hours this week in the hotshop so far – and totally worth it. What have I made? Tidal balls. I needed to. I craved the simpleness, the success, and the repetitiveness of making them. The focus and control I was forced to maintain when the soft color mixed with the hard color…
I look forward to another day in the hotshop where I can lose my thoughts, listen to music, and literally feel warm all day!
