Hitting Pause: What a Forced Sabbatical Has Taught Me About Slowing Down
If you had told me a few months ago that I would willingly spend weeks in bed doing next to nothing, I probably would have laughed. For anyone who knows me, my life is a whirlwind of family life, studio time, hands-on creating, and keeping the gears turning in my business.
Then came surgery.
When you are forced to step away from your normal routine of work, crafting, and non-stop momentum, it feels jarring at first. But looking back now that I am sitting in the middle of my fourth week of a six-to-eight-week recovery, I realize this was a profound pause that my mind and body desperately needed.
The Ultimate Support System
Recovery like this isn’t a solo journey, and I have been carried through every step of it by an incredible village and I'm so grateful.
My mom stayed with us for the first two weeks, stepping in seamlessly to help manage everything. Between my mom, my husband, and my daughter, I have been treated like absolute royalty. They have helped me get around, navigated the treacherous territory of stairs, prepared endless meals, kept the household running, and driven me to all of my post-op appointments. Beyond my roof, my friends have been amazing, regularly checking in to see how I'm feeling and sending love my way.
And let’s talk about my shadow: my dog has not left my side for a single moment this entire time. Talk about the definition of loyalty. Whenever I'm resting, I have a warm, furry guardian right beside me.
Streaming, Reading, and a Little Bit of Magic
How do you fill the days when your hands can't dive into major clay projects?
My days have settled into a cozy rhythm of resting in bed or on the couch, diving into plenty of streaming shows and movies, and catching up on reading—both for pure fun and for some low-stress business education.
Even better? This week has marked a major milestone: I’ve finally been able to pick up my crochet hooks again! I'm taking it slow and starting with small, manageable projects like my chunky yarn scrunchies. Being able to create just a little bit feels like opening a window to let fresh air into the room.
Thanking My Body
I know I will eventually get back into my regular routine, and I'm excited for that day to come. But right now, I am truly appreciating the art of doing nothing. There’s no hustle, no stressing over the daily to-do list, and zero pressure.
Sometimes life forces you to hit the brakes so hard that you have no choice but to listen. I'm taking this time to fully focus on healing. My body is doing hard work behind the scenes, and I know that in the end, it will thank me for the rest.
What is the one thing you know you need to slow down and rest for, but you're waiting for life to force you to do it?
About Studio Art 101 At Studio Art 101, we believe that every handmade piece tells a story. From our hands to your home, we focus on the beauty of "slow craft"—creating intentional, whimsical items that bring joy to the everyday. Based in Maryland, we are dedicated to building a community of makers and dreamers. Join us on our journey of creativity, sign up here, follow along on FB, IG or Tik Tok, or explore our latest collection in the shop.